Fairfield County Look - The Treasure Seekers

The Treasure Seekers

Designer Interview with Libby Morris for Giardini di Sole

Photography by ChiChi Ubiña

Libby Morris

Where did you grow up?
Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio ... a very Midwest childhood.

What influences did you have growing up that gave you your interest in the decorative arts?
My family has always had a love of antiques—my grandparents’ homes were full of unique objects—and as a child, I spent a great deal of my time at the Cincinnati Art Museum. My mother was a docent, and then a curator in the Department of Education, and I would follow her around on her tours. She gave me private tours for class projects, and I took art classes there too. I loved to wander the museum—especially the Egyptian section, the reconstructed decorative rooms from various periods of history, and the 19th and 20th century painting wing.

Tell us a bit about your business and how you started Giardini di Sole.
Though the business seems pretty straightforward on the surface—which, of course, it is—there are many other wonderful elements at play. Primarily, the cultural connections and the ability to spotlight talented artisans whose work might never gain such wide recognition, and who have interesting stories of their own. So the business journal answer is that Giardini di Sole specializes in the importation of handcrafted ceramics and stone tables exclusively from Italy. On a deeper level, we are true treasure seekers. Over the years, we have dedicated our efforts to searching out and discovering talented local artisans and craftsmen tucked away in the small towns and villages of Tuscany and Umbria. Our artisans produce ceramics and stone tables in their own carefully crafted designs and for many of them Giardini di Sole is their only representative in North America. Above all else, we are dedicated to our artisans—seeking to introduce and promote their unique creations to a wider public.

Now the story: Three friends met in Italy in 2000: one Italian, one Canadian, and one American. Our children attended the same small international school in the Castelli Romani on the outskirts of Rome. We met in the way so many women do, through our children, their school and our shared experiences. We worked together for the school and realized we made good partners—each with our own unique skills that complemented each other. Sandy returned to Vancouver in 2003, I moved to Zurich in 2004 and then to Boston in 2005. Jo is a resident of Frascati, Italy. In 2006, Sandy opened the first Giardini di Sole showroom in Vancouver with the help of Jo. Sandy realized that there was an opportunity to introduce beautiful Italian ceramics to the Vancouver area and also an opportunity to stay connected to Italy and all that she loves there. Jo loved the opportunity to work with Sandy and to learn more about the tradition of Italian ceramics. They spent much of 2004 and 2005 working together, traveling through Tuscany making contacts and establishing relationships. Jo was key to the successful achievement of this, because of her Italian heritage and her intuitive approach to conversation and negotiation. After returning to Boston, I joined them and worked to develop the business in Boston. My love of beautiful objects and a shared love of all things Italian made for a natural addition to the venture. In 2010, Giardini di Sole opened its second showroom in SOWA—the South End of Boston. We recently launched our online business.

What would you consider your design style?
It has to be exciting. I do not feel bound by any particular “style”, but rather am drawn to quality and creativity. And, I try to be true to my own instincts, rather than succumb to the overwrought advice from the experts.

Where did you study?
I attended Northwestern University in Chicago where I received a BA in Art History. I then attended the Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London in London, England where I received an MA in the History of Art. I have also worked in contemporary fine art galleries in Chicago, London and Boston.

How do you define “home?”
Simply. Wherever close family and friends are gathered together I always feel at home.

Are there any designers who have influenced your work, and how?
I suppose it would be more appropriate to ask which art and artists intrigue me the most. The list is very eclectic ranging from Quattrocento Italian masters to 20th century German Neo-Expressionists.

What are some trends we should look out for in design? Any particular colors?
“Honeysuckle” is a new color you’ll be hearing about, and also more contrasting combinations of stronger materials against pale hues. I’ve also been seeing deeper colors in stones and bricks. “Bright” seems to be sitting on the sidelines right now, which is one of my current pet peeves. I strongly feel that there is a need for more color and decoration in today’s design arena. Hate to sound so opinionated, but it can be very boring. Sure subtle is appealing, but not when it becomes nothing more than repetitive variations on a very over done theme. Too simple and safe! A little bit of decoration, drawing, and a hint of opulence could go a long way.

Giardini di Sole International
460 Harrison Ave, Suite B-17
Boston, MA 02118
857-362-7253; 973-650-9532 cell
www.giardinidisole.com
facebook: Giardinidisole
twitter: @giardinidisole