This past week I had the absolute pleasure of spending time with one of my favorite Louisiana designers, Ty Larkins, who's FABULOUS shop is located in Baton Rouge, just under an hour from my home. From the moment I popped my head in the door, Ty made me feel as if we were old pals, certainly not new acquaintances––we just chatted and chatted for what seemed like an eternity! The conversation was so riveting and Ty so engaging that even the threat of 5 o'clock traffic couldn't peel me away––on my drive home, I reflected on what a gracious gentleman; adept designer; fantastic conversationalist and consummate host Mr. Larkins is. If you are ever in Baton Rouge, treat yourself and stop in for a visit.
Years ago, Grand Dame blogger Joni Webb of Cote de Texas featured Ty and myself on a blog post of her's titled
To be quite honest I was very bashful for images of my former home and a few small projects that I had completed as a neo-designer to be showcased for all the world to see––not to mention being featured in the same post under one of my biggest design-crushes almost made me so nervous I wanted to back out!. Besides being a complete wreck over those small details, I was in the middle of packing and moving to our current home and had to SCRAMBLE to remotely attempt to stylize the photos ;) I'm so glad I didn't chicken out because then I may not be able to have made the connection with Ty if not for Joni and her wonderful post on us :)
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Image via House Beautiful
Ty has been on the fast track to success––in five short years, he has transitioned from practicing law to interior design, somehow managed to: raise twin daughters, become published in House Beautiful, open a storefront and build a quite successful design business––all while maintaining a very humble presence about himself. Wildly refreshing, don't you say?
It all started for Ty and his wife here at their gorgeous home they built a few short years ago. What a stunner! The proportions are exquisite, the detailing not missing any thought, and the implementation of historical accuracy made my heart sing! It actually reminds me of my home, but with more Georgian features than ours. I am in love with the portico and the wide, linear steps spanning the front!! What a wonderful entrance!
Image via House Beautiful
The courtyard is a sight to behold. Love what appears to be an architectural element used as the table base here––gorgeous!
Image via House Beautiful
Image via House Beautiful
Image via House Beautiful
Image via House Beautiful
Image via House Beautiful
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Ty's Lovely Shop and Studio
Ty's shop is housed in a beautiful Arts and Crafts Bungalow that he completely gutted and restored to perfection. The feel is a touch masculine, very clean, current and modern but incredibly warm and welcoming.
This beautiful seating arrangement greets you as you first enter––the chairs beg for you to sit on them as your eye eagerly travels from one beautiful object to another.
Image via Ty Larkins
Notice that fantastic industrial beam with the wonderful paneled columns! Ty said that when he bought the structure, the building was such a departure from it's original glory and had been badly modified from it's proper detailing and layout, he had to completely reconfigure the whole space and start anew. I'd say he did this old beauty justice, for certain!
That chest is breathtaking! Masculine, clean and refined.
That mirror nearly took my breath away! Ty's impeccable taste gives way for a incredible selection of statement accessories.
I was longue-ing to lay upon that chaise longue ;)
This bench served as the host chair for the dining table. It looked wonderful!
Isn't this place SPECTACULAR??????? You can see why it was so easy to melt my day away! When you're surrounded by such beauty and enjoyable conversation, you never want to leave!
I wish Ty all the best and know that he has been on this steadily upward trajectory that is SO well deserved because he's a true gem of a man with unwavering and impeccable taste, determination and kindness. I can't wait to visit with him again soon!
Visit his website to see more images of his great talent!
xoxo,
Andrea
7 comments:
What a fabulous post. This fellow really knows what good design is. Beautiful details and I can find more than one item in each photo of his shop that I could
die for.
Please tell me what issue of House Beautiful these home images were in. I must find it! I have a deep design crush on this man. :) I love the way he uses contemporary art with classic pieces. As an artist, I have to say that few know how to do this correctly.
Hey Diane! Thanks for the comment! Will you reveal your art to us soon?? I want to see!
Ty was featured in the December 2009/January 2010 issue of HB, the one with the cover of Jill Brinson's designs for a home. Here's a direct link to the PDF:
http://www.tylarkins.com/pdf/housebeautiful.pdf
So glad that you love him as much as I do! His talent is nothing short of awe-inspiring! I have a very good feeling that we will be seeing much much more of his work soon!
xoxo,
Andrea
Andrea,
Lucky you to be able to visit such an inspiring shop and chat with the mastermind behind such great design. I have the picture of his courtyard and kitchen in my "favorites" file. I would love to visit his shop someday.
Karen
Thanks Andrea! I was able to find the House Beautiful. I had it in my stash...had looked through it many times but I think he got lost in my head because of all the Jill Brinson hoopla. Her house caused quite a stir but I found it to be very trendy. Ty is classic in a new way. I am so glad you brought him to my attention.
This post was amazing... we love that courtyard! Who are we kidding?! We love it all!!
He would have to kick me out for sure! Completely stunning home and store!! He really knows how to mix things up and while still letting each piece sing.
Fabulous post! Thank you for sharing!
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