Studio with indoor swing.
I recently had the honor of visiting and speaking with New York expat interior designer, trend spotter and creative enthusiast, Susan Manrao. We met at her West Hollywood studio where I was given a guided tour which included pieces by artists she showcases and collaborates with, and whose work is absolutely unique and special. I frantically snapped off these photos like a kid in a candy store.
Below are images that illustrate both a collection of her work and, what Susan believes is absolutely trending in the world of interior design – a harmonizing of art and decorative, custom-crafted decor. I really thought the warmth of the hand-worked woods, the meticulously sculpted metals, and art-melding-with-decor pieces using uniquely indigenous materials were just “one-of-a-kind” wonderful. I also enjoyed the vignettes of vintage items as well as the high-end reusing of ordinary objects.
With all this being said, I thought you’d like a look-see yourselves. Now, grab a snack or a cup o’ Joe, kick up your feet, and enjoy the tour.
Hand-crafted swing seat.
Silver painted walnuts.
Hand crafted laser guns made from old gas pump handles.
Crushed metal stool.
Rubber tire rug.
Rubber tire rug- closeup.
Spool stools.
Design books and vintage shoe form.
Vintage adding machine.
Hand-crafted TV surround from Hawaii.
Side view of TV surround.
Indigenous feather tree.
Feather tree detail closeup.
All photography by Skaie Knox, HomeJelly