AD presents the Clever Guest Edit, a shopping series in which our favorite design enthusiasts share the products and collectibles that bring their homes to life. This week’s special guest is Sarah Sherman Samuel, multidisciplinary designer, artist and author. Get the exclusive on what’s top of her wishlist here and don’t forget to subscribe to the Clever newsletter to receive these choices directly in your inbox each month.
After witnessing the unique curation Sarah Sherman Samuel has brought to the homes of stars like Mandy Moore and Vanessa Carlton, we’re fully convinced she has the magic touch. There’s nothing the multidisciplinary designer and artist can’t do herself; when she designs a space (or the products that fill it), the limit does not exist. Sarah still maintains a sense of cohesion, but isn’t afraid to push the boundaries in modern contemporary spaces – her beautiful residence in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is an excellent example of this spirit.
As a designer, Sarah approaches the landscape of interiors from a different angle. “I’m always inspired by nature and the fundamental qualities it has when it brings those elements inside,” she told Clever. When Sarah is not on deck at SSS workshop, the virtual gallery that houses his impressive plaster work, large-scale screen-printed tapestries and vintage finds, it is busy with collaborations and clients. (Last month she launched her biggest collection ever with retailer Lulu and Georgia.)
Amidst all those moving parts, the tastemaker was generous enough to share 11 items that will “give texture and interest to your space while bringing materials straight from nature indoors.” Scroll down for all the details on her warm and textured picks.
“This lamp is made from banana leaves and even though it is small, it will not be neglected. Its sculptural form is enveloped in a texture that makes you want to reach out and touch it.
“I like to use unlacquered brass for hardware whenever I can to add a touch of warmth to a space. These finger pulls from my collection for Park Studio will patina over time telling their own natural story. .
“A tried and tested way to bring a bit of nature indoors is to pick a few stems or branches from my garden. This vase is a beautiful container to hold your cuttings.
“I like to bring soft materials to toe-to-toe touch points in the home and this wool-blend rug from my collection for Lulu and Georgia gives my feet a soft landing each morning as it rests beneath my bed.”
“The warmth of wood is always helpful in making a kitchen more welcoming with all the utilitarian items that often make up the bulk of the space. A simple touch of wood can go a long way and these mugs would do the trick.
“I often draw with classic geometric patterns, checkers, stripes and polka dots. they will never go out of style and always bring personality to a space.
“Bowls are the perfect styling tool. When in doubt, put a bowl on top. I love the wave of this wooden bowl which would look great as a fruit bowl in the kitchen or as an anchor on a coffee table.
“Natural materials on decorative lighting, like this cane-wrapped sconce, can be a little unexpected. Small details like this can make a space thoughtful and special.
“Nature is perfectly imperfect, another way to get that feeling indoors is to look for pieces that are clearly handmade. This plaster side table has the same imperfect quality that brings visual interest to all smooth man-made surfaces in most homes.
I’m looking for vases that can not only hold plants, but also function as a standalone sculpture. I love the silhouette of this one.
“If I had to splurge on one light fixture, it would be this plaster one. This one reminds me of poppy flowers but wrapped in this handmade plaster.
