I want to move into this mid-century modern gem

Plus, unboxing: design geek edition.

Hi all!

I’m back from my family vacation: a road trip through Nevada, Utah, and Arizona featuring spectacular national parks along the way—feeling refreshed! Closer to home, the Schoolhouse team recently visited a Frank Lloyd Wright property outside of Portland that I’ll share more on soon. We try to tour architecture gems together to take in the feel of a space. Kind of like having a canvas you can start sketching designs on—without the terror of a totally blank page. Below, another inspiring mid-century home from a local architect. Plus, some more fresh finds on my mind.

Ready?

Olfactory Enigmas

Ever wonder what solar rays smell like? (Photo via Capsule Parfumerie)

As you all know, I’m a fan of unorthodox scents (see my ode to earthy basement smells here). So it was a treat to discover Capsule Parfumerie. The L.A.-based, artisanal fragrance house has several concept-driven collections, but Parallax Olfactory caught my attention for its unique descriptors that verge on the mysterious. Each scent is created as an abstract exploration, open to personal interpretation (think: “fluorescent light” and “melted citrine gemstones”). My favorite was Nimbus: the scent of “falling meteors” with notes of Blue Iris, Vibrating Violin Strings, and Violet Ozone Rays. Swoon! I love challenging our notions of fragrance by evoking emotions and experiences rather than literal scents. It's a good way to stretch your perceptions. And who doesn’t want to smell like neon apricot and rainbow resin?

Into the Fold

A dress to channel my inner Twyla Tharp. (Photo by Angelina Rennell, courtesy Beklina)

I dream of floating around all summer in these new pieces by Paris-based designer Julie Heuer—especially the kaftan. The diaphanous chiffon and watercolor floral pattern create an ethereal effect, with a little edge from the shibori pleating (each done completely by hand). I’m all here for Heuer’s contemporary take on traditional techniques. And for those who don’t know Beklina, “the original online eco-boutique,” it’s a wonderful place to find special pieces and lots of inspiration. (Bonus: the shop is from my hometown of Santa Cruz!)

Shelf Improvement

Herman Miller takes the book tote to new design geek levels.

On my recent NYC trip, I stopped by Herman Miller to take in the beautiful furniture and textiles. I came home with “Let the Sun In,” a retrospective on Alexander Girard, a celebrated mid-century architect, designer, and the founding director of Herman Miller textiles. I love how he layered patterns with geometric, figurative, or type-based motifs; his exuberant use of color; and his modern interpretation of folk art, which was a big inspiration. You can't help but smile when you flip through the pages. The team was kind enough to ship the book to Portland. It just arrived in a lovely tote made from some iconic woven upholstery fabric. Well done Herman Miller! A+ unboxing experience. (If you don’t subscribe already, I highly recommend Ground Condition by

Kelsey Keith

, brand creative director at Herman Miller.)

Rummer With a View

A series of rooms, all in conversation. (Photo at left courtesy Rummer House)

We recently shot our Roll & Hill lighting collaboration in a Portland, Oregon, home designed by the renowned Pacific North West architect Robert Rummer—which led me down a bit of a rabbit hole. Rummer (who died at the age of 97 this past January) built affordable mid-century modern homes that prioritized indoor/outdoor living, using open-concept layouts, picture windows and skylights, glass walls, interior courtyards, and natural materials to achieve that flow. In his often modestly sized (though now highly coveted) spaces, everyone has access to the outside, which is particularly important in the PNW, where winters can be dark and drizzly.

Cozy nooks meet uplifting views. (Photo at left courtesy Rummer House)

In the home we shot in, our art director Jorie Garcia noted, “The central courtyard acted as both an entrance and a gathering spot, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor, as well as areas for socializing and more private, personal spaces.” Another nice touch: Cork floors provided a soft feel underfoot and created a cushion for sound. You instantly decompress when you step inside. If you have a chance to tour any of Rummer’s homes, do! (For a design pilgrimage splurge, you can rent the Rummer House on AirBnB.)

Brew Time

Dutch design from 1968 that needs no improving.

I love the simplicity of my Moccamaster with its subtle nod to a chemistry set: No screens, no unnecessary dials or settings. Just two switches (½ or full pot; on/off), both offering a satisfying click. Oh, and it makes the best coffee.

Which classic designs are “no notes” for you?

Katie xx

P.S. If you haven’t yet read my colleague Amanda Hesser’s new Substack, Homeward, I highly recommend it! Start with her exploration of how your childhood home can influence your own design choices.