At Home with Gillian Stevens
As part of our journal stories we invite thoughtful and inspiring creatives to share their story of home. From town, to countryside or coast, homes are a reflection of our lives, a source of comfort which connect us to special memories, stories and people. Although every story is different, home is at the heart of each one.
Our first story brings us to a small town just outside of Vancouver, Canada where we are so pleased to visit clothing designer Gillian Stevens and share a home and business with integrity at its core. Combining thoughtfulness with classic designs and organic fabrics, Gillian’s beautiful collections carry meaningful stories and are made to last. We love the simplicity of her pieces which strike a perfect balance between comfort and elegance.
The use of neutral colours and natural materials within both her work and home are soft and timeless and elements that really resonate. The value of enjoying and treasuring good quality products that have longevity is one which we wholeheartedly share. Gillian’s passion for her family, home and work shine through all that she does and it is inspiring to see the world through her lens.
Gillian’s spaces are warm, calming and inviting and we do hope you enjoy her story of home.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m a wife and mother of two boys (with our third child arriving September). I own a women’s clothing brand focusing on timeless pieces all responsibly made. Before my brand launched two years ago, I was a freelance lifestyle photographer. I am a naturally creative person, I have always been drawn to artistic expressions. I love the combination of motherhood and owning my own business. It’s truly my dream come true.
2. Where do you call home and what is it like?
We live in a neighbourhood just outside of Vancouver, Canada. It’s a charming historic home from 1912, and we love being within walking distance from our children’s schools, my studio and some wonderful parks and local shops.
3. What does home mean to you?
I have always enjoyed curating a space and making it feel like a reflection of my husband and I – and then our children too once they came along. I’m a bit of a homebody and recharge in my own space, so having somewhere that feels good to be in is essential. We tend to live more on the minimal side – I don’t like clutter and always strive to be 10 minutes away from tidy, so everything has a place that’s tucked away, and we don’t keep things we aren’t using.
I love a peaceful home, filled with life and love.
4. How would you describe your aesthetic and style?
Warm, minimal and classic. It’s a merge between my affinity towards Scandinavian minimalism and British classics.
5. Which is your favourite room in your home and why?
We recently updated the boys room and got them bunk beds. I have always wanted a children’s room with white painted wood floors, and it feels like the perfect children’s space now.
I also spend a lot of time in our kitchen, prepping meals for family and friends.
6. How do you choose what to bring in to your home?
I try to be thoughtful with everything that I bring into our home. I love pieces with a story and most of our furniture and decor is either vintage or made by an independent designer. It feels good to have pieces in our home that were made with intention and purpose.
7. What inspires you?
My family and friends. Being around a dinner table with good food and conversation. Travelling to Europe.
