Every design company has a signature style, but for Project House: Austin designer Christine Turknett of Breathe Design Studio, it might not be what you expect.
Sure, she leans toward a modern aesthetic and has a passion for Scandinavian influences, but when asked about Breathe Design Studio’s signature style, neither of those was mentioned. “Our signature aesthetic isn’t applicable to our projects,” says Christine. “I act as a guide for my clients to help make their homes clean, cozy and calming. So, whatever that means to the client, I try to capture that.”
Balance and Harmony
As for Christine’s process, she has a framework she leans toward without any definite rules. “I like thoughtful and intentional design that promotes well-being,” she says. “An aesthetic isn’t just a look. It’s also about what feelings it invokes. It’s a holistic relationship with objects and people.”
Alongside the three Cs, Christine has other elements she includes in the signature style for Breathe Design Studio. “It’s all about the harmony and balance for the people who live in the space and for the people who visit,” she says. “We want you to be present in the environment so you’re experiencing it and not thinking about it.”
Communication and Belonging
In order to create that balance, Christine has to tell a story through her design. As a literary critic in her past, she is intrigued with narrative and incorporates it into her designs.
“Our rooms tell stories about belonging, well-being and comfort,” she says. “It’s a conversation between different pieces, references, preferences and things that bring people joy.”
And whatever story the room tells determines who will feel at home in the space. “Belonging is a word that’s so important with the human condition,” Christine says. “The things in the room are technically belongings, but I hope to facilitate and foster a sense of belonging for my clients and for their guests.”
In the end, Breathe Design Studio is about helping her clients create their dream home, whatever that looks like. “It’s not about our signature aesthetic,” says Christine. “We guide our clients through the process of creating a sanctuary that has clean, cozy and calming elements included.”
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