I just read “The Perfect Setting” from the March issue of Elle Décor. The article focuses on Frederico de Vera’s collections of rare, beautiful, and antique objects—and, perhaps most importantly—the surprising ways in which he allows them to work together. His Manhattan apartment is basically a big, incredible collage of awesomeness. Professionally, De Vera owns two retails stores in New York City, has published two books, and designs exhibition spaces. In both his own home and his business, de Vera seems to understand the value of story and craft behind the objects he purchases. Most people assume art and utility exist in totally separate realms, but they don't. I think it's really interesting the way everyday objects in our homes can be both functional and beautiful.
As a huge fan of his work, I was stoked to get a glimpse of his personal space. Ryan and I were lucky enough to meet de Vera a few years ago, and both agree that it is his passion and exact attention to detail that we find most inspiring. When I was growing up in Texas, I never thought doing what you love and making a living could be intertwined—I thought ‘job’ and ‘passion’ existed in separate realities. De Vera is proof that doesn’t have to be the case. Just like beauty and utility, the two can coexist, and often one strengthens the other. We think these principles and dreams are similar to what inspired us to found HORNE, and what keeps us passionate about the work we do.