In yesterday’s post, I sang my praises about my sweet friend Jacquelyn of Lark & Linen and shared her uber comfy and stylish living room tour—it’s a MUST see friends, go check it out before you continue and learn how this lovely lady inspired me in starting my own business. Then, come back here for our fun little Haven Maven interview with her today!
This is a good one guys. Not only are we getting to know Jacquelyn a bit more, but if you haven’t seen her stunning office captured by Heidi Lau, you’re in for a real treat. You might just want to redesign your own home office after you see. Here we go!
When did you know you wanted to be an interior designer and how did Lark & Linen come to life?
To be totally honest, I’ve known I wanted to be an interior designer for as long as I can remember. I still have a binder filled with floor plans I designed when I was 7 or 8. They all included swing bridges, secret passageways, and really epic hiding spots for serious games of hide and seek (naturally). Needless to say, my priorities have since changed, but that passion still remains.
How would you describe your design style?
I always describe my personal design style as classic, comfortable, with just a little edge.
What do you love most about your job?
There are so many incredible aspects about life as an interior designer, but my very favourite is the ability to flex my creative muscles constantly. No two days, two projects, or two events are ever the same, and for that I’m very grateful.
Walk us through a typical day in the life of Lark & Linen.
Oh gosh, I swear every single day is a whole new (wonderful) beast of sorts! From furniture shopping, to site measuring, to blog-post-creating, to millwork designing, to invoicing, and beyond, truly every day looks vastly different. I do, however, always make sure to start my mornings nice and slow. I recently instilled a rule wherein I don’t check my phone or email until at least an hour after I open my eyes and it has been a total game changer.
What’s your favorite room in your own home and why?
Our bedroom for sure. Living in Toronto, our bedroom is quite small, but I secretly love the cozy vibe that lends. And what we lack in size, we definitely made up for in style (if I do say so myself).
What is your number one tip for crafting a beautiful home?
My number one tip for pulling together a beautiful home is to come up with a solid plan before spending a dime. Impulse purchases very rarely ever work out, and more often than not lead to a lot of regret and frustration.
What has been your career highlight so far?
Oh my gosh that’s a tough question! I’ve been so lucky to have had so many pretty major publications feature me and my work, which has been incredible. From Style Me Pretty Living, to Martha Stewart Living, to Domino and now The Haven List, I couldn’t possible narrow it down to one. Each time is more exciting than the last! I am forever grateful.
What’s was the best business advice you’ve ever received?
“Love what you do and the money will come” – my mom, who switched careers in her 40’s and has always been a constant source of inspiration.
Favorite paint color of the moment:
Farrow & Ball – Cornforth White. It’s somehow rich and dramatic, but light and airy. Magic, maybe?
Instagram account(s) you’re obsessed with:
@monikahibbs, @annstreetstudio, @boxwoodavenue
Favorite podcast or inspiring book:
The Lively Show
Top three shops for home decor:
Serena & Lily, Made Goods, Studio McGee
App(s) you can’t live without:
Salt, VSCO, Pinterest
Photography: Heidi Lau
Learn more about Jacquelyn and connect with her on The List!