An alternative house tour of the home of two set designers. This house filled with eclectic curiosities is very unique!
My friends, Laurie and Mikal are collectors of unique and eclectic curiosities. They have a theremin, a tiny self-built combustion engine, art deco lamps, antique furniture, and lots and lots of artwork.
Working in film and theatre, they come by this collection of eclectic curiosities naturally. They were involved in creating the sets and scenery in a lot of well-known productions. Mikal is also the carpenter who helped us build our little shabin in less than one week.
After admiring their home for the many years of our friendship, I decided to turn up one Sunday afternoon with my camera and a box of donuts.
A tiny home
At 650 sq ft. their house is really tiny. It was built by the farmer who owned the farm in that area (way before it became part of our downtown core) and was likely built for retirement. With stained glass windows and fireplaces throughout, its small size was not a reflection of their finances but rather a lack of interest in hosting large parties.
The house was later owned by an artist who added a number of interesting touches, including the columns that separate the only bedroom from the kitchen.
Perhaps what most defines their space are their collections. Mikal collects succulents. He probably has around 30 different varieties inside and outside the house.
Laurie collects books. While she frequently gives away books and curates her own free library, she still has a huge collection. There are stacks of books in every room of the house.
They also have a large collection of art… not pictures of art, but actual pieces: paintings, prints, sculptures.
While I walked around the house taking photographs of everything, Mikal mentioned that many people find the conflict of color and objects to be overwhelming.
Personally, I love their space. There’s always something interesting to look at, and it usually comes with a story. Perfect for someone like me, caught by an interest in narrative.
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