Paul Lavoie
A big name in the North American Design scene, we are thrilled to have an interview with the one and only, Paul Lavoie.
One of the top firms in Calgary, Paul Lavoie Interior Design specializes in full-service residential design and has graced the pages of Western Living, Luxe, Homes and Living and Architectural Digest multiple times. I have always admired his work and his appreciation for antiques. Aesthetically, I love how he mixes furnishings from multiple design periods in his spaces, and his ability to focus on great art selections. No two spaces are the same, giving a real sense of personalized living.
Without further ado, let’s dive right into his thoughts on design. Please, read on to get in on the conversation…
Iván Meade – What was your first experience with design?
Paul Lavoie – As a child I constantly manipulated floor plans…My parents were very receptive to listening to all of my design thoughts and ideas.
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – What is your process to find the art and furnishings you use in your projects? Each of your rooms always have an inspirational moment that is unexpected and beautifully thought-out. Does the piece inspire you to create a room around it, or do you create the room around and find the perfect piece to fit into it?
Paul Lavoie – My ideal situation is to create the space, and then discover objects that enhance it. The best situation is when you find objects that elevate a room to a new level.
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – You use rare and unusual materials in your interiors, what is your favourite new find at the moment?
Paul Lavoie – My new find is an old one…mirror. I love mirror, grey, black, smoked….it’s simple and creates moments of interest and depth. Bookcase backs are a must, and a mirrored kitchen backsplash is stunning.
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – What are some of the spaces that have always inspired you, and continue to stand out for you today?
Paul Lavoie -I love spaces that make your head scratch….A space that makes you comfortable, or perhaps uncomfortable. A space that makes us happy; and yes a space can make us happy. I love discovering a space that has an element that I would never have thought of….
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – What kind of private clients are the most fun for you to work with?
Paul Lavoie – All kinds….our office has a policy, if you are open to design and nice; your a great client for us. If we have to battle to bring forth a creative solution, we might not be a fit.
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – What is luxury for you?
Paul Lavoie – Time, sleep, friends and family….a cashmere sofa is great too!….
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – What qualities do you like to be present in your own residence?
Paul Lavoie – My house is a journey of my experiences. It’s truly a smashup! My house is full of things I love.
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – What do you enjoy about being a designer?
Paul Lavoie – Creating something someone can live in. Making a client feel great about there personal space. Having a personal outlet for my creativity.
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – What is the best advice you could give to somebody who is new in the world of design?
Paul Lavoie – Be passionate about design…success will follow.
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – Are there any design rules that you love to dispense with?
Paul Lavoie – I’m a mixer….stop getting uptight . Mix metals, colour textures….give up trying to make thing match, true style is instinctive.
Interiors by Paul Lavoie
Iván Meade – Lastly, you have already created a stunning body of work with many mediums and styles. What would you like your legacy to be?
Paul Lavoie – I hope my legacy will be sharing all the great design knowledge I have with others. Seeing people I work with succeed in their goals….sharing what one knows is the greatest gift.
I invite you to visit Paul Lavoie’s amazing portfolio at his website:
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