Select Spaces: Taylor Villanueva
Taylor Villanueva is a lifestyle content creator and financial operations specialist based in San Francisco. Noted for her effortless curation of fashion and interiors, the Californian offers a glimpse into her understated style through the moments she captures at home.
We spoke to Taylor about finding the beauty in everyday living and creating a space for your authentic future self.
How would you describe your living space and interior style?
In a word; less. I’m always pruning. At the same time, evolving.
I’m so excited when I discover a new artist or a historical piece I love because human emotion and passion is expressed in what they create. My goal is to take in what resonates with me in order to document my own story.
My colour palette choices have been called “boring” before, but I think of it as a blank canvas for thought and ideas. I also think flowers are very important. I have a growing vase collection.
Does the design of your living space tend to reflect your personal aesthetic?
Absolutely. I cannot live any other way. Finding my most authentic self is my lifelong quest.
Anthropology was a favourite subject in college because I learned to see myself as a participant of life and an observer at different times.
I stay away from trends and really lean into what brings me joy. Right now, it’s spiral, wavy themes and reflective objects. I always keep my palette neutral if I can help it. As I evolve, my space evolves.
When it comes to finding artwork and furniture for your home, what styles are you naturally most drawn to?
I really like an understated opulence like an unpatterned cream throw blanket which doesn’t attract attention, but when you wrap yourself in it you can feel the integrity of the weave and see the delicate craftsmanship that makes it special.
Charlotte Perriand, Eileen Gray, and Barbara Hepworth are strong female designers/artists I admire. Their objects take up space and require time to take it all in.
I am also an active part of my environment so what I wear influences what I feel as well. I think everyday living is so beautiful. I love wearing Shaina Mote, Boheme Goods, and my favourite looks are from Celine, The Row, and By Malene Birger to name a few.
Where do you find the most inspiration for your interiors?
I grew up with rich brocades and jewel tones. My parents were devotees of the Italian villa-style complete with fountains and dramatic staircases. They were also incredibly frugal and most furniture we had was bought second-hand or given from friends who had outgrown it.
From that I’ve taken a complete 180 aesthetically, but in principle I believe the same ideals. Follow what makes you happy, decorate like you love yourself, and always check second-hand sites for deals.
If money were no object, what’s one piece of artwork or furniture you’d like to add to your collection? And what’s your current most treasured piece?
I’d love to have a Calder mobile hanging in my living room by the window. Whimsy and joy are so important to me when building a home. Things that have movement and flow are cherished.
In that same sentiment, my current treasure is a clay bell wind chime from our last trip to Arcosanti. They make the bells out of metal and clay on site and hang them all over the property. When the breeze picks up, there is an impromptu musical performance.
What makes your personal space a sanctuary for you?
Access, best practices, and the permission to be myself. A sanctuary has to be someplace I can go anytime and limit who can share my space. It sounds harsh, but boundaries are important for preserving your energy.
I have no rules for myself, I find them punitive – but my best practices are to think of my future self and what space she would appreciate coming home to. Permission to be myself is the most difficult one to pinpoint. I would say it has to do with allowing myself to feel joy in my surroundings and letting it give me the feeling I am seeking. That, and a ridiculously comfy chair.
Explore more of Taylor’s images here.