Designer Crush Q&A: Jamie Bush

Author:Rachel Amy Shahvar

Jamie Bush & Co. also just moved into a new space inspired by NY lofts (see pictures above!) in the heart of the design quarter on La Cienega. The designer says the neighborhood is, “really like a little community, very supportive with a lot of big changes going on. I love it here and feel like part of something bigger than just myself.” How cool is that? We are totally inspired by Jamie’s work as a designer and artist, and couldn’t wait to ask him the Designer Crush Q&A! 

1. Where do you currently live in CA and what’s your favorite thing about how you’ve designed your personal space?

I’m currently living in a small Spanish bungalow from the 1930’s within walking distance to my new offices on La Cienega in Los Angeles. After living in a ‘fancy’ appointed home in Venice for years I opted for a very reduced, simple eclectic beach aesthetic – vintage rattan and mid-century wicker, some modern sculptures, Ethnic handmade textiles, Japanese organic pottery, Old African stools and masks surrounded by an overgrown garden and white walls – very simple and inspiring to me. It’s my palette cleanser.

2. What’s your dream design project? Who would it be for (dead or alive)?

My dream project right now is maybe within reach… I’m interviewing to design the interiors of an amazing mid-century house on the ocean in Carmel called ‘the butterfly house’. It’s for a influential young couple with kids from London and they would like to raise their children there. It’s windswept on an utterly dramatic setting, clients with great taste and probably a nice budget. Fingers crossed! 

3. In real life, what’s your favorite project you’ve completed to date?

I would probably have to say the remodel of my parent’s beach house on Fire Island. It’s very simple but my mom loves it so much that I get a lot of pleasure out of seeing her enjoy it.

4. You’ve been gifted a fabulously furnished dream home but can only bring one item from your current space. What would it be?

That’s a hard one but I think it would probably be a rustic modern sculpture of a bird my father made for me.

5. What’s your creative process when designing a space?

I always start with the architecture. For me that has always been the driving force of any project. Because of my architectural background we do a lot of interior architecture and construction. When the architecture needs to be redesigned and/or adjusted that comes first along with furniture floor plans. So that there is an overall layout and plan for lighting, finish materials, flow, etc. The décor falls into place once the spatial planning and the building are spot on.

6. Where do you score your favorite interior design items? Any shopping tips?

All over, I love flea markets and auctions – there you can find deals and things that have not been picked up by dealers first. LA has great vintage and antique stores and we are using more and more contemporary design in our projects so the furniture fairs like ICFF are essential.

7. Ever had an epic DIY disaster? What project would you never take on again yourself?

Most of them… Really we hire professionals whenever possible because you are only as good as your team – they are your foundation in any good design project. I’m not a wall paper hanger, carpenter, or mason so why pretend? Hire the right people first!

8. What new design trend are you excited to integrate into your next project?

I suspect it’s not really a trend however I’ve always wanted to use vintage furnishings and antiques with a heavy patina. Most of my projects tend to be cleaner but I so appreciate the rich history of wear and tear on good quality furnishings and look forward to a project that embraces that aesthetic.

9. Lightning round!  

Beach or mountains?

Beach.

Twitter or Facebook?

Facebook.

Architectural Digest or Wallpaper?

Wallpaper.

Should you spend money on a fabulous bathroom or kitchen?

Kitchen.

Would you rather shop new or vintage?

Vintage.

Great view or perfect pool?

View.

SF or LA?

LA.

10. What’s one tip you wish someone had told you when first starting out in the design world?

Go to business school first!

Want more Jamie Bush?

Jamie Bush & Co., Jamie’s fine art, and keep your eyes out for an upcoming feature of Jamie Bush on Dering Hall! 

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