Quintessentially Mid-Century

Nothing adds zest to an interior like mid-century modern pieces.  Whether it's a lucite table, a rattan chair, or a mod lamp, add it to your decor and you've got an instant 'hip' factor.

So when Katherine and I ran into Amy Stevens of Vivian Dutch Mildred and her quintessential mid-century style, we knew you'd love her and what her style can do for your interior decorating.

You'll find Amy and her iconic pieces on the second floor of the Main Barn.  Here's a little about herself, from this energetic woman, her music-industry career, and what inspires her now:

What inspired your love of Mid-century design? 

From a young age I have gravitated to the designs of the 50's. 60's and 70's. I began collecting items for my home and then began grabbing items for my friends.  At one point my NYC apt felt like a set from a Doris Day/Rock Hudson movie.  I love the bright colors, simple design, and overall uniqueness that comes from these eras. 

 

Where do you find your inspiration for the interior design you create? 

I am not sure I am creating an interior design!  That is for the masters.  I spent my entire career working in radio, event/concert production and live TV.  This is simply my passion. 

[Amy had an enviable career in the music industry, working with top-name musical talent in both LA and NYC] When I knew I was retiring from the music business and returning to the area, I needed a creative outlet.  My career afforded me the luxury of executing just about anything I could think of.  Every day was exciting, and there was never a dull moment as the players were always different.  New bands, new talent meant new egos and needs.  And the creative outlet was non-stop.

I knew my world was about to slow down significantly and I would need a way to express myself.  I stumbled onto a field sale where a gentleman was selling his parents dining room set--stunning teak with leaf table, sideboard, and hutch.  He was boldly telling everyone that if he didn't sell it, he was taking it to the dump.  I gasped, bought it without any purpose for it and shoved it into my brother and sister-in-law's basement.  I began to amass so many things I needed a warehouse.  

My inspiration comes from my heart beat (as completely corny and unlike me that is) but if my heart starts racing, I know I love something and it's coming home with me.  I literally sell what I love.  Some things connect in a cohesive manner while others may seem a little odd but if I love it, it's here.  Everything in my space would be something I would put in my home.  I want to find beauties that my clients would want to put in their home.  Just as I once did all I could to please talent, I hope to add that passion to my collection here for my clients.   

What's the most intriguing item you've ever found? 

It would have to be the Grand Server which is a coffee table with a secret pop up serving tray and liquor storage.  I suppose one only wanted to bring out the grown folks beverages when the kids were in bed so it had a dual purpose!  

  

My business is named after my three great aunts who were incredibly particular.  When I am at auction, sales, etc, I am pretty particular about what I bring home.  I figure it's the bloodline.  Those ladies had most of the items or comparable to what I am offering when I was a child.  So I felt it only right to name the business after them.  

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I know you're gonna love what Amy brings, and if she's around when you're in her space, you'll soon love her as well.  

Thanks for reading,

Virginia