Today we’d like to introduce you to Laurie Marchant.
Hi Laurie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I pursued an art degree, and I had planned to go to grad school for art conservation and restoration, and I was interning at the Cooper-Hewitt design museum in archives. It funny… there was a curator there who told me to do something else because schools were “pumping out” curators every year and there would be only so many museums who can afford to have curator. Once they hire a curator, that person will typically stay in the job until they’re dead. She told me, “I’m going to stay in the job until I’m dead”, so you’re probably never going to get a job. I realized I needed to forge my own path.
I realized at the time that I connected strongly with the idea of creating beauty within my own environment. With a deep appreciation for art and architectural products, I saw an opportunity to bring that same sense of considered, inspiring environments to others.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest struggle has been figuring out how to be a business owner. It can be very time-consuming. Coming from an art background rather than a business background has been both my greatest strength and my biggest challenge. The creative vision behind the brand is core to what I do but learning the operational and strategic side of running a company has required time, patience, and a willingness to grow. It’s been a rewarding journey, and one that continues to shape how I build and lead the business.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We believe functional objects deserve the same reverence as fine art and our offerings are chosen and produced with that philosophy in mind. Studio Marchant curates richly detailed architectural fittings, finishes, and furnishings ranging from artisan cabinet hardware and sustainable hardwood flooring and artisan made products. We blend craftsmanship, sustainability, and timeless design to equip luxury residential and commercial projects with unique, soul-infused materials.
We have curated a niche collection of artisan brands that are beautifully designed and have an unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices. Everything we deal in is thoughtfully chosen to elevate a space while also aligning with our values of integrity and responsibility.
We also have an associated business – Maison de Reve antiques. This special project was also born out a love of art and design. I was living in Belgium and working with a master hardware company who had been designing and producing artisan hardware since the early 1900s. While in Belgium I connected with an antique dealer, and we worked out a plan where I would bring a selection of European vintage and antique items to the US. This has been a special project for us because it also has a greater cause in that 50% of the proceeds from the sale of these pieces directly contribute to the Caluna Foundation non-profit charity. The Caluna foundation plays a crucial role in supporting children and families facing childhood cancer in Africa by building hospitals.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
When I decided to move to New York City, I’ve never even visited before I arrived. When I arrived, I just told the driver to drop me and my single suitcase off in Times Square because it was one of the only places that I’d heard of–and he did.
Pricing:
- o Our Affordable Luxury hardware collections are a curated offering of beautifully made pieces that blend quality and accessibility, ranging from $18.00 to $80.00
- o Our foundry-cast handmade solid brass hardware ranges from $34.00 for a cabinet knob to a $4600.00 full-sized door grip.
- o Our architect designed Natural Genius hardwood flooring and cladding ranges from $40.00 to $56.00 per SF
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studiomarchant.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio_marchant/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studiomarchant/
Image Credits
Main Image of Laurie Marchant – Photograper: Bryan Rindfuss
