Julius Shulman 1910-2009

One reason I find myself living in Los Angeles is because of Julius Shulman’s photography. Daydreaming as a kid in the backyard of my Southern Louisiana country home, I would pretend that my parent’s house was made of glass like the ones I saw in magazines. One image has always stood out

The famous Kaufmann home in Palm Springs was photographed by Julius in 1947. His ability to capture the mood of mid century modern architecture was stellar. But it was his ability to convey a lifestyle that co-existed with the architecture that made a deep impression on me as a child.

Another image that captures the look of Los Angeles during the turn of the century has been published around the world. Little did I know that many years later I would be blessed to work with him on one of my projects.

For those who are not familiar with his work, his books are a must have.

http://www.taschen.com/pages/en/catalogue/photography/all/04404/facts.julius_shulman_modernism_rediscovered_3_vols.htm

A few weeks before he passed Julius worked with me on photographing a client’s beautiful mid century modern home I recently completed. After the shoot, he invited us up to visit at his home/studio. Not only was he a true artist but the inspiration that helped carve my path from small town Louisiana to my current design firm in Los Angeles.

Julius with Min from my office, Zac and me.

Funky Planters - cool party idea

Perusing through the UK’s edition of Elle Decor I came across an interesting spread. I’m all for re-using pieces for a new purpose - but this takes it to a new level.

I think the umbrella concept could work really well - especially for a party held outside. I’d use umbrella’s in different colors and work in a cocktail menu that had little umbrella’s too. You could theme the party around a spring showers concept and for once, pray it rains for your party!....handing out umbrellas and telling everyone to take off their shoes and enjoy bare feet on wet grass.

Photos by Damian Russell and Styled by Suzanne Stankus