HISTORY REPEATING – TARA SHAW

Current projects:

I’ve been working on my fall collection which will launch at High Point in October.

Trend you’re excited by:

Blush pink is my new beige; I love to pair it with black to create a strong, stark contrast.

Architecture period you find most engaging:

Right now, I’m enchanted with architects like Bobby McAlpine, Greg Tankersley and Herzog & de Meuron. They blend elements and make references to things that are both old and new in their work.

Inside tip:

I believe in starting a collection that you will want to grow old with. No matter what period, a room can fall flat without layers, a bit of history and fantastic art.

Eames or Mackintosh?

Eames. Charles and Ray were major contributors to lasting, modern furniture. The Eames lounge is the only recliner I would ever use on a project.

Dream dinner party guests:

I’d love to sit down for a meal with Jasper Johns, Odd Nerdrum, Cy Twombly and Jean-Michel Basquiat.

Life is never a straight road, but furniture maestro Tara Shaw has learned to love and take advantage of the detours. “In 2005, when I was about to ship two huge containers of antiques back to New Orleans from Italy (hurricane) Katrina struck; so, instead, we sent them to Houston and set up shop there,” she explains. “The city saved us because we were able to keep working and have a base to do pro bono design work in New Orleans.” But while Katrina brought her to the city, the warm welcome she received is why she never left, opting to expand her business along the Gulf Coast. Luckily, Maison – the line if exquisitely crafted reproductions she started in 2008 when she became worried that the supply of European antiques was dwindling – is a big hit in both towns, despite their different needs. “Homes are larger in Houston,” she gushes, “so everything has to be done on a grander scale!” tarashaw.com; 504.525.1131

The Grisaille Mid Century Chair in handcrafted birch is one of the many reproductions Shaw offers through her line, Maison.

Tara Shaw is happiest when surrounded by the beautiful wares she offers at her Houston and New Orleans showrooms, whether they’re tirelessly searched-for antiques or meticulously crafted reproductions. (Opposite: Shaw is enamored by the work of modern architects, like this handsome estate by Bobby McAlpine and Greg Tankersley)