Ever wondered what the homes of fashion’s most innovative minds look like? Prepare to be inspired. Design Within Reach (DWR) has just unveiled an exclusive glimpse into the personal spaces of fashion designers Willy Chavarria and Sandy Liang as part of their Originals campaign, and it’s a game-changer. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: this isn’t just about furniture—it’s about how design intersects with identity, creativity, and modern living. And this is the part most people miss: these homes aren’t just stylish; they’re deeply personal narratives, reflecting the designers’ journeys and philosophies.
In celebration of New York Fashion Week, DWR tapped Chavarria and Liang to showcase how their unique perspectives shape not just fashion but also the way we live. The campaign, previewed by WWD, was masterfully directed by Sharif Hamza, a renowned fashion photographer known for capturing raw, unscripted moments. These moments were caught in Liang’s serene Connecticut retreat and Chavarria’s vibrant TriBeCa loft, both serving as canvases for iconic design pieces like the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen and the Eames lounge chair by Charles and Ray Eames. But why does this matter? Because it challenges us to think: Can our homes truly reflect who we are?
Sandy Liang, celebrated for her playful runway designs inspired by her childhood in New York City’s Chinatown, describes her home as a sanctuary where creativity thrives. ‘My home is both a place of rest and a space where ideas flourish,’ she shares. Her Connecticut haven, featuring pieces like the USM Haller Media console, isn’t just a backdrop—it’s an extension of her work, blending seamlessly into everyday life. Controversial thought: Is it possible for a home to be both a retreat and a source of inspiration without feeling staged? Liang’s space seems to say yes, but we’d love to hear your take in the comments.
Willy Chavarria, on the other hand, brings his celebrated authenticity to the forefront. Honored as Designer of the Year at the Latin American Fashion Awards and CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year, Chavarria’s TriBeCa home is a testament to his dynamic journey. ‘My home is an amalgamation of my entire life,’ he reflects. Photographed with the Flos Arco lamp and other timeless pieces, his space tells a story of movement, growth, and love. Bold question: Can a home truly capture the essence of a person’s life? Chavarria’s answer is a resounding yes, but what do you think?
This isn’t DWR’s first foray into blending fashion and design. Last year, they launched the Paul Smith Collection, reimagining classics from Herman Miller and Knoll. But the Originals campaign takes it a step further by inviting us into the designers’ worlds, making these pieces shoppable online. It’s not just about selling furniture—it’s about selling a lifestyle, a philosophy. And here’s the kicker: This is only the second iteration of the Originals project, with past collaborations including luminaries like Jerald ‘Coop’ Cooper and David Chipperfield. What’s next for DWR? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: they’re redefining what it means to live with design.
So, what do you think? Can a home truly be a reflection of one’s soul? Or is it just another space to fill with things? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!