Interview with designer Cindy Hsu Zell of WKNDLA

 

We're so excited to present our first interview for the new year featuring a maker from my hometown of LA.  Get to know the experimental charming designer of the modern sculptural wall hangings and jewelry line, WKNDLA-named after the designer's fave time and place.  With a background in sculpture along with retail installations and display, LA-based Cindy Hsu Zell took a leap last year to pursue her passion full time. Her creations embody a minimalist aesthetic, yet a standout for the innovative fusion of different materials (textiles, wood, metal) and design techniques.  Rooted in creating special pieces for her friends and family, Cindy's beautiful modern designs are treasured additions to our shop.

We love your stunning modern wall hangings! How would you describe your design approach and creative process- from design, inspiration and the formation of each collection?

I like to work organically, when I have an idea I try to make it as soon as possible because no matter what I picture in my head, the final product always ends up a little different. Usually this is because I can’t force a material to do something it doesn’t want to do so I like to get hands-on early and see where it goes. I try to have a cohesive group of materials or shapes to play with when forming a collection, such as the Small Hours collection of wall hangings inspired by different times of the day from sunrise to sunset, or Perpencircular, inspired by curves and straight lines. Right now I’m focusing on making all of the small and large-scale ideas dancing around my head without an overarching theme in mind, it’s going to be a little more experimental and one of a kind!

How did you get started in designing and crafting sculptural wall hangings and jewelry?

I created the brass, wood, and natural fiber wall hangings as favors for my wedding. I wanted to make a modern version of the good luck talisman to give to each of our guests as a token of our appreciation for them coming out to celebrate our special day with us. That’s how I started designing my wall hangings, by making each piece for a specific person in mind very close to us.

Love your design aesthetic and mixture of different elements. How do you integrate and choose the materials to use for each design?

I like to work with a very neutral color palette so mixing more texture and materials came very naturally in the design process. I love the contrast of shiny brass with raw wood. I also really enjoy incorporating different techniques into my pieces, from metalsmithing to woodworking, to spinning rope!

How have your designs evolved? What's next for your collection or any new projects?

My designs are continually changing as I find new materials to work with and develop new techniques. I’m really interested in continuing to hone in on my rope-making skills and see what kinds of interesting new shapes and combinations I can make from scratch. I really want to make some larger wall sculptures and installations this year!

Any advice for others taking a leap and starting their own business in design and creating products?

My advice is to be original and kind, always.

I know it’s so hard to choose, but what are some of your favorite pieces from your collection?

My favorite piece is called Perpencircular 002 and is made of a very large piece of rope draped over a wooden dowel. This piece is the reason I started making rope myself, because I wanted to create a 4” diameter rope from scratch. It took 8 hours alone to walk the string before I spun it and several hours to dye it indigo. It is over 4,000 strands of thread thick and uses 36,000 feet of string. I can still recall every drop of blood, sweat, and tears that went into that thing! I currently have it hanging in my studio where I don’t think I’ll ever move it.

Running a business requires a lot of time and passion for what you do- on your down time, what are your other interests, passions or activities that you enjoy?

My husband Matt and I just bought a house and I love figuring out how to decorate it. The slow process of building furniture to fill it with and finding the perfect pieces to save up for is totally addictive. We also love all food and enjoy discovering new restaurants and cooking our favorite dishes. We just got a grill so we’re obsessed with making dinner in the backyard, our favorites are ribeye steak and pizza!

Fun facts about you. Secret talents? Any irks and quirks you'd like to share?

Matt and I love to watch the Bachelor, and have watched almost every season of every show from the franchise together for the last 6 years. I love all the drama but have to admit that I also cry during every finale because I’m a hopeless romantic and believe they can actually find love on that crazy show. I also taught myself how to play the ukulele so I could play my favorite songs by Beirut.

What is your personal style or aesthetic?

My style is very comfortable, versatile, and minimal. I only wear black and grey, I can’t really help it! For my home, I also love neutrals and keeping everything very clean. I don’t think any of this is very surprising or different from the aesthetic of my art!

What are some of your favorite pieces and items you collect for you or your home?

I love trading art with other makers and they are some of my favorite pieces in my home. It is such an amazing and humbling opportunity to be able to exchange my time and energy for an object that I’ll treasure forever. I also like to collect functional souvenirs from every place I travel to that blends in with the aesthetic of my home. I like to look for things like textiles, art, and ceramics that I’ll actually use and display that has a great memory behind them of the journey!

Shop WKNDLA wall hangings

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 As a small business, we love to work with and support a community of emerging designers. It has been a joy to share Cindy's process and journey as she balances work, craft and life. Her organic flexible approach and respect for materials inform her stunning designs. Her advice resonates with any industry big or small and of course, in all aspects of life that "kindness" is key.  The joy, support and care for her customers and community of makers are evident in what she does. Utilizing skills from woodworking to metalsmithing, she is truly one of the sweetest and versatile makers I've met. Thank you so much Cindy for taking the time to share your craft, process and personal side! And so delighted to showcase your work and support my fellow Angeleno!

Product and Studio/Home Photos courtesy of WKNDLA

Richmond: Travel Tips from Christine Young of Young Frankk

I'm delighted to present part 2 of our interview with Richmond-based jewelry designer Christine Young of Young Frankk. As one of America's oldest cities, Richmond boasts a wonderful combination of history, creative energy and natural beauty. From her favorite food places, local haunts and beloved design community, Christine gives us a peek of this beautiful historic town she now calls home.

Young Frankk's Richmond Studio

Vuela X Young Frankk Necklace

You are currently based in Richmond, Virginia. What is your favorite thing about living in Richmond? How has your city influence your designs?

Richmond is such a cool city to live in. There's always something to do, the cost of living is cheap, the people are so friendly and fun and it has a great art and design community. I have so many talented friends here who also have their own businesses and seeing their work is definitely inspiring and motivating. 

What are "must see" things or "must do" for those visiting your hometown?

Probably the first place people will say to check out is Belle Isle or the James River. You can hike along it, swim or there's even a natural rock climbing wall to climb. Carytown is a cute little shopping area with boutiques, restaurants and bars that is all very walkable. The Byrd Theatre is also in Carytown and I like to go there because they play $2 movies every night in a very historical grand theatre. VMFA is a great art museum in the Fan district with great special exhibitions that come thru with fun wine nights on Thursday and Friday nights. And I would also recommend driving down Monument Avenue to see beautiful and historic homes and statues. 

 

Virgina Museum of Fine Arts image via

What are off the beaten path local hangouts? Favorite neighborhoods, parks, etc.? 

Maymont Park is a huge beautiful park to check out with a wildlife rehabilitation center, a children's farm and different themed gardens. But my personal favorite park is Libby Hill Park in the Church Hill neighborhood, its not expansive but you can get a really great view overlooking Richmond and the James River so it's really serene to sit and enjoy the view. Richmond also has a huge music scene, so theres shows happening all the time either at local venues or house shows. 

Favorite places to shop: boutiques or outdoor markets:

I love to check out what my friend Kate has in store at her shop Na Nin, she carries the most beautiful handmade clothing, objects and apothecary made by independent designers. And of course there is Need Supply, which has a huge following and a constant flow of great selections. I am so grateful to have both awesome shops in Richmond carry Young Frankk! Another great boutique is Verdalina, which has a great curation of my favorite designers. Other than clothing, I also love checking out the vintage and thrift stores around town for home stuff, my favorite one is probably Verve which is a huge warehouse filled with awesome vintage home furnishings. Once in a while there'll be the Well Worn Markets which showcases local makers and designers plus vintage finds so it's fun to go and see what everyone is creating and doing around town.

Na Nin

 

Need Supply Co.

Favorite places to eat or type of food: 

There's so many great new restaurant and bars constantly popping up in Richmond, some of my recent favorites are: Dog and Pig Show, Saison, Proper Pie, Sabai, Sub Rosa Bakery and Pasture. Then there are old favorites such as 8 1/2, Helen's, Mamma Zu, Lamplighter, The Magpie and Can Can and so many more!

 

 

Metzger / Stella's / Sub Rosa Bakery / VMFA Cafe / The Dog and Pig Show

Best mode of transportation to get around the city:

Richmond is definitely known for its bike community, people love to bike here. But other than that, driving is great because you can pretty much get anywhere you need to go within 10 minutes.

Easy day trips from Richmond-cool places to see right outside the city: 

Skyline Drive is a great scenic route to take to see beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, I like to go there to do some hiking and joyriding. Charlottesville is the next city over where I like to go for some good food and a change of scenery, its a really cute and beautiful town surrounded by historical buildings and vineyards. Then only 2 hours away is DC, where of course is great food, shopping, museums and shows. 

Thomas Jeffereson's home: Monticello in Charlottesville image via

Favorite local designers or makers: 

Favorite local designers and makers in Richmond are Na Nin, GiantLION, Emimade Ceramics, Colo Palo and Campfire & Co. 

Lookbook Photo from Giant Lion Jewelry

Lookbook Photo from Calo Palo

For the wanderlust in all of us, what are some of your favorite places to visit? Where would you like to travel next?

I love to visit Korea and on my bucket list to travel to is: Greece, India, Africa and Iceland! 

Shop Young Frankk Jewelry Collection
Personal photos courtesy of Young Frankk

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Thanks so much Christine for giving us a glimpse of the wonderful city of Richmond! I'm so happy to share this travel guide to one of our historic cities in the US. I really appreciate you taking the time to share your favorite places and these lovely images. Thank you!

Interview Part 1: Christine Young of Young Frankk Jewelry

We're thrilled to present our next interview with Richmond-based jewelry designer Christine Young of Young Frankk jewelry. As a graduate of Parsons School of Design for Illustration, Christine launched her jewelry line in 2012. We've carried Young Frankk jewelry early on and have always been in awe of the fresh collection Christine produced each season. Featuring clean lines and sculptural shapes, her collection mixes subtle minimalist pieces with simple statement making design that's easy to wear. The modern versatility yet timeless aesthetic of her designs make them a go-to jewelry for any ensemble. I always find myself reaching for one of her pieces. Our recent collaboration piece reflects the beautiful simplicity in her designs: a simple elegant everyday necklace. 

Young Frankk X Vuela Necklace

The Young Frankk line of jewelry has always been a shop fave.  How would you describe your design approach and creative process- from design, inspiration and the formation of each collection?

Thank you so much! Well, my design process always starts with a sketch. Sometimes I'll play off of a design idea or shape from a previous collection by reinterpreting it. Or I'll completely change the direction by experimenting with a new element whether its a new technique or material.

Your background is in art. How did you get started in jewelry design?

After art school, I really wanted a new creative outlet besides drawing or painting and jewelry seemed like the perfect way to work with my hands while learning a new skill and craft. I fell in love with jewelry making as it was new way to translate my line work onto metal. 

Your line has a cohesive modern minimalist aesthetic, yet each season's collection is fresh and distinctive. How has your designs changed or evolved?

That is my main goal with every new collection: to stay fresh and distinctive. I am motivated by straying away from obvious trends and so I challenge myself to be as creative or original as I can. I think with each collection its been a natural evolution of experimenting with something new, as a result something different is created.

Young Frankk New Collection

What's next for your collection or any new projects?

I do have some new projects in mind that I've been thinking about a lot for quite some time but I just need to find the time to finally work on them! But hopefully I will be coming out with them this summer. 

There are many accessories to complete an ensemble. What is your favorite thing about creating jewelry?

I love that jewelry can completely change the feeling or look of an outfit, it can go from casual to interesting even if it's a subtle earring or a bold statement necklace. 

I know it’s so hard to choose, but what are some of your favorite pieces from your collection?

My favorite pieces from the spring collection is the Archway Necklace for sure, something about it, I just really love. And my other necklace favorite is the Balance Necklace, I love that the chain goes thru the circle of the pendant. My favorite earrings are the Plate Studs and the Dot Ring Studs and then my favorite ring would be the Shield Ring. 

Running a business requires a lot of time and passion for what you do- on your down time, what are your other interests, passions or activities that you enjoy?

Definitely, my business is my number one passion and interest, I feel truly blessed and lucky I do what I enjoy so I do not take it for granted, I am so appreciative of all my customers and supporters such as you!

On my down time, I really like to go on Craigslist or to go thrift stores and buy things really cheap for the home and repurpose it with some paint and cleaning. I also do yoga for exercise, I love to go camping and canoeing but most of all, I love spending time and laughing with my family and the people that I love. 

Fun facts about you. Secret talents? Any irks and quirks you'd like to share? 

I can play the intro to K-Ci & Jojo's All my Life on the piano. I am a huge scary movie fan! I'm always in the mood to watch a good scary movie or thriller. I love rainy days, growing up in Washington State has made me appreciate nature and a good rainfall. I also really really love clouds, they are so beautiful. I love taking pictures of clouds especially at sunset when the colors are unreal! 

What is your personal style or aesthetic? 

My personal style is very laid back and minimal. The number one thing that dictates my style is comfort level, I must be comfortable! 

What are some of your favorite pieces and items you collect for you or your home?

I love collecting mirrors for the home, I especially love huge frameless mirrors to lean against walls or round mirrors. I just love how they instantly open up a small space and make it brighter. 

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Thank you so much Christine for taking the time to share  your creative process and personal side! I really enjoyed getting to know you. And of course, this new collection is amazing and it's always so hard to choose from your designs. You're truly one inspiring lady that embraces the joys of life whether it's doing what you love or spending time with family and friends. 

Lookout for Part 2 of the interview with travel tips to Christine's town of Richmond, Virgina.

Shop Young Frankk Jewelry

Lookbook and personal images from Young Frankk

Vancouver: Travel Tips from Ceramicist Jacqueline Klassen

Spring time is upon us (more like summer here in So Cal!) and I've been looking forward to a little spring break to my "must-visit" destination. Since Vuela is rooted in my love for travel and design, it's always exciting to highlight the locales our designers call home. We're thrilled to feature our neighbors to the north! Canadian ceramicist, Jacqueline Klassen, offers the best tips on her beautiful hometown of Vancouver sparking the wanderlust in us.

You are currently based in Vancouver, British Columbia. What are "must see" things or "must do" for those visiting your hometown?
Vancouver is such a naturally beautiful city. Nestled between mountains and the sea, the city itself is still pretty new and offers so much to explore. In general I’d say that you’ve got to experience a bit of it all when you come here. I’d recommend going to Third Beach in Stanley Park to fill the beach / park requirement, and perhaps a hike through Lynn Canyon to satisfy the mountain experience. But then, of course, my favourite thing about Vancouver is the food, and I could talk your ear off about that. Vancouver has an amazing craft beer and coffee thing going on right now, which I would HIGHLY recommend investigating. For beer: Brassneck, 33 Acres, and Strange Fellows. For Coffee: Elysian, Revolver, and Matchstick.

Matchstick Coffee

 What are off the beaten path local hangouts? Favorite neighborhoods, parks, etc.?
Crab Park is my favourite spot to have a picnic. It’s quaint and quiet, and it has a beautiful view of the orange gantry cranes, the water, and the mountains.  Le Marche St George is my go to for French crepes and coffee. It’s located in a super old house that is filled to the brim with beautiful (and delicious) treasures. The furthest point west you can go at Spanish Banks is my top choice for watching the sunset. Oh, and I also love the top of Queen Elizabeth Park. I like to go there in the spring and wander through the gardens, just as they are starting to come to life. The view from the top is pretty spectacular, and then there is the Bloedel Conservatory… a glass dome filled with tropical plants and birds. I go there in the dead of winter and pretend I’m on the other side of the world.

Picnic essentials + Lunch at Le Marche St. George

Bloedel Conservatory

Favorite places to shop: boutiques or outdoor markets:
For clothing, I love Community Thrift store. The prices are reasonable and I almost always walk away with a one of a kind treasure. I balance out my thriftiness by splurging on shoes. My favourite shoe shop is Umeboshi on Main Street. They have the most gorgeous, drool- worthy selection of shoes, and the sweetest staff. I also adore Old Faithful Shop, a store filled to the brim with gorgeous home goods. I would buy every single thing in that shop if I could. I do all my book shopping at Pulp Fiction.  Dressew on East Hastings is where I go to get any and all of my crafting supplies. It’d huge, so be prepared to lose yourself for a couple hours, even if you plan to only stay for 5 minutes.

Then of course there are all the wonderful farmer’s markets that pop up around the city throughout the year. We’re lucky to live in a place where we have a pretty decent variety of local produce available all year round. I’ve always found the farmer’s markets to be a source of inspiration and connection within Vancouver.
 

Image via Old Faithful Shop

Favorite places to eat or type of food:
Vancouver is absolutely loaded with incredible ethnic food. My favourites are Toshi for sushi, Phnom Penh for anything on the menu, Menya Japanese Noodle for Ramen, and Au Petit Café for Bahn Mi. Vancouver also has some really, really great pizza. Pizza is probably my favourite food on earth and I take it pretty seriously. My favourite spots are Campagnolo, Pizzeria Farina, and Nicli Antica.

Pizzeria Farina

Best mode of transportation to get around the city:
By bicycle! Or if it's pouring (which it might be), by foot (with umbrella in hand). Transit is always a last resort for me.
  
Easy day trips from Vancouver-cool places to see right outside the city:
My favourite day trips are the ones that allow me to really escape from the fast pace of the city. I love to drive to Squamish and hike The Chief (the second largest granite monolith in North America, I believe). It’s a challenge, but the view from the top is staggeringly beautiful. In the summers I love to visit either Lighthouse Park or Whytecliff Park, where I’ll always climb along the rocks and jump into the sea. I’m convinced that there is nothing better than that.

Whytecliff Park

 Favorite local designers or makers:
Olla Urban Flower Project- ethereal bouquets, informative workshops, etc. I go into their shop anytime I need a pick me up.
Lissu Linen - I’m a sucker for linens, and Lisa crafts the most clean and classic towels, napkins, and duvet covers I’ve seen.
Wylden – for minimal, timeless and elegant jewelry... it’s all I wear.
Hendrik Lou – for the coziest (and most gorgeous) knits
Charlotte Falk - I want to cover all my walls in her paintings.

Wearing Wylden Jewelry

Painting by Charlotte Falk

 For the wanderlust in all of us, what are some of your favorite places to visit? Where would you like to travel next?
I love to visit Ucluelet, BC perhaps more than any place I’ve ever been. It’s located on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Wide open ocean, and wild, rugged beaches… it is the place I go when I want some peace and perspective. I recently returned from Europe and I got to visit Portugal for the first time… I fell so in love. I haven’t stopped thinking about it since I got back. Next on the list though will be South Korea, Turkey, and Spain.

Ucluelet, BC

Jacqueline Klassen Inspiring Interview Part 1
Shop her collection.
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I'm truly grateful Jacqueline for giving us a wonderful travel guide to your hometown of Vancouver. Such a great resource! Some of my favorite things to do when I travel is to explore the local food scene. Even though I live in the west coast, I've actually only explored the east coast of Canada. I can't wait to visit and hang out especially to try out the great selection of food there. Thank you!

Personal photos courtesy of Jacqueline Klassen

Designer Interview Part 1: Jacqueline Klassen

Behind the beautiful products we showcase is a story of craft and inspiration. Getting to know the individuals and sharing our designers' stories are some of my favorite things about running our shop.

Given my strong affinity for all things ceramics, I couldn't be more excited to present our heartfelt and insightful interview with the lovely and inspiring lady, Vancouver-based ceramicist Jacqueline Klassen. Featuring her distinctive sculptural forms, playful patterns and textures, her collection of ceramics is a true objet d'art while functional at heart.

Your pieces have such distinctive forms, tactile quality and playfulness to them, how would you describe your design approach and creative process-from design, inspiration and the formation of your collection?
My design process is relatively unfussy and unplanned. Sometimes it starts with me sketching out an idea, but more often than not it’s something that begins when I sit down at the wheel. I’m thinking about new shapes and forms constantly, and so long as I have a vague idea of what I’m hoping to achieve at the beginning of the day, I’m able to hash out these ideas in a totally organic, experimental way when I’m at the studio. Once I have a piece I find to be aesthetically pleasing, I have to test out it’s functionality. After I get those kinks ironed out, I put it out into the world and see how it’s received.

My pieces are predominantly inspired by architecture and design elements (the interplay between colours, textures, and forms). However, I’m also greatly inspired by the relationship between natural and unnatural environments - that’s something that has stemmed from living in a buzzing city surrounded by mountains and sea.

I have such a weakness for ceramics. How did you get into ceramics?
I took a 6 week beginner course shortly after finishing my degree. I was burnt out and desperately wanted a change of pace before continuing on with more schooling. My infatuation was instant, and I found myself spending every spare minute I had in the studio. I ended up choosing ceramics over the art history program I had been accepted into, and I’m so glad I did. I had no idea that this would grow into what it has in such a short amount of time.
 

How has your design changed or evolved?
My process and my aesthetic has evolved significantly over the past couple years, and I want to continue to allow that to happen as I learn and grow. In terms of process, when I first started I was completely consumed by an end result, which didn’t really allow me much space to experiment and make mistakes. I’ve since become a lot more willing to enjoy the journey and the process that comes along with making a piece. In achieving this, the work I create feels so much more personal. Aesthetically, I’m starting to veer away from colours, and instead focus on bold shapes and forms, and textures.

Behind each piece is an intricate process.  So much of the process involves the combination of art, skill, time, hard work (mixing that glaze!), science and magic in the kiln? How does it feel to open the kiln and see the final pieces?
As you’d expect, it’s incredibly rewarding. There are so many steps in the process, and so many opportunities for things to go wrong along the way, so opening up the kiln and seeing a finished piece IN ONE PIECE is a massive relief. Of course, there are also days when I’ve been experimenting with glazes and I open up the kiln to see that my vision has gone terribly wrong. I try not to ever get too attached to pieces, otherwise I’d be breaking my heart on a bi-weekly basis.

I know it’s so hard to choose, but what are some of your favorite ceramic pieces to make?
I love making teapots. They require the most time and effort out of anything I make, but they are by far the most rewarding. Playing around with various spouts, handles, bodies, and lids to create something that is both aesthetically pleasing AND functional will always be my favourite challenge.

I really enjoyed collaborating with you! What's next for your collection or any new projects?
I have a bunch of collaborations in the works that I’m super excited about. I'm currently working on an exclusive teapot for Sight Unseen that will be available in their online store. In between projects I’m slowly working away on a dinnerware collection, and re-launching my website.

Running a business requires a lot of time and passion for what you do- on your down time, what are your other interests, passions or activities that you enjoy?
My favourite thing to do with my down time is to cook and bake. There is nothing better than pouring myself a glass of wine, turning on some good music, and setting to work in the kitchen. I’m also big into beach combing, reading, and cuddling cats.

Any irks and quirks you'd like to share?
I hate doing the dishes, and I’m incredibly forgetful. I also make a bad ass New York Sour.

What is your personal style or aesthetic? What are some of your favorite pieces and items you collect for you or your home?
I always try to invest in pieces that have a timelessness about them, both for my home and for my wardrobe. For my home, I love old pieces that look like they’ve lived long, full, and exciting lives. Most of my favourite pieces have been found at thrift stores and flea markets. One of my favourite pieces is a hanging lamp from an old ship. My boyfriend and I found it at a street market in Anacortes, WA this past summer. The light itself is attached to a metal pulley and the entire thing hangs from a metal hook. It’s intense. And so, so beautiful.

Any advice for someone who wants to explore and plunge into the world of craft and design?
Sign up for some classes, practice, practice, practice, and always keep your chin up. If you love what you’re doing, nothing else matters.

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Whether the conceptual design of a product starts with paper and pencil or actual construction, it is wonderful to learn not only the craft and creative process, but also the individual's journey in becoming a designer/maker. From taking the leap into the world of craft, it is a continuous process of research, learning, and skill building combined with the love for the craft. Thank you so much Jacqueline for share your inspiring story with us!It is a pleasure to get to know you and you know we'll have to visit your city soon. So grateful!And of course for the wanderlust in you, we will be sharing Jacqueline's travel tips for Vancouver in Part 2. 

Shop Jacqueline Klassen's ceramics


Studio and personal photos courtesy of Jacqueline Klassen

Ellen Truijen Interview Part 2: Travel Tips from Ellen

Ellen at her brandstore opening

It's still summer here at home and given the unbearable heat, I'm definitely dreaming of a fall getaway. And what better time to share part 2 of our interview with shop fave bag designer, Ellen Truijen. While most people visit the big city in the west, I was excited to get some travel tips for Ellen's hometown of Maastricht in southern Netherlands.  Plus she just recently opened her brand store in the city featuring her beautiful collection as well as products from some of her favorite brands.

Ellen Truijen Brand Store

Ellen Truijen Fall Collection

You are currently based in Maastricht Netherlands. What are "must see" things or "must do" for those visiting your hometown or southern Netherlands?

Maastricht is not that big, so stroll around the city, visit the little streets or public squares, drink tea in a cafe or enjoy a glass of wine on a terrace in the sun.

via

Sint-Servaasbrug-oldest bridge in Holland

What are off the beaten path local hangouts? Favorite neighborhoods, parks, etc.?  

The Jekerkwartier, a neighborhood with small little shops and nice bars.

The little streets in between the Vrijthof are also worth a visit or Wyck, the area

behind the old bridge.

 

Jekerkwartier

St. Servatius Basilica adjacent to Het Vrijthof

Favorite places to shop: boutiques or outdoor markets:

From the same owners, there are Traders Pop, Muchachas and Kinsjasa. Traders Pop has both men and women's clothes, second-hand, books and magazines. Muchachas is for the ladies, with nice brands such as A.PC., Monique van Heist (a Dutch designer) and Isabel Marant. Kinsjasa is shoe heaven where I bought my favorite K. Jacques sandals last summer.

I also recommend Festen, this funny store that has a lot of accessories, home stuff, gadgets and more. It's perfect place to find a present. And there is Conflict store, which is focused more on (Dutch) design, lamps and home goods.

Traders Pop

 

Festen

Favorite places to eat or type of food:

I love to go to Cafe Sjiek, it's low key and cozy with good food.

For lunch I go to Take Five bar, with the best club sandwich in town. 

 

Take Five Bar

Easy day trips from Maastricht-cool places to see right outside the city:

Liege is a nice city to visit and just a 20 minute drive from Maastricht. And visit their really cool station as well.

 

Liege-Guillemins Station by Catalan architect Santiago Calatrava

Favorite local designers or makers: 

Lena Berens is one of my favorite local designers. She makes beautiful, simple clothes, in neutral colors and shapes.

 

Lena Berens

I know you’ve traveled to many places, any suggestions? What are some of your favorite places you’ve visited? Where would you like to travel next? 

I really enjoyed visiting Berlin and Copenhagen and would love to go to New York!

Copenhagen via

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Thank you so much Ellen for sharing a little piece of your hometown! I really enjoyed learning about about your city rich in history (one of the oldest in Holland) as well as its significance in modern times (Maastricht Treaty). It's definitely on my growing list of top places to visit!Hope to travel there soon. 

Lookbook and brandstore photos from Ellen Truijen