Design Minded: Jean Lin

Jean Lin

design entrepreneur, tastemaker, teacher

Jean Lin is a New York City-based design entrepreneur and the founder of Colony, the designer's co-op and one of our showrooms! This month, we're featuring Jean, her inspirations, and some of her favorite things with our community.

Flat Vernacular: How would you describe your style? 

Jean Lin: I try to keep everything elevated, polished and fun. It's never a good idea to take yourself too seriously!

FV: Where do you find everyday inspiration? 

JL: I'm really inspired by the creative people who orbit me and my business. Everyone has their own way of approaching design, art and their creative and professional endeavors. Working with such a wide array of small business owners and creators keeps me on my toes.

FV: Which design trends are you most excited about right now?

JL: I'm not sure it's a trend, but I really can't get enough of mauve right now.

FV: A design piece you’re currently coveting?

JL: At Colony, we just launched a new collection of cork tables by Grain Design based out of Bainbridge Island. It's a series of lathed, monolithic cork forms that are buttery soft and I want one of the side tables for my living room!

FV: What’s a design item you can’t live without? 

JL: I'm not sure, but it's certainly something utilitarian like my Le Creuset or electric toothbrush or something like that.

FV: Best piece of design advice? 

JL: Find your voice, articulate who you are to yourself first and foremost. It's so easy to get lost in the sea of noise, and the most important thing is to know who you are and what you bring to the table.

FV: What’s your favorite piece from Flat Vernacular? 

JL: I love so many of their patterns. But I've loved Perennial - Verdant since day one. It skirts the line between classic and contemporary, but lives in its own space that is dramatic and fresh all at once.

FV: Favorite book?

JL: Tuck Everlasting.

FV: Favorite color?

JL: It changes with the seasons but mauve rules my life right now.