I know the pandemic resulted in a lot of big changes for a lot of people. In my case, I also had to deal with some very serious illness in my family and the difficult and emotional conclusion of a decade long relationship. But, with sad endings, come beautiful (and sometimes a little scary) new beginnings. After a frustrating stint of looking for live/work studio rentals, I went to a viewing at what was once a Liquor Distribution Warehouse, built in 1901.
It was converted decades ago to lofts and was the very first artist live/work building in Vancouver. A long time resident who has been here since the beginning told me that when it opened, there was a line around the block of hopeful artistic applicants. This place is special and I’m so honoured that I get to call it home. Unlike other Vancouver buildings I’ve lived in, there is a sense of community here and although I’ve only had my place for a month, I’ve met some incredible people. There’s Beata Kacy, my lovely building manager and founder of Soigne and Octopus Studios who has fantastic stories of her many travels. Jennifer Williams is a talented boudoir photographer a couple floors down from me and she instantly felt like someone I’d been friends with forever. She brought me sushi when I had no furniture and we sat on the floor and laughed and got to know each other. And across the hall, there is Ashley Wray, of Mala Collective, whom I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting in person yet as she’s adventuring in Europe, but I just know through our text communication is an absolute sweetheart.
I’ve added a few more plants since this video was taken, but this gives you a good idea of the space.
Here are some images I’ve taken in here so far!
Claire of Key Models, H+MU by Rio Translado - Lia Liza of Key Models Styling by Jason Pillay - Briana Buckmaster, H+MU by Swank Make Up Artistry
I cannot wait to invite you over to take your headshots, maternity photos, commercial beauty and more and I hope you love this place as much as I do! Also, comment your favourite tropical house plant because I’m not done with this obsession.