RADAR / SCENE
MEET the MAKER JESSICA MAGEE
There’s a sense of bright optimism to the abstract paintings by Denver-based artist Jessica Magee, even when she veers from the fresh pinks, blues and pops of red she often gravitates toward when capturing the organic shapes found in nature. “I grew up canoeing and always enjoyed the sounds and sights of water moving over river rocks and pebbles. I was super interested in seeing what a colorful interpretation of that memory would be,” she says. “My main intention was to create something soothing to look at.” Magee begins with a few large gestures, then adds layers of flowing patterns in quick-drying acrylic paints, including the bubble-like forms that have become a hallmark of her work. Also deeply ingrained is Magee’s obsession with color, which she attributes to her background in commercial interior design. “I treat so many of my pieces as grand studies because I just love playing with color and composition,” she says. “I don’t think there is any color that is off-limits.” jessicamageeartist.com
the INSIDER As homeowners have rediscovered the importance of well-designed living spaces this year, they’ve been turning to the decorating experts for help creating rooms that feel good without making too much of a fuss—which is why Jamie Nusser has been so busy. The Denver-based founder of J Designs, Inc. has made her mark by creating modern interiors softened by just the right mix of subtle, special details, from fine antiques to timeworn textiles. Here, she shares with Luxe what drives those designs. jinteriordesigns.com What role does simplicity play in your designs? I love creating a canvas for people to live life in, and for me that looks like a simpler, more neutral palette with the occasional funky wallpaper thrown in. Starting with this base of simplicity allows my clients and me to build a design that fits their specific needs. That explains your affinity for white spaces. I do have a love affair with white spaces, and I will usually paint an entire house the same white shade to create that great backdrop against which I can layer different textures to create a calm, cohesive space. For example, I have been loving 064 / luxesource.com
dramatic lighting fixtures that act as sculptural elements, and I have also been focusing on furniture that incorporates textiles and woven elements that add dimension to a room. What sparks your creativity when combining decor elements? The interesting ideas coming and going in the fashion world often inform my approach. I love clothing and textile design and find that it’s a nice way to get me thinking outside the box. Locally, a trip to the Denver Botanic Gardens always sparks my creativity—the colors and textures always seem to show me new combinations I can use.
SHELF LIFE WORKING TITLE WRITTEN BY ANGELA HAMILTON
The fourth monograph published by celebrated architect Tom Kundig and Princeton Architectural Press follows Kundig across the region and around the globe for an inside look at 29 recent projects in residences, hospitality, culture and more. Full-color photos, plans and sketches fill its pages, along with excerpts from Kundig’s University of Washington Distinguished Alumni Award acceptance speech and a conversation with Michael Chaiken, curator of the Bob Dylan Archive. Working Title highlights the vast interpretations of Kundig’s signature style as reflected in recent launches like Seattle’s Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture and luxury clothier Shinsegae International’s new 15-story headquarters in Seoul. papress.com WRITTEN BY CHRISTINE DEORIO
the insider photo: lindsey drewes photography. meet the maker photos: michael smith at mber creative@mbercreative. shelf life photo: nic lehoux.
JAMIE NUSSER