confidence as a woman and a designer. “I think there was kind of an epiphany that my work is not about looking at pretty things, it’s really about creating an atmosphere. It’s pretty powerful working with clients to create that atmosphere—to really get something right for them. It’s not just a job; it feels larger. Realizing that it is about how people feel when they’re living in their house and how important that is—that’s what I realized I needed to focus on.” When Eyles truly embraced the business side of her career, creativity flourished. “It was almost as if once I realized that had to be a focus, then I didn’t have to worry as much about the creativity. I was able to be freer.” Eyles’s experience is one to which many women can relate. “For me, it was about learning to appreciate myself and saying that my job is as important as any other thing that’s going on in my life. That was hard for me to do, and I think it’s hard for a lot of women to do. We’re givers, and maybe we don’t always give back to ourselves.” Eyles is an avid traveler and draws inspiration from the places she visits, infusing a global sensibility into her work. “Every time you travel, you see something new and you experience something new. You feel a textile, you see a color, and it’s maybe a combination you’ve never seen before. It’s wonderful to bring that inspiration back to our clients. It’s great to have that new kick that gets you a foothold for a new project.” Recently, Eyles traveled to Rome where she was captivated by the rich colors and patterns of the floors in particular. “Generally, I like a cleaner look overall, but to see all of the beautiful mosaic floors—the colors and the richness and the depth—that was incredibly inspiring. I love bringing those layers back into my work.” She is hoping to go to Japan next year for the “trip of a lifetime.”
Art
is hugely important to the interior environment, and Eyles works with clients to build their collection or to incorporate into the design the art they have already curated. “It’s so important to buy artwork to support artists because they are always telling stories and speaking in a language that helps us grow. I love to support female artists, but there are plenty of people that I’m excited
Linda is guided by the core belief that each home should be a unique reflection of her clients’ tastes and sensibilities; she tailors her designs—ranging from classic to contemporary—to each project. IMAGES COURTESY OF LINDA EYLES / LINDAEYLESDESIGN.COM
le printemps 2023 • l’édition pour animaux de compagnie et mode • readelysian.com •
37
