Betsy Pash '79

I think several things let me to antiques and design. First, I lived and studied in France for a year in college and was exposed to beautiful art and design. I learned to speak French and knew I wanted to get back there someday. After college, I worked at the Smithsonian for ten years, which also inspired me. My move to New York was a turning point. As much as I missed Virginia (and still do!), I availed myself of the many unique opportunities here. I visited museums and took classes at NYU, Parsons School of Design and the Isabel O'Neill School of Decorative Painting. All these steps in my life led me to open my business more than 12 years ago.

To me, an interior is so much more interesting when it is a mix of styles and materials. I find that a very contemporary room filled with glass and chrome is a bit cold and needs the warmth of an antique or two to ground the space and give it "a soul." On the other hand, walking into a room with all "brown furniture" feels very boring. In my opinion, one can breathe new life into an antique chest by putting a fabulous contemporary painting over it. Each element complements the other. One 's eye needs variety!

Classic, with a bit of a twist. It is fun to wear a classic dress with some unexpected shoes (i.e. animal print or bright red patent leather heels).  And same with decoration--I love to add some lucite or a mid-century glass chandelier to a traditional room. Add interest with the unexpected!

I loved that it was a small, cozy environment.  I love even more the friendships that I formed at SAS that still endure to this day!