With the onslaught of the economic recession, many small businesses in San Diego have fallen victim to its tumultuous side effects, having to renounce their trade for more lucrative ventures.
Below the surface, however, many innovative movers and shakers have found a new niche within the brute economic situation. Such locals have revitalized and transformed their businesses into more financially stable institutions at affordable means.
Sitting down with Kristi Steffen, owner of Station Boutique in Little Italy, I found out just how one small business owner was able to tackle the recession and turn her once luxury clothing store into an on-demand home décor shop.
“Ironically, my initial concept in the very beginning, while planning the business model back in 2006, was to focus on home décor,” says Steffen. “I wanted to encourage and enhance my interior design business by showcasing housewares, lighting, small scale furniture and unique accessories. I basically wanted tangible items that you could take away and put in your home immediately.”
Entering the eclectic space, it is easy to see how fashion ended up playing the larger role in Kristi’s original shop. Sleek metal racks along the back walls display an assorted array of staple pieces for both men and women, including a unique unisex collection of the oh-so-comfortable (and charitable) Toms shoes.
Once known for high-end clothing and a side of take-home décor, Station is now transforming into a design co-op with emphasis on the home rather than the person.
“San Diego needed an establishment that carried great brands and provided an intimate, boutique environment at the same time,” says Steffen. “Yet, now it just seems fitting to go back to the drawing board and provide merchandise, wares and services that will enhance the endeavors that will be part of this creative collaboration.”
The already exuberant collection of clothing and textiles at the boutique has paved the way for the prominent whimsical wares and arty furnishings to come this year. Festooned throughout Station, patrons can find Jonathan Adler’s collection of eccentric needlepoint pillows and ceramics, simply chic Thomas Paul rugs and pillows, ornate Jamie Young lighting fixtures and pure soy Kobo candles.
“I’m very excited to share the co-op experience and new concept with other designers and retail business owners,” says Steffen. “It’s refreshing to have new ideas, products and business practices come your way, and at the end of the day, I am still so thrilled to be part of the design concept in the community of Little Italy.”
If you’re a bit behind on your spring cleaning, this sunny weather should serve as a reminder to let go and refresh for the new summer season. Discover expert insight into the top ways to add an extra ounce of zest to your dreary winter home without having to put a dent in your wallet.
Kristi’s Top Five Design Tips for the Simple-Minded
Clear Out Your Closets: The first step to transform your home from the dull chill of winter is to clear out all old clothes and make some extra space for spring and summer attire. Kristi finds that the Container Store and IKEA offer functional, yet fashionable containers and stackables to help organize and provide for extra closet space.
Clean Your House: Besides getting rid of 2006’s ratty clothing, Kristi says the second best way to renew your home is to give it a good old fashioned scrub down. Dust, mop, wipe down your blinds – leave you home smelling fresh and clean.
Painting: There’s nothing that adds a little bit of shine to a room than giving the walls a nice shiny coat. Paint is cheap and affordable and can easily give any room a pinch of zest.
Changing all Linens: As easy as it may be to stick to the same sheets and towels year round, buying new linens to enliven a room is a reasonable and inexpensive necessity. And hey, you can always switch them around as the seasons change.
Adding a Candle: Last but not least, Kristi believes that everyone – guys included – should splurge on a beautiful, scented candle.
Kristi’s Top Three Hot Design Trends
Needlepoint Pillows: Station offers a wide array of unique pillows. Throw a few on your couch or spice up a plain colored bed set.
Bright Colors: Kristi’s favorite colors for spring and summer are orange, pink and navy. Bold, poppy shades of orange, especially tangerine and hot pink, are bright and eye-catching.
Atriums: A perfect way to bring any garden lover’s delight indoors…
One of the newest lines to be featured at Station is the modern Tend Living atriums. The sustainable, eco-interactive living gardens offer an imaginative way to look at nature in its most serene environment. The array of globular sculptures to choose from display a variety of lush plant life that thrives in low light, bright light or full sun. Tend atriums are feasible additions to bring life to your home and are easily manageable, requiring a little H2O TLC once a week.
For more home décor tips and trends, visit Kristi at Station Boutique in Little Italy. Originally a high-end clothing boutique with a stylish side of take-home décor, Station is now a leading design co-op with emphasis on the home rather than the person.
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