Working with Jimmy Butler and being a part of an Architectural Digest feature is hands-down one of the highlights of my career. The process of bringing Jimmy's vision to life, and then seeing it immortalized in such an iconic publication, felt like a dream come true.
And along with an incredible amount of love and support (thank y'all), I've received quite a few questions about my experience. So join me as I take you behind the scenes and answer some of the most frequently asked ones:
What was your thought process when taking on this project?
When Jimmy first approached me about designing his Southern California residence, he mentioned his intentions for it to be a "forever home." And with that, I knew it had to be something special. I looked to create something that felt like his own personal oasis while also ensuring the space was somewhere he could host all his friends and family, begin new ventures, and watch his kids grow - a place that would develop alongside him and always feel like home no matter what.
What did you enjoy most about being behind the scenes?
Honestly, it's hard to pick! Watching the AD team work and capture the essence of the home was inspiring, exciting, and just straight up cool! Their team was incredible, and they truly understood how to highlight the best aspects of Jimmy’s home. Listening from the sidelines as Jimmy talked about his home (not to mention roast me) was also unreal. It was not only validating but hilarious. Absolutely amazing experience - 10/10.
How did you bring Jimmy’s vision to life?
Jimmy was clear from the start - he wanted his home to feel like an oasis. Not just for him, but for his family and friends, too. He’s all about creating memorable experiences, whether it's a laid-back Sunday or a celebratory night after a big win. So, I focused on blending style and comfort. We chose durable, high-quality materials that can handle a little wear and tear but still look ultra-stylish. We sourced both mass-produced and custom pieces to ensure we covered all his needs. And made it our mission to include not just one, but two spaces dedicated to his favorite game: dominos. Of course, keeping Jimmy and his team in the loop was a vital part of bringing his vision to life - open communication is key!
How long did it take?
We started in late 2020 and got done with the main house and coffee shop around June, just in time for the shoot. And it's not over yet! We're currently working on other parts of the property, so stay tuned!
Is it different to design homes for athletes?
Definitely! Designing for athletes comes with a unique set of challenges. Their careers require extensive travel, and their lifestyles often call for unique accommodations, ultimately influencing their home's needs in ways that differ from most residential spaces.
Plus, depending on the sport and the individual, standard sizing doesn’t always cut it, so we often need to customize things more than usual to ensure they feel comfortable and right at home.
For me, it’s not just about the beauty of the space; it’s about crafting environments where people can live their best lives. Jimmy’s home reflects his journey, his tastes, and his personality, and being able to design that for him was an honor.
Plus, ya know, hanging out behind the scenes of an AD shoot wasn’t half bad either (;