MUST-HAVES
a piece of vintage fabric or a gorgeous remnant, and it completely changes into the eclecticism you see now in high-end decorating.
Where should we go to find great vintage pieces?
JB: I get most of my online vintage items from Etsy and I always check eBay because, many times, they share the same vendors, and they’re more affordable than 1stdibs or Chairish. One of my secrets is the International section. Years ago, I fell in love with suzani textiles, and they can be $350 and up in the U.S. But if you shop from Uzbekistan or Afghanistan, where those textiles are made, you can buy them for $50 to $60, and they often offer free shipping. I also search for alternate spellings and figure out what it’s called in the country of origin, because it may have a different name in the U.S. Searching different languages delivers different results.
What’s the easiest, cheapest way to refresh a space?
JB: There are many things that bring joy that cost a lot or are not accessible right now — like travelling or certain kinds of foods — but colour is a perfect way to bring joy into your home, and everyone can do it.
We’ve heard you converted your garage into a 300-square-foot casita… JB: Yes! Our house is small, about 1,050 square feet, and even though it’s just my husband, Jason, and my daughter, Ida, we thank God for the casita every day! The garage was built in 1926, and it was always too small for two cars. After living here for three years, we decided to knock out the wall, install French doors and block off a door for the bookshelves. Now it’s my home office, gym, music studio and laundry room. We use it in so many different ways, especially when it’s important to have some alone time. I’ll say,
“I’m going to the casita for an hour; don’t bother me!”
To learn how to decorate like Justina, visit houseandhome.com/sept2020
Oil Rush “Uma Antiaging oil is a real splurge because I’m frugal, but if I had to choose between wine and the oil, I would choose the oil — that’s how much I love it.”
Dress Up “I absolutely love Ace&Jig, which designs its own fabrics and recently extended its size range to be more inclusive. Plus, the brand has many initiatives for sustainability and social good. It checks all my boxes!”
Music Maker “I’ve been listening to Stevie Wonder on repeat. Joy! Joy! Joy!”
Book Smart “I’ve been on this kick where I’m reading books about money management, since Jungalow is a family business. The Millionaire Mind by Thomas J. Stanley has some really great tips.”