ABOUT SUZANNE

Suzanne Duin is the founder and interior designer behind Maison Maison. Since establishing her Houston shop in 1997, Suzanne has been celebrated for her discerning eye and expert knowledge of fine European antiques and art. From private residences and personal collections to one-of-a-kind art and custom accessories, her work is known for its authenticity and elegance. Her aesthetic is born of a well-worn passport – she has traveled the globe shopping for Maison Maison, and experiencing first-hand, people and cultures around the world.

Suzanne’s love of design began at an early age, watching her interior designer mother work with clients and create inviting interiors. She studies both Art History and Interior Design at the University of Texas at Austin. Suzanne spent her young adulthood living part-time in and around Europe, where she fell in love with the museums, the food, the people, and, ultimately, the antiques – a passion she still holds today.

When she’s not on buying trips in France, Italy, Spain, England, or stateside, in Brimfield or Round Top, you’ll find Suzanne at her jewel-box of a shop in Houston’s River Oaks. We so enjoyed talking shop with Suzanne, and hope you enjoy!

Describe your style in three words or less:

Timeless, comfortable elegance.

What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:

Living in Europe, having a fabulously talented mother who was also an interior designer, and just traveling the world! Very fortunate!!

How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:

I got a divorce with three small boys and a life to ‘start over’ quickly! My wonderful parents backed me in starting Maison Maison and off I went on so many buying trips to the south of France for one container of finds after another, so I would guess the second part of your question would be ‘the thrill of the hunt’!

Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:

I truly value my peers and appreciate sharing inspirations!

What does your home say about you:

Well-traveled, classically inspired, and comfort is king!

Where do you find inspiration:

From my extensive travels and nature.

Who are your style icons:

In fashion: Audrey Hepburn, Jackie Onassis, etc. In Interior design: Bunny Williams, Charlotte Moss and Dan Carithers.

What are your key ingredients for entertaining:

Advanced preparation is the key element for a successful event!

Do you collect anything:

OH my yes!! Art, china, silver, antique textiles, books, etc….. I think others might call it an ‘addiction’!

Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:

There are many but to name of few: Mark Sikes Interiors, Roman and Ivy, James Farmer, secrets of a Hostess, @mgmbees, etc…

What design “rule” do you always follow, and which is made to be broken:

The standards of Palladian architecture like scale, etc. and always avoid anything ‘trendy’!

What are you working on right now:

My own historical home renovation! Funny enough the house is named ‘Legend’!

Wardrobe staples:

Always classic but focused on exquisite tailoring, and then you are never out of style!

Favorite fabric/wallpaper:

There are so many but….. most Pierre Frey fabrics and always love a de Gournay wallcovering!

Best interior advice you ever received:

Buy what you love and you will never tire of seeing it!

Best career advice you ever received:

Embrace your fears and just do it!

Types of home purchases you invest in:

Antique rugs, art.

Your greatest extravagance:

A Post Impressionist painting.

Favorite places to shop for home:

Well, of course, Maison Maison. But in London, Robert Kime, and anywhere in the south of France!

Most prized possession and why:

That above mentioned Post Impressionist painting—the most expensive purchase I have made to-date!

Your interiors motto:

‘Relax, camels have peed on this rug so it can handle whatever your ‘tribe’ can dish out! (great rugs make a room!)

Your life motto:

“Make no little plans, for they have no magic to stir men’s blood.” Daniel Burnham, American architect and on the spiritual side, Jeremiah 29:11 has carried me through my life always!!

Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:

Educate yourself with knowledge, learn, seek out to define what interiors bring you joy!

Take Ten: My Favorite…

Food: Well, I LOVE to cook but when pushed for an answer, Tex-Mex cuisine, Indian and Italian are my favorite comfort foods!

Drink: Daily would be Louis Latour CHAMEROY or when I am a really good girl, a wonderful Puligny-Montrachet!

Film: Delicious (French film with subtitles)

Hotel: Villa Feltrinelli in Lake Garda or La MIrande in Avignon

City: Paris

Bedding: Valombreuse Paris or Matouk in the US

Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): Like the French, start with a few natural sugar cubes and warm milk, then add the strong coffee/expresso!

Playlist: Depending on my mood and activity, Mozart to James Taylor and always Edith Piaf!

Weekend Activity: Cooking relaxes me and I love old movies! If I am lucky, I might get a nap

Design Book: So many in my collection but a few that come to mind: Cathy Kinkaid, Mark Sikes, currently but love Bunny Williams, and always Dan Carithers!