How I got into Architectural Digest

With a glimpse into Saie HQ

So it has been on my bucket list to have a feature in Architectural Digest for years. As a former magazine editor I revere the iconic title that have been able to reinvent themselves and yet stay true to their roots. Amy Astley (who was at Teen Vogue when I was in editorial) has done a genius job.

When we got the lease on our first Saie HQ in New York I wanted to design a space worthy of Architectural Digest and we did it! Just last week our story went live and it was all I could have dreamed of and more.

Here’s how I did it:

1. First, I tapped an AD approved designer. I was introduced to Shelly from Hyphen & Co. and we hit it off immediately. AD has a list of designers that they come out with every year so I knew working with one of them would be key.

2. Next, I didn’t do a traditional office. I wanted it to feel warm and inviting, more like a home. We worked with texture and colors to evoke hospitality and comfort. It truly doesn’t feel like an office when you walk in.

   As Shelly taught me: Minimalism doesn’t equal sterile. It was really important for me when designing our office that we stayed away from what a traditional office can feel like- sterile. Our team is always collaborating and sharing ideas and I wanted this space to reflect that. Shelly used a warm neutral and earthy color palette to soften the space while also including natural elements, such as our wooden stools and tables.

   And we wanted to maximize the minimum. We do it all at Saie HQ. From events, to meetings, to filming content, everything happens here. We maximized every square footage in order to have a space that can truly be versatile.

3. Lastly, I knew that our angle of sustainability would be interesting and different. We did things differently (like we do with every aspect of the brand) from the materials we chose to the items we thrifted and reused.

   Chic Design can be sustainable! This is maybe one of my favorite details of Saie HQ since one of our core values is sustainability and climate consciousness. Shelly took my vision of creating a sustainable work environment and designed something truly chic but still within the vision.

   Don’t be scared of color. Shelly did an incredible job of incorporating our signature Saie lilac to add pops of color throughout the office. Everything from the soft lilac lime wash finish on the walls of the entrance way and conference room to the our iconic lilac packaging. You notice the lilac without it being too overwhelming and overdone.

Find the full article at Architectural Digest! Happy reading:)

Xx,

Laney