In the current economic and business environment of frothy financial markets evidenced by overpriced companies, ridiculous merger/acquisition valuations, mega private equity funds, cheap debt and no real signs of a macro shock in sight, it is quite endearing to see art/fashion/decor getting in on the act.
Christiane Lemieux, a veteran of the decor world who has held gigs that include Fabric Assistant for Isaac Mizrahi, Assistant Designer at GAP, Design Director at Portico, Founder of Dwell Home Furnishings, Founder of DwellStudio, Author of the book ‘Undecorate’, Creative Director at Wayfair, Judge on Ellen’s Design Challenge TV show, Co-founder of Cloth & Company, etc., just scored a $1.5 million seed round funding for a new company called ‘The Inside’.
The Inside has a goal to bring cool, fresh and reasonably-priced interior décor quickly through your doors – at the pace of fast fashion – Christiane aims to get items ordered to you in two weeks (at the latest). And we are not talking crappy Ikea-style pieces – we are talking accent pieces that have both character and utilitarian muscle. The Inside will also periodically collaborate with big-name designers; its launch features capsule collections by Clare V. and Peter Som. Ms. Lemieux little secret is a nique fabric printer that can print a wide variety of designs onto natural fibers that can then be placed on ottomans, headboards, benches, stools, etc. The speed of delivery is made possible by an established relationship with UPS and the reasonable prices come from the fact that inventory will not have to be stored for long – this is a truly a made-to-order-and-ship venture. Prices start at about $70. See some of the items below.
The $1.5 million seed financing comes from Forerunner Ventures, an e-commerce/retail venture firm managed by Kristen Green. Kristen has historically invested in other successful companies like Birchbox, Dollar Shave Club and Bonobos to mention just a few. Christiane credits Kristen with helping to crystallize the business concept and instigating her to take the full leap in September and formally launch.
Christiane manages to always stay busy and is also currently through a partnership with Amazon Home and Kin Community hosting a YouTube show called Overhaul where she goes to the homes of social media star sto perform décor makeovers or just give interior design advice. See an episode below.
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