Nestled in old town San Juan Capistrano, California, a block away from the mission, Whim Interior Design packs a big punch for any interior design, garden or jewelry enthusiast. The main store is housed in one of oldest structures in the mission town, the Avila Adobe built in 1833. They opened up a second store, Studio Pink, that is steps away. The store owners Eric Guenther and Daviell Maldonado have created the most unmistakeably unique and memorable shopping experience while showcasing their talents for exquisite jewelry and home design.
The entrance to the store has all things garden, including statuary's, ferns, urns, iron and waterfalls. You at once feel like you are entering a villa in Spain or somewhere far from the beaches of Southern California. Although, if you need a classy beach souvenir, this is the place. Who wouldn't love to take home anything on this console?
As you enter, you realize this is going to be an experience because you feel as if you are walking into a grand home. You first enter the living room, with it's grand pillars, art, sofas, chairs, books and accessories. Then you enter the next room that is decorated in a bold green style with accessories that look like a world traveler had collected them on their travels.
You will find the most unique treasures of all the land in each nook and cranny of this huge shop. Give yourself time to roam freely, as you won't want to miss any of the treats. They have a massive decor and travel book selection to browse through at your leisure.
Eric and Daviell acquire magnificent items that are handcrafted locally and custom made for their store and clients. The massive aqua mirror behind the console is just one of the spectacular custom mirrors that can be found to fit your castle.
And, there are the linens and pillows. Oh my... (Ha ha! We watched Wizard of Oz last night). This beauty is a favorite of mine. It has the most beautiful intricate detailing in this amazing crisp white linen. It is simply divine.
Here is the perfect place to grab a fabulous book and review it in leisure before you make your final purchase. Each of the many small to medium size rooms (approx. 8) that house their spectacular collections has a different color, feeling and tone. There is something here for everyone. It is the perfect destination to buy "the gift" for the most difficult people on your gift lists.
Oh yes, speaking of gifts. Daviell is a master jewelry designer and studied many years as a journeyman and has captured all the beauty life has to offer in his magnificent collection of quality items. There truly is something here for any one at any age and any gender.
And, there is the staff. What can I say but they are top notch. They are attentive, knowledgeable and personable. Most of the staff have worked in the store for years and their dedication and passion for what they do surely shows through to their clients.
If you are ever in the Southern California area, this is a shop to see. And, if you can't make it in you can call Eric Guenther for a personal interior design consultation. He travels the world spreading his magical transformational decorating talents.
You will find quality pieces from Baker, Milling Road, EJ Victor, Hancock and Moore, Karges, IPF, Century, Anichini, Whim Estate Collection, Asmara Rugs, Martha Steward by Bernhardt, and Whim Custom Upholstery. Whim is featured in shopkeeping on page 73 in this February issue of Romantic Homes Magazine. Cheers to them!
If you make it by, tell them who sent you.
31831 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 388-9600
whim-sjc.com
31831 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 388-9600
whim-sjc.com
xo,
Christina
Photo credits: 1 and 2 from Whim's website, other interior photos taken by me. Last two exterior photos found at yelp.
