Jules Thomas
Owner and Creative Director, Maker Agent
As the owner and creative director of Seattle’s Maker Agent, Jules Thomas knows how a soothing serene home can balance out a fast-paced chaotic lifestyle. Her interiors are recognized for their luxurious finishes and floor-to-ceiling elegance that cater to a lifestyle of livability–not perfection. The designer journeys from one destination to another to source material and inspiration from around the world including Scandinavia, Morocco and, most recently, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Expect to see these international influences in her upcoming projects. Curated with her keen eye, Thomas’ Seattle itinerary emphasizes quality of life–complete with dancing and an ashram.
8 a.m. Start the day with Kate Wallich’s Dance Church–a free-form movement class at Velocity Dance Center on Capitol Hill. It’s 90 minutes of pure fun that leaves you energized and fulfilled.
9 a.m. After class, walk south on 12th Avenue to JuiceBox for a healthy breakfast. Or, if you’re feeling famished from the class, continue down the same street to Cafe Presse for a croque-madame.
10 a.m. Just a few blocks away, check out The Elliott Bay Book Company for hard-to-find publications, book reviews and art books. It’s the ultimate cozy spot.
11 a.m. If you want to live in a home that tells a distinctive story, there’s no better place to shop than Marine Area 7. Check out the vintage kitchenware, found objects or hostess gifts for the pantry. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the owner for cooking advice or wine recommendations.
12 p.m. For your next stop, make your way to Georgetown for soulful Mexican food at Fonda La Catrina or central-Texas-style barbecue at Jack’s BBQ. Either one makes for a delicious and authentic lunch in a relaxed atmosphere.
1 p.m. Nearby are Kirk Albert and Susan Wheeler Home–two of my favorite spots for one-of-a-kind treasures and vintage pieces. Don’t miss Fran’s Chocolates‘ retail jewel box and production facility in the Rainier Cold Storage building. This part of town is full of gritty, Bohemian architecture and cool shops.
2 p.m. For an intimate experience, schedule a private tour with artist Louise Durocher and ask to see her brilliant garden. I love her large Carrara Bianco marble piece, Ubusu.
3 p.m. Across the Fremont Bridge, explore the Ballard neighborhood. Captain’s Supplies is the best shop for telescopes, which is a great gift for a client whose second home is a yacht or in the islands, or whose first home has fabulous Seattle views.
4 p.m. For the ultimate yoga experience, there’s no better place than The Ashram with Gary Olson in Kirkland or Claudia Alabiso in Bellevue. It’s worth the trip across the 520 Bridge five days a week.
6 p.m. If you are a tequila or mezcal aficionado, stop by The Saint for the best selection in the city.
7 p.m. After a day of exploring, you’ve earned dinner at Lark. I love tucking into one of their booths. Oysters from their raw bar upstairs are a must–especially for a girl who grew up next to the best shellfish beds in Olympia. Afterward, check out a curated exhibition at Vignettes for multidisciplinary art and performances.
