Friend of Graza: Susan Korn
Q: How do you describe yourself?
S: A lot in one!
Q: Finish this sentence, cooking for me is...
S: Art
Q: What would be a perfect day of eating in New York for you?
S: Wake up early, have a coffee in bed with a splash of cream on top. Breakfast at home, toasted seedy bread with salted butter, sautéed greens and low and slow cooked tomatoes. Lox, a hard goat cheese and of course a drizzle of olive oil on top! Lunch would be Cafe Sabarsky, make a herring sandwich. Espresso and apple strudel with chantilly cream for dessert. Dinner at Omen, sashimi, all the salads and rice. Dessert would be anywhere I can sticky rice with mango (Wayla or Thai Diner perhaps!)
Q: Your brand has a big focus on the beauty and joy that the small things bring. What are some small things that recently or are currently making you happy?
S: The smell of my dog's breath, the show "My Brilliant Friend", when my plants sprout little buds, Berkey water filters, when the weather is warm enough for a bike ride.
Q: The world of Susan Alexandra has grown from the iconic original bags to include everything from lighter case accessories to olivey Judaica, glass blown fruit bowls, beaded planters, and more. What is your favorite project or piece you've made?
S: Every new piece somehow becomes my favorite piece! I love our custom pet necklaces, they're so soulful and special. I love our Enchanted Garden Tissue Box and the Asparagus Menorahs!
Q: What and who do you look to for inspiration?
S: Film, travel, cinema.
Q: Are there any kitchen tools or gadgets you'd love to Susan-Alexandra-ify?
S: Everything. It would be a dream to make beautiful pots and pans, coffee makers, spatulas, carafes, tea pots, silverware..and on and on and on!
Q: Speaking of kitchens––how did you approach designing your own kitchen and home? Does the maximalism of the brand carry over to your personal space?
S: My home is filled with special little details, postcards on the fridge, props from fashion week, dog whiskers taped to the wall. I love a home that feels honest and personal to the people who live in it.
Q: Are there any mottos, words of wisdom or philosophies that you live by?
S: You are where you're meant to be.
Q: What's on the horizon for you?
S: Hopefully more beautiful things.
