Family
Move to the Country to Find Inspiration.
At
Laia Aguilar and Felipe Cano, Pablo and Adriana
This week we’re taking a breath of fresh air in Spain to meet the mysterious and magnetic Laia Aguilar. Former stylist for Bobo Choses, Laia is back with a new brand, The Animals Observatory ! An enigmatic name for a brand of children’s clothing that’s youthfully striking. It is a wide collection of elaborate prints and soft fabrics. Recognisable among all, Laia’s style takes inspiration from Japan. Terribly pioneering, The Animals Observatory offers an alternative to the commonplace in the world of children’s fashion. The style is casual and modern for bright-minded children living in the moment. The Socialite Family went to meet with her to discover her world and understand her inspirations. Her unique look may be off-the-beaten-track but seduces us beyond all. Laia’s interior exudes a surprising serenity. Her strength lies within the work of her family whilst living in countryside without any mundane cacophony. That’s something we like…
Location
BARCELONA
TSF
Laia, could you introduce yourself?
Laia
I’m Laia Aguilar, founder and creative director of The Animals Observatory, a kidswear brand established in 2015. Founder and former creative director of Bobo Choses from 2008 to 2014. Mother of Adriana, 6 years old and Pablo. I live in Pontós, a very small village at Alt Empordà, in the countryside of Barcelona. We live with Enzo, our wonderful dog. So, I’m a very happy woman and I’m already 40 years old.
TSF
How long have you lived here with your family?
Laia
We have been living here since May 1st, 2004.
TSF
What first attracted you to this apartment?
Laia
The light and the materials, they are very raw which is absolutely attractive for me.
TSF
Where do you spend your time in the house? Your favourite place?
Laia
I really love to sit on the step at the entrance of the house, or on the street… sometimes, when the sun comes down my husband and I sit there with Enzo, our dog, a very cold beer and we talk about our respective days.
TSF
Did you decorate yourself ?
Laia
Yes… The pity is that I’ve never enough time to dedicate to my home
TSF
Where did you get your inspiration for The Animals Observatory? And for your home?
Laia
Everywhere… I always have my iPhone, a notebook and pen in my bag. I catch the ideas from the street, from magazines, Pinterest, movies, anywhere and everywhere really! I just need to be alert with my eyes wide open. When I was looking for a name for the new brand and The Animals Observatory came to mind I was really happy because I think that this name contained everything that we really want to tell… instinct, observation the world and the mood of animals. The relationship between animals and humans, parents and sons, it really sums up everything The Animals Observatory is about.
TSF
What is the mood of The Animal Observatory? The spirit? What kind of kids is it for?
Laia
The Animals Observatory aims to be the clothing brand of our children’s children. Timeless in trends that really have nothing to do with fashion, it’s about being close to little family stories. The central influence on my designs for The Animals Observatory is perhaps the animal world seen through the eyes of a child, with curiosity, empathy and excitement.
TSF
Does your husband join in and give his opinion?
Laia
Absolutely, for me it is a pleasure to share with him the evolution of my work, my collections and my designs.
TSF
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Laia
Passionate, hardworking and a little intransigent.
TSF
What is your current interior design must-have?
Laia
TSF
The best holidays with your family?
Laia
Last summer in Menorca, with my family !
