The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1480887
Maki's creative spirit and love for art led to a non-traditional career path. Aer moving to London to attend University, she fell in love with the old- world style and preservation on every corner of the city. e resemblance of English townhomes to the century- old brownstones in that of her native Brooklyn were both familiar and unique. Crystal recalls thinking, "What both New York and London did was expose me to all kinds of beauty". Living in both cities influenced her eye for design and would be key to her success later in life. Maki attributes her ability to predict evolving trends to being raised in one of the style capitals of the world. Growing up in a city of juxtaposing ideas; old and new, rich and poor, shiny and dull, dirty and clean, it was a balance of maximalism and minimalism that expanded her vision and kept her sharp. "NYC is a world of contradictions", it's glamorous and full of possibility. London is beautiful and steeped with history and tradition which makes me look at things from a different angle." she shared. Long before founding Silverwing Interiors, Maki worked in network television production at WNBC New York and Good Morning America, which fulfilled her need to hunt for stories and keep her finger on the city's ever-changing pulse. While the role developed her skills in creative storytelling and conducting thorough research, it simply wasn't her passion. Maki's next move took her into the publishing world before deciding to complete a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. She spent the next 10 years as a teacher. While Maki enjoyed that period of her life, she knew it wouldn't last long aer having children of her own. A handful of years aer her third child was born, she was ready for the biggest – and final – career move. Crystal Maki is the founder of Silverwing Interiors, an interior design firm that specializes in authentic, livable luxury for busy people. Her work takes her all over the country with current projects in Connecticut, New York's Upper East Side, Coastal New Jersey, and several large metropolitan suburbs. Her decade of experience combining trademark whimsy, timeless detail, and a brave eye for color breathes new life into any home. BY ROSY ALVAREZ Photo Credits: Emily Gilbert Photography Will Ellis Photography. Ciara Perrone. VUE ON | DESIGN VUENJ.COM 43