Big Little Luxuries: How Cultural Traditions from Around the World Reveal the Essence of Rare Pleasure in the 21st Century (Working title, Fall 2025)
For over a decade, I’ve traveled off-the-beaten-path, meeting inspiring people who design, create, and share stories of their cultural traditions—stories rich with wisdom that offer powerful solutions to today’s biggest challenges. In the process, I’ve discovered what I call ‘rare pleasures,’ the true essence of luxury, grounded in authenticity, sustainability, and deep meaning.
My book explores design and cultural production from around the world, uncovering how these traditions can teach us what luxury means in the 21st century. It’s a design and travel book that serves as the perfect coffee table staple—bridging conversations between cultures, celebrating craftsmanship, and honoring ancestral knowledge.
From Uganda to Israel, Senegal to Italy, France to Kenya, there are invaluable teachings and beautiful traditions that risk being drowned out in the name of progress. Inspired by my mentor, Dr. Jane Goodall, I’ve delved into the intersection of sustainability and luxury—and discovered many surprising parallels. While my research began during my master’s studies in interior design and is grounded in academia, this book is for anyone interested in design, curious about culture, passionate about art, or eager to contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future.
