Talking Shop With Julia Buckingham
MODERNIQUE
Chicago designer Julia Buckingham is strengthening her ties to Arizona with the opening of her Modernique storefront in Phoenix’s Uptown Plaza. In her inaugural shop, she displays wares, furnishings, lighting, textiles and more–including custom pieces of Buckingham’s own design previously available only to the trade–all demonstrating her signature style of mixing genres and colors. “We provide design services for discriminating clientele all over the country who request a dose of whimsy and pleasure in their interiors,” she says. We chatted with Buckingham about the store, which will host monthly events, including book signings, art exhibits and trunk shows.
Why Uptown Plaza?
Uptown Plaza is in my blood! My grandparents, who were residents of Sun City back in the 1960s, used to shuffle all of us kiddos to shop at Uptown. We wore our best clothes and had a whole day of it together. Plus, the midcentury vibe is seriously a part of my design addiction.
Tell us about what’s on the floor.
In addition to my custom pieces, you’ll find brands like Global Views, Made Goods, Currey & Company, Materials Marketing, Root Cellar Designs and Black Crow Studios, along with art sourced from my favorite artisans.
What makes Modernique different from other showrooms?
Modernique is a lifestyle. It is a design aesthetic that has no rules or boundaries–a happy place that allows for color galore and pieces that make you smile, give pause and offer conversation.
