Oak Street has long been one of the city’s most charming corridors, still lined with locally-owned shops boasting a hodge podge of quirky and classic gems. Eclectic Home has anchored the street for more than two decades, offering new and customizable furnishings along with vintage and one-of-a-kind pieces. Owner Penny Francis, a nationally sought-after interior designer, offers us a glimpse into the vision and creativity that continue to shape both her work and the spirit of Oak Street.
What was the impetus for opening a home store? Owning a store had been a dream of mine since I was a teenager. I’ve always had a deep passion for art and design and was endlessly drawn to furniture and objects from a wide range of styles and periods. I realized there was an opportunity to bring together pieces that were not readily available and present them to an audience that truly appreciated timeless design, while also contributing to the richness, diversity, and unique design culture of New Orleans.
How has your original vision evolved since opening? My original vision was actually quite modest. I understood the risks, so I approached it carefully by renting a small 800-square-foot storefront on the first block of Oak Street.I believed in the character and history of the neighborhood. About five years in, as my business was taking off, Katrina happened. My family and I relocated to Houston, but we always knew New Orleans was home. While relocated, I unexpectedly ran into fellow Oak Street merchant Corey Strander, owner of Double M Feed. He asked if I would be interested in purchasing his building. With rebuilding incentives and tax credits it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I went from a 900-square-foot storefront to a 7,500-square-foot building almost overnight.
What do you feel you do best?
I communicate a clear design direction, both visually and technically, in a way that allows clients to fully understand the vision and ultimately achieve the results they are hoping for. Just as important, though, is listening. I believe great design begins with understanding how someone lives, what inspires them, and the story they want their home to tell.
What are some things you do that the public may not be aware of?
While many people know us for residential interiors, we also specialize in commercial design. In fact, one of my first commercial projects was in 2010, collaborating with Tara Hernandez and Woodward Design+Build on the Blue Plate Artist Lofts project. Additionally, the second story of our building is home to our extensive resource libraries filled with fabrics, tile, hardware, wallcoverings, and other materials we use to develop and present custom design concepts.
Any new, exciting products, events etc we should know about? We are currently exploring the development of exclusive fabrics and bespoke furnishings. And, I am also exploring the idea of writing a book!
Visit Eclectic Home at 8211 Oak Street, by calling 504-866-6654, or website eclectichome.net.
