inspiration//

cristiana  

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Being with Cristiana is Italian smooth.

 

 

We don’t generally think of Italians as calm and understated, but Cristiana Downey challenges that notion with her uber-cool air. Being with Cristiana always feels like settling into a Renaissance garden and experiencing that state of contemplative freedom that gives rise to so much beauty in the world.

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Born and educated in Florence, Cristiana carries the timeless elegance of fine art and refined design within her very nature. Her professional journey, including studying and working with respected designers in Italy, Switzerland and the United States, has equipped her with a keen ability to shape brand identities, craft campaigns, and design beautiful packaging for over two decades. However, it is not just the extensive creative output that truly captivates. Cristiana is deeply soft-spoken, always warmly present, and profoundly welcoming. She possesses a rare, gentle way of listening and reflecting, which allows her to transform even the most casual discussion into a moment of thoughtful and beautiful style, like the effortless drape of a cashmere shawl over an antique chair, or the creamy white foam of a perfect cappuccino resting in a simple porcelain cup.

 

This inherent grace was put to the ultimate test recently following a devastating motorcycle accident. Cristiana endured a very long recovery process, but I would not have known about the extent of her pain from our casual conversations. Cristiana  rebuilt her life and strength with the same unwavering gracefulness that has always defined her. Cristiana's resilience is a testament to the peace she creates with her presence in spite of all odds.

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