Who is Laura Kirar?
Sculptor and interior architect from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, passionate creator, collector and businesswoman based between San Miguel de Allende and Mérida. For years, Laura Kirar has been a reference in interior design and furniture thanks to her sensitivity to design spaces and functional objects that could easily be pieces of art.
Through her studio, Laura Kirar Design, she and her team are responsible for translating and materializing her most innovative ideas into canvases ranging from a luxurious residence to award-winning restaurants and hotels; as is the case of Hidalgo Inn, an exclusive and cozy guest house that was designed from corner to corner by Laura herself, in an effort to share with the world what she is most passionate about.
In addition to the studio, Laura Kirar Brand – through its different collections of furniture, lighting and textiles – has been present for almost 20 years in the most vibrant and stylish homes in the world. It is its natural versatility and elegance that have earned it international recognition, as well as alliances and collaborations with important global design and interior firms.
The protagonist of LOCAL March 2021
For our new edition of LOCAL, and in light of March being International Women's Month, we wanted to portray a brave, visionary and inspiring figure from San Miguel, and who better than Laura Kirar to be the protagonist? We had the opportunity to exchange some thoughts with her about art and design, and why she chose SMA as her center to develop and expand her talent and creativity.
Laura Kirar: “San Miguel is the place to be…”
L: Why choose San Miguel de Allende?
LK: For its history, its architecture… Its light and its spirit of freedom in the creative community!
L: What did you find here that you didn't find anywhere else?
LK: A caring and talented group of locals who feel like family. They're all making fun things happen here.
L: Mesón Hidalgo is a place like no other, how did the concept of this guesthouse come about?
LK: With Mesón Hidalgo I wanted to create an environment of exquisite, expressive, unique and constantly evolving experiences. I was inspired by the character and vibe of the architecture of the house itself, and my muse is the community of people cool of all ages.
L: Tell us about Micho (one of your dogs), definitely your most popular 'son'. What was it like creating a brand around him?
LK: Micho is a huge inspiration to me because he has such a natural attitude and style. He definitely doesn't know he's a dog and he's the smallest one. I wanted to create clothes for him and his canine friends that were stylish enough for a human to wear. No X-rated pet clothes for Micho!
L: There has always been a battle of egos between designers and artists. Do you really believe that there is a line that separates design from art and vice versa?
LK: That's right. What separates art from design is presenting an idea that communicates meaning, that goes beyond aesthetics or function. My pieces always blur the line between design and art: there is a reason behind every element, it's not just about how it looks.
L: From your perspective and experience, what is in store for Mexican design in the near future, especially for the local scene?
LK: I think what we'll see in San Miguel is more creatives coming in, more spaces opening up to expand ideas and create an even stronger community of artists and designers. And I'm predicting some amazing collaborations in the near future.
We are very grateful to Laura for all the facilities for this edition of LOCAL. Visit laurarkirar.com to learn more about her work and follow her on Instagram to take a look at his daily life. You can also follow Micho on Instagram and learn about their line of accessories at casademicho.com
Find LOCAL March 2021 in Hotels, restaurants, concept stores, galleries and all the hotspots around San Miguel de Allende and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to find out about new places and everything that's happening in the city.
