Introducing Merle & Pat, two creative directors who’ve been a couple for over 12 years, whose shared passion for monochrome aesthetics has shaped their design vision.
Hi dear ones! We are delighted to have you. How long have you been together and how did you meet?
We were introduced to each other by a common friend. That was over 12 years ago when we were still living in Hamburg. Funnily enough, her birthday is on February 14th, which makes her our own personal Valentine. 🤍
What’s the strongest bond you share?
Complete trust in each other and openness with each other. There’s nothing we don’t share.
Your favourite common activities?
M: Restaurant visits. We both come from the restaurant industry. I've worked as a barista and bartender almost longer than I've done design in my life. I used it to finance my studies and loved it very much.
P: I come from a gastronomy family and also worked in gastronomy for years.
That's what brought us together right from the start: our love of good food. Food is definitely our love language.
Best city for a weekend trip and for a long vacay?
For a weekend trip we like a city that is walkable, offers good food and art, and is preferably by the sea. Marseille ticks all the boxes. For a longer vacay we would always recommend LA as we share a strong bond with the city and have family there. We could spend weeks visiting LA’s iconic mid-century modern houses.
How did you learn about uncommon matters, and where did you buy your first piece?
M: Actually, through Nella. Her curated exhibitions have introduced us to quite a few brands. I bought my first piece, the 'tubular collar', directly from you, Amélie. I've wanted this collar for a long time because I love eye-catching pieces of jewelry, and it enhances every outfit. It's just such a bold statement piece and super minimalist at the same time. I've loved it ever since.
What does love mean to you?
Support the other person to be his/her happiest self, and that they give that back to you.
How would you describe your partner in a painting?
M: Minimalist, organized but with a lot of depth, like a Frank Stella painting from his black series.
P: Bold and vibrant, yet smooth and sensual, like a Georgia O’Keeffe painting.
What is one thing that annoys you about your partner, and do you think this gift will ever stop giving?
We are similar and yet different. Nothing really annoys us, but we often have different views. Despite this, we complement each other. What may upset us about each other at times is ultimately what keeps our relationship alive. Sounds cheesy, but a little bit like yin and yang.
Where do you see your relationship in 15 years?
Still inspiring each other, keeping an open mind, exploring the world, and living the life we designed together.
And how can we spread more love in these troubled times?
Kindness. It’s mostly the key to everything. Be gentle with each other and give everyone in the world a break. Help where you can—carry an old lady’s groceries, give food to the homeless, wish your colleagues a good weekend, buy someone a coffee. Everyone is struggling with something. Without love and kindness for one another, what would be left? Use your strength to stand up for those who can’t. And of course: go and vote against the shift to the right that is currently taking place.
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