Nomenclature

wondering what MERBOH means? 

Well, you’re in the right place so let’s cut to the chase:

(MER) Mercantilism | A word that evolved through Medieval Latin and French to its current English form signifying of or relating to merchants, trade, or commerce.

(BOH) Bohemian | A word that evolved from a French association of Romani people with the Czech region of Bohemia, later becoming synonymous with that which is free-spirited.

MER is first because I often gravitate toward things with sleek and assertive properties (think hard metals) but I also really appreciate things that are tactile and relaxed (think soft textiles)—cue the BOH. My ideal split is 80/20 respectively.

I’m not sure how or when the merger (MER + BOH) popped into my head, but I distinctly remember flipping through a design magazine (as I often do) and staring at a brilliant space that perfectly illustrates the spirit of MERBOH.  The picture that had me drooling is shown — It’s hard to articulate with words, but the design elements are like science + mathematics (laws & absolutes) mixed with literature + music (freedom & self-expression) — Similar to the masculine and the feminine in a ratio that favors the former.  I just love how the cold metal elements (desk, lamps, bedframe) play with the warm soulful energy of the rug, while the whitish walls and bedlinens broker the union (like a moderator) — Genius! 

Source/Credit: Mye Coates

Source/Credit: FLOR Magazine

If nothing else, know this — MERBOH is synonymous with a conversation, like white noise, there’s always chatter in my work as I love the energy (tension) created when objects with polarizing properties come together — It’s quite literally an exchange (the trading of) discrete parts to create a more thoughtful and dynamic whole.

If you’re still not sure what MERBOH is about, check out the inspo pics shown because a picture is worth a thousand words! :)