Today I am sharing a true artist and friend: Jorge Simes of Simes Studios. Jorge and his wife, Cindy, have run this Bucktown-based art studio for more than three decades, and somehow their art only gets more exciting with time.
Simes Studios is known nationally and internationally for its work in custom finishes and plasters, murals, Eglomise, gilding, ceilings and floors, and painted furniture. I recently commissioned two pieces of furniture from Simes Studios, which I love and are incredibly unique one-of-a-kind pieces. This is what Jorge and his team excel in: using old and new artistic techniques to customize a home itself, or the furniture that goes inside.
Originally from Argentina, Jorge and Cindy constantly travel the world looking for inspiration and new techniques. Their processes and styles constantly change and evolve, continually pushing the envelope. For example, Jorge’s team is currently working on a glass tabletop for me, transforming a piece of glass into a precious work of art.
One of Jorge’s favorite techniques is galled Eglomise, which is a French term dating back to the 18th century referring to the process of applying a design to one side of a glass mirror. The juxtaposition of this ancient technique combined with modern techniques and design is what makes Jorge’s work so special.
While it is possible to work on an installation for a pre-existing home, most of the Studios’ work is used in new construction or remodels. They communicate directly with the architect and interior designer to ensure exact measurements and placements.
If you are looking for ways to customize your home, I would highly recommend contacting Jorge and Simes Studios. Many times I watch people tempted by the trends of the moment, only to feel that they look outdated after just a few years. What I love about Simes Studios is that their techniques have stood the test of time – classic and timeless is always best!
