A Modern Romance
Photography by ChiChi Ubina
Lizzie Baker & Amy Courage
Two designers whose lives have crisscrossed from New York to LA, have formed a new partnership, aptly called alchemy. Our vision is to blend East Coast classicism and sophistication with a California modern, airy, natural sensibility on residential projects Coast to Coast.
Having lived in California for last 28 yrs, Lizzie developed a deep appreciation for distinctive creativity and natural beauty. The recent fires in Pacific Palisades brought her back to her hometown of Greenwich, reminding her of how much she values the timeless charm of traditional New England homes and décor. With a background in textiles, custom rugs, and furniture Lizzie developed a keen eye for pattern, color, and texture. Combined with her passion for travel to many different cultures, her work is richly layered and deeply personal.
Amy grew up in the Midwest and spent summers in Northern Michigan which began her romance with elegant cottages, lake life, “the front porch” aesthetic and state of mind. She became an architect specializing in historic preservation and practiced in New York City for over 20 years. After several years and many moves she returned to her greatest passion – the cross-pollination of residential architecture and interiors. Her work is heavily rooted in classicism, but with a light and whimsical touch, combining elegance, charm and comfort. Amy’s work always nods to the past with a keen eye to the future.
Connecting with clients is at the heart of what we do. We love the collaboration in creating a home that is sophisticated, inviting and deeply joyful.
Tablescape Inspiration
Our table “A Modern Romance,” illustrates the alchemy of our shared aesthetics and sensibilities combining Southern California Organic Modern with East Coast Refined Elegance. The light oak, sculptural pedestal table, airy white-washed wicker chairs, New Zealand sheepskin hides, Abaca natural placemats are juxtaposed with Ginori Porcelain, traditional fine gold-rimmed china, collected estate sterling silver, rose-colored crystal, George Borgfeldt Cranberry sherbet glasses and hand painted ivory and gold taper candles. The table is canopied by large Magnolia branches, leaves lightly sprayed in gold, and birch branches creating a warm, romantic glow; naturally and effortlessly chic and inviting.
GUEST LIST
We would invite to our table good friends from LA who’ve been uprooted, physically and emotionally, by the California fires. We would listen to their stories of sadness and loss, how they’ve gathered themselves up and how they envision their lives going forward. Finally we would take a minute to find gratitude in the present and the richness in all of our lives.


