He travels all around the world to find the latest home decor trends. Sebastien has a very important position at Urban Barn, the home decor giant that just opened a location in DIX30. Here he answers to the Luxury Insiders questionnaire.

What does luxury mean to you?

The definition of luxury is different for everyone. It can be something that charms us, that excites us, that sparks something in us, or that brings something different to us. To me, luxury is found in the surprising, unexpected details.

It is something that is out of the ordinary, like being offered cucumber and pickle infused water or even drinking a mimosa for breakfast on a work day.

Luxury is being able to make choices without constraints. It’s having the opportunity to relax, and to enjoy life. For example, I have the privilege of going on vacations when and where I want to.

In our spaces, luxury can be seen as spending a little bit more money on quality furniture and accessories. But, at the end, it’s more of an investment.

How would you describe what you do for a living?

I give myself the duty of bringing to my clients decor items inspired from my travels. My goal is to find products that my clients can “relate” to, and allow them to create spaces that represent them, their lifestyle and their personality.

What are the first things you do when you wake up?

I have a routine that I follow every morning, without exception. I prepare a long espresso, and then I go back to bed with my coffee, where I watch the news on RDI. I watch the news in French in order to stay up to date with the news in Quebec, but I also like the idea of being three hours ahead of my British-Colombian friends and colleagues.

What passionates you in your job?

When an idea becomes a reality, a tangible item that people use. I love this process that consists of going from a concept, to an idea, to an inspiration and then to a product.

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?

Our clients. I like listening to them and understanding their choices and what they are looking from. I do have to admit that travelling is also something that inspires me tremendously. Discovering new countries, other lifestyles and new trends definitely enhances me and brings me so much, both personally and professionally.

What would you say to people who wish to work in this field?

I would tell them that they need to be passionate about it, to be open-minded and to be able to appreciate others and their ideas. Teamwork is also very important, as well as understanding everyone’s role; newcomers, or people who have years of experience in the industry. We all have a role to play and collaboration allows you to learn. Design wise, I would say that being to put yourself in someone else’s shoes is crucial. I don’t buy products for myself, but for my clients. Therefore, knowing what pleases others is very important.

Who are your biggest inspirations?

Without hesitating, the two founders of Urban Barn: Craig Stewart and Rick Bohonis. They are fearless, hard workers, and visionaries. They gave me this once in a lifetime experience and helped me understand the industry. They trust me, and allowed me to learn from my mistakes. I owe them a lot.

What are the most important qualities needed for your job?

My job requires changing environments often, so adaptation is key. Being able to concentrate for long and work long hours is also very important. And let’s not underestimate how easy it is to fall sleep anywhere, any time!

What are assumptions people make about your job or your industry?

People often think about the glamorous side of interior design online. Because I travel often for my job, people think that I am always on vacation. It is definitely a blessing to be able to travel all the time, but work and responsibilities come first.

What is the best tip or advice you’ve ever gotten?

There are always going to be obstacles, even failures, but for every situation, there are always solutions. You have to examine all your options before making a decision. And let’s not forget that the be