Simpatico, a word that describes the best kind of relationships—those that truly sing—also perfectly captures Andrew Fisher and Jeffry Weisman’s romance with San Miguel de Allende. Filled with Spanish baroque architecture, the colonial-era crown jewel of Guanajuato, Mexico, so captivated the pair—partners in both life and in their eponymous San Francisco interior design firm, Fisher Weisman Brugioni—that just a few years after their first dalliance with the city in 2011, they decided to put down roots there and start a line of lighting and home furnishings.
The Midas Sconce ($2,495) puts an organic spin on Art Deco drama.
Eric Zavala
Long and shapely, the Gilded Cage Large Pendant ($4,130) evokes hummingbird nests.
Eric Zavala“Living and working here allowed us to discover materials and learn about craft techniques that have evolved over generations,” says Weisman. “The collection would have happened if we had stayed in California, but it would have been very different!” Their Rope Chandelier, for example, is wrapped in sisal from Mérida and inspired by the Christmas piñatas that fill the streets of San Miguel in December, while the Gilded Cage Pendant is informed by the shape of hummingbird nests that hang from the trees.
Fisher’s skills as a sculptor shine in the Angel Table Lamp ($3,530).
Erik Zavala
Gleaming pendants hang from the Cairo Quatrefoil Suspended Sconce ($2,350).
Erik ZavalaPapier-mâché, which plays a starring role in many of the pieces, was a particular revelation. “It gives even our simplest, most contemporary designs an unexpected beauty and warmth,” notes Weisman. Happily, it also facilitates customization and keeps the pieces lightweight, which is a particular boon when it comes to larger fixtures. What’s more, it taps into an incredible network of women artisans who work at home—allowing them to have an income while looking after their families. “In a patriarchal society, that is a big deal. We are proud to help these women in our community, which in turn inspires us to grow our business,” says Weisman. Simpatico, indeed.
The Woodland Grand Sconce ($2,855) features delicate steel branches wrapped in papier-mâché.
Eric Zavala
Crafted from steel, the Flare Table Lamp ($3,475) channels 1940s French design.
Christopher FragapaneTHIS ARTICLE ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN VOLUME 16 OF FREDERIC MAGAZINE. CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE!
