Grace Farris, a talented illustrator and dedicated physician has created a warm and inviting home in Austin, Texas with her husband, Arthur, and their two sons, George and Russ. Their house, chosen sight unseen, has become a canvas for their family’s love for art, board games, and shared experiences.
Grace’s journey from New York to Austin began with a desire to be closer to family. Her sister’s keen eye helped them find their 1950s home, which has become a treasure trove of memories and creativity. Let’s take a tour of their unique space and learn about the Farris family’s life.
Art and Family: The Heart of the Home
The Farris family’s home is a testament to their love for art and each other. The walls are adorned with paintings created by Grace’s aunt, Janet Eager Krueger, a professional artist from San Antonio. These western-themed artworks bring a touch of South Texas into their living space.
Grace’s sons have also contributed to the family’s artistic collection. George, inspired by artist Hugo Guinness, created a painting of purple tulips that now graces their home. This piece sparked a brief but memorable period of George’s artistic exploration, with Grace encouraging his creativity with promises of candy or extra iPad time.
The family’s love for board games is evident in their collection, which includes chess sets from the U.S. Chess Federation and games like Sushi Go and Don’t Break the Ice. However, it’s Monopoly that truly brings out their competitive spirits, with opportunities for strategic play and sibling rivalry.
The Farris Family’s Artistic Influences
Grace’s love for art extends beyond her family’s creations. She is an avid reader of graphic novels, with a particular fondness for works like La Perdida by Jessica Abel and the writings of Malaka Gharib. These influences have inspired Grace to explore her own creative outlets, including a graphic memoir about her experiences as a doctor.
Her friend, Austin Kleon, encouraged Grace to write a novel about her medical career. Initially hesitant, Grace found inspiration in the stories she wanted to tell, particularly about her challenging surgery rotation. Her graphic memoir, which opens with her birth story, offers a unique perspective on the vulnerabilities and strengths of medical professionals.
Creating a Cozy and Inviting Space
The Farris family’s home is a blend of thrifted finds and cherished heirlooms. Their armchairs were sourced from thrift stores, while their dining table was found at Uptown Modern. The living room features a Restoration Hardware hand-me-down sofa and a thrifted bookshelf, creating a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings.
The boys’ bedroom is a testament to their individual personalities. George, who enjoys traveling and trying new restaurants, shares a bunk bed with Russ, who prefers sports and hanging out with friends at home. Their bookshelves, sourced from The Container Store, are filled with their favorite reads and mementos.
The guest bedroom is designed with comfort in mind, featuring a Thuma bed and a ‘You Are Good’ print by Katie Kimmel and Lorien Stern. Grace ensures her guests feel pampered with luxurious soaps and lotions from Le Labo, making their stay feel more like a retreat than a typical visit.
Thrifting and Personal Touches
Grace’s mother is an avid thrifter, often finding hidden gems at stores like The Next-to-New Shop and Assistance League of Austin. One of her most prized finds is a quilt that now adorns Grace’s primary bedroom. This quilt, along with other thrifted items, adds a personal touch to their home.
The primary bedroom also features a painting by Grace’s aunt, Janet Eager Krueger, and a sofa similar to one from Robin Bruce. The room is a sanctuary for Grace, offering a place to relax and unwind after a long day at the hospital.
The Doctor’s Daily Life and Rewarding Career
Grace’s career as a hospitalist brings her into contact with patients of all ages, from 17 to 110. She works closely with residents and medical students, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the TV show The Pitt. Despite the challenges of the medical field, including burnout and administrative pressures, Grace finds her career deeply rewarding.
Her experiences have inspired her to write See One, Do One, Teach One, a book that shares her journey in the medical field. Grace hopes to inspire others to enter healthcare, despite the challenges they may face. Her passion for helping others is evident in every aspect of her life, from her career to her home.
Grace Farris’ home in Austin, Texas, is more than just a house; it’s a sanctuary filled with art, love, and cherished memories. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity, family, and the pursuit of a fulfilling career.
