ABOUT THE VLR SITE
What does “Luxury” mean to you? It’s a word that has been used (and misused) a lot. You see it associated with things that are very exclusive (and many times overpriced!)
My favorite definition of the word Luxury is: “A condition of abundance or great ease and comfort” (the first meaning in the Dictionary). I would also add the word “Quality” to the equation.I always think of quality (and value) as an important part of the luxury experience.
That sense of luxury came to me while living in France and spending time at friends’ places in the countryside. Shack or chateau, it always felt so luxurious to be having great fun with friends in a relaxed, bucolic setting. I remember thinking “Some day I will have my own simple rural retreat” (Of course in my mind I was picturing an elegant manor house with extensive grounds!)
That picture changed a bit when I found an almost abandoned cottage in the Hudson River Valley. Now I’m hooked on this lovely rural spot and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else (though I have incorporated a few of those “manor house” ideas into the renovation).
Because of my love of practical and quality-driven luxury, I’ve called this site The Viable Luxury Ruralist – theVLR.com. (Which are also my initials – Vincent La Rouche)
I now live in my cottage with Mr Poopers my cat and work at home as a Creative Consultant, helping people realize different creative projects. My passion is this site where I report on all things luxury in the country (and some country luxury in the city as well). I hope that you enjoy and find the content useful.
– VLR
VLR BIO
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
For over 17 years I was the Creative Director of an amazing company called LAFCO New York. I had the fantastic experience of working with the best people in the business and being able to create and bring forth all kinds of projects, from home fragrance and body care, to luxury retail stores (I was even nominated by The Fashion Council for best retail environment).
PARIS COUTURE
In my youth, after studying at FIDM, (I won a national contest and was given a full scholarship) I moved to Paris and stayed almost 20 years. I was able to work with some of the greats of the Haute Couture before starting my own couture business. It was a wonderful time that taught me about true luxury; the kind that comes with craftsmanship and quality.
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