Julia Johnson
Some people collect decor. Julia Johnson collects the feeling, whether it’s the tension of an odd colour pairing, spaces and style that feel comforting yet intentional, or the satisfaction of adding something unexpected.
Julia Johnson is the Founder and Creative Director of Centerpiece, a Montreal-based vintage furniture and design shop specializing in artful, collectible pieces. Before launching Centerpiece in 2020, she studied graphic design and spent over a decade in fashion, developing the discerning eye for colour, shape and materiality that now defines her personal style and her sourcing. A recognized tastemaker in Canada's creative scene, she has collaborated with Elle Canada, Elle Québec, Still Here NYC and Saie, and Centerpiece has been featured in Architectural Digest's Clever.
For our June capsule, Urban Instincts, we spoke with Julia about Montreal’s creative ease, getting dressed with a little pizzazz, and the kind of design that feels like it was always meant to be there.
Your work moves between interiors, colour and objects. How does this translate to your personal style?
My styling always starts from a foundation that's easy to live in: a good shirt, a comfortable pair of trousers or jeans. From there, whether I'm styling for Centerpiece or just getting dressed, I always add one thing that's slightly unexpected, a mix of styles, an off colour combination, or a clever accessory. A little pizzazz.
You have such a clear eye for spaces that feel collected rather than decorated. Which places in Montreal have that same quality for you?
The places I go back to most, like Au Coin, Leméac and Le Violon, all share something. Whether they're brand new or an institution that's been around for decades, the rooms feel like they were always meant to be there: timeless and well put together, but still artful, and comforting without ever feeling forced. That, to me, is what good design is about, and it doesn't hurt that the crowd is usually well dressed and the conversation easy.
How has living in Montreal shaped your taste and the way you move through the world?
Montreal is a creative, inspiring city, full of culture and talent. My friends all work in different fields but we're drawn to similar things and genuinely appreciate each other's work, which is uplifting. There's also an unpretentiousness here, so you develop your taste around what you actually like rather than chasing whatever's trendy.
Which Urban Instincts style feels most like you, and how would you wear it through a Montreal day?
I love the Laid Back Loafer in Hazelnut Suede. The contrast of the suede upper and rubber sole bring a more relaxed feel to a classic shape, allowing you to wear it more casually.
I'd wear it with a little sport short and a crisp dress or plaid shirt, or dressed down with a baggier jean and a simple tank or tee. Easy but put together either way.
