Effortlessly cool, not trendy; laid-back, yet elevated; thoughtful, not forced. That’s the vibe you get when walking into one of Basic Projects’ restaurants, including Basic Kitchen, Post House Inn, and Sullivan’s Fish Camp. And the founding partner and creative director extends that beyond basic aesthetic to her wardrobe and her home. This year, Towill and her husband, Ben, are cooking up another must-see boutique hotel and restaurant in Mount Pleasant. Here, the designer shares her romantic signature accessory and go-to date-night outfit
Q What’s your favorite date night, and what would you wear?
A Chez Nous; I’d wear a silk skirt and ribbed, thin cashmere T-shirt—both purchased at Hampden Clothing, my friend Stacy’s shop on King Street.
Q Tell us about the most romantic gift you’ve received.
A From Ben for Christmas: tickets to Patagonia to trek Torres del Paine. We had only been dating for a year! It was one of the most special trips I’ve ever been on. I knew he was the one after that, that’s for sure.
Q What do you have in your real or virtual shopping cart that you hope to purchase soon?
A I have an entire tablescape picked out from PORTA—plates (above), place mats, glasses, napkins, cutlery—just haven’t pulled the trigger! My friend Francesca started this company not even a year ago. It’s fabulous and trés chic.
Q Do you have a signature accessory?
A Right now, it’s my Dreamboats pendant from my friends and jewelry designers at Lizzie Fortunato Jewels. My husband is one of the two Dreamboats rowing across the Atlantic Ocean for The Green Heart Project, a local organization building vegetable gardens and outdoor classrooms in area schools. All proceeds from this pendant go straight to their campaign.
Q What’s the most treasured item in your wardrobe?
A My long, thin Kantha floral robe a friend brought back for me from India. I wear it on the weekends, sometimes all day. I’ve even worn it with jeans and a white tee. It’s true relaxation when I’m in it. This is something similar from a UK brand I love, TOAST (left).
Q Who are some of your favorite local designers, whether for interiors or fashion?
A I love The Urban Electric Co. for their gorgeous lights and incredible company culture; they have an impressive factory in North Charleston. And E.M. Reitz, of course!
