The Wry Home | Reasonable Redesign Blog

The first time I wandered into Lazy Fish, it was a tiny storefront tucked under the National Hotel. I somehow managed to kill 45 minutes in this 400 square foot jewel box of a store, browsing (and buying) multiple things for my home and for myself.

I got to know Carolyn Collins, the owner, quite well after that visit because I kept coming back for more! With a background in art from Providence College and ten years (1986-1996) working for Crate & Barrel as a visual designer, Carolyn has an eye second to none.

Carolyn moved to DC with Crate & Barrel to expand the company in the south, then returned to New England a year later to grow their furniture division. Carolyn chose Block Island to open Lazy Fish in 1996 because it was close to her home and, since she is practically a native (her first trip to the island was with her mom at 6 months old), it was a natural fit.

Tom McAleer painting

Starting a business on Block Island has allowed Carolyn to create an environment where she can easily be with her four children. The seasonal aspect of her store also gives her time to reflect and come back with new energy to Lazy Fish every year.

Block Island has definitely been an influence in her life and her career. Carolyn features a lot of local BI artists at Lazy Fish and loves her casual life by the sea.

North Light Fibers hand made yarn, Stuart Littlefield’s steel sculptures and Charlotte Herring’s lino-print cards are all local Block Island products.

Mike Bryce painting

Carolyn loves layering old with new when she is on buying trips. She has old vintage pieces mixed with new textiles, art, ceramics, furniture, home decor, jewelry and clothing at Lazy Fish. It is a feast for the eyes! Good luck getting out of here empty handed.

Claireware (above) is one of her favorite gifts. Created by a RISD graduate, Claire Weissberg creates an amazing line of beautiful, functional ceramics.

Love these Thomas Paul pillows!

I’ve got my eye on you…..

Carolyn loves involving her kids in the store too. They join her on treasure hunts and buying trips and add a wonderful dimension to the merchandise she sells.