ROOTED IN TRADITION

Growing up in a David Adler landmark in Lake Forest, it’s not surprising the Miranda Luce (now Maxfield) has a passion for antiques and fine interiors. In addition to meeting people and visiting beautiful homes all over Chicago and the North Shore, one of the things she loves about her role as a Senior Manager at Hindman Auctions & Appraisals is the way her job inspires her own decorating style. “Pairing historic homes with a mix of modern and traditional décor really attracts me,” says Miranda, who married Clay Maxfield at First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest in 2019 (with the reception held on the grounds of her parents’ historic property, of course). “Bring on the lacquered ceilings, Scalamandre wallpaper, and Eames chairs paired with grandma’s antiques!” In addition to working with attorneys, bankers, and advisors to value large estates, Miranda is also an auctioneer for live sales, charity auctions, and galas. “I live and breathe the Hindman brand and feel so lucky to have a career where my business and personal life are so intertwined,” she adds. “The services that Hindman provides are ones that everyone needs at one point in life, so I am always networking.” The job frequently brings her back to her hometown, where her parents and many of her friends still live. “Lake Forest was a wonderful place to grow up, so much so that my husband and I plan to move back when we have children!” adds Miranda, explaining that they currently live in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood with their dog, Parker. “Tradition is important to me and the values that were instilled in me by my parents, my teachers, and so many important adults in my life—from family friends to youth pastors at my church to camp counselors at Winter Club—guide me today in my work, volunteerism, and friendships.”

What is your favorite thing about Lake Forest? The history. It is a gorgeous town with stunning architecture and a unique visual character which I hope we can preserve well past my lifetime. What motivates you, both professionally and personally? Making my family proud. Beach, mountain, or city for vacation? Beach. My favorite way to unplug and reset during vacation is to relax in the sun with a good book—preferably historical fiction! Favorite piece of furniture or art in your personal collection? My favorite piece in my collection is an old Chinoiserie cabinet that I purchased from a Hindman Collections sale early in my career. My living room is inspired by Tory Burch’s New York City apartment … this was a perfect, versatile addition. Favorite place in the world, so far? We honeymooned in Bora Bora. Lake Como is a close second! I call it “my heaven on earth.” Top 3 favorite restaurants? It is so hard to choose! Clay and I are big foodies and love trying new restaurants. The ones that stand out to me are Dal Bolognese in Rome, Temporis in West Town, and Ricardo Trattoria in Lincoln Park. Favorite color? Navy … always has been! Favorite music to listen to while driving? Hamilton! I know every word to every song. In the middle of COVID, my husband and I drove my mother-in-law back to Chicago from Marco Island. I serenaded them during the entire 17-hour drive. What time of day are you most productive? I would say midday. I certainly wouldn’t call myself a morning person and as I get older, I am finding that I like to go to bed at a reasonable hour. Best advice you’ve given or received? It doesn’t matter what you major in. Study what you enjoy! You will learn everything else on the job. Pets? Parker! Three-year-old Shih Tzu mix whom I adore. Which famous person, living or dead, would you like to collaborate with? Elizabeth Taylor is one of my favorites. Her iconic jewelry collection was sold by Christie’s in 2011. I would have loved to be involved in that auction. Next item to check off your bucket list? I plan to visit Morocco for my 30th birthday next year. My paternal grandmother is French Moroccan, from a port town near Tangier, so I look forward to experiencing the country of my roots.