A full-time photographer by day, Charlie Schuck uses his so-called downtime for his favorite hobby: supporting local designers by curating his store Object (Belltown, 2316 Second Ave., by appointment only; hereisobject.com), and the new Frye Art Museum Store (First Hill, 704 Terry Ave.; 206.622.9250; fryemuseum.org/store).

“The original idea behind Object was to create beautiful experimental experiences that blurred the line between art and retail,” Schuck says. “Even if you don’t like certain items, people tend to appreciate fine and thoughtful spaces.”

Both spaces certainly reflect Schuck’s modern, spare design sensibility. Object is supplied with such progressive designs as Iacoli & McAllister’s geometric Spica light ($695–$1,350), Chadhaus’ warm wood furnishings ($400–$5,200) and Piano Nobile’s vivid textiles ($50). While pulling from influences from the late 19th century for the Frye store, Schuck mixes contemporary Northwest works, such as handcrafted porcelain napkins ($50) from Seattle-based Czech artist Klara Glosova, with unique objects from abroad, such as crystal dominoes made in Italy ($111.25). One of Schuck’s favorite items to date is a stunning, 6-foot-tall India blue taxidermic peacock ($3,400). “There is an added emphasis on finding antiques and older one-of-a-kind items,” he says, “I want the Frye store to feel more like a Wonder Cabinet.”

By focusing on designers and curiosities that he loves, Schuck bridges the gap between art, design and commerce and has created two spaces that we find to be, well, just wonderful.