Salt + Light Home opens design studio, furniture shop in Tamuning
Salt + Light Home, a new design studio and furniture shop, has opened in Tamuning, offering clients the chance to create the home of their dreams while keeping affordability in mind.
The studio celebrated its grand opening Thursday morning, welcoming customers with drinks and charcuterie spreads.
Upon entering the double glass doors, customers are greeted by a carefully curated space that blends modern and organic elements.
The layout features natural materials like wood, marble, and metal, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that demonstrates how the store's design approach can transform any home.
"We want to create a beautiful space for you and really curate pieces that complement your home, rather than just selling you a sectional or a dining table," said Lisa Talavera, principal designer and CEO of Salt + Lite Home. "But we also offer items you can purchase."
Talavera described the store's aesthetic as "modern organic," with timeless pieces designed to be passed down through generations.
Founded in just seven months, the studio focuses on creating cohesive, curated spaces, rather than simply selling individual furniture pieces.
Talavera said they offer design packages that include both heritage and modern items, with a particular emphasis on affordability through their "Seventh" line.
"That starting price point for pieces is really geared toward clients just starting out—whether they're new homeowners or people with small spaces, like condos or apartments. They want high design, but at an affordable price," Talavera said. "Our pieces are all high design, but we've been able to source them at an affordable rate. So, while they're quality pieces, they're still very affordable."
In addition to design services, the studio also includes a real estate division that stages homes, along with complimentary assembly, delivery, and placement of furniture.
The name Salt + Light is inspired by biblical values, and the studio's mission centers on offering high-design, affordable solutions in a welcoming environment.
"It comes from Matthew 5:13-16, where the Bible says to be the salt of the Earth and the light of the world. That's where the 'Salt' and 'Light' come from," Talavera said.
Shine Walker, executive creative director and principal broker of Salt + Light Home and Realty, shared her excitement about launching the business and credited the role of their 20-member team in making it possible.
She also emphasized the role of divine providence in bringing the vision to life.
"Salt + Light reflects our values of relational service and community," Walker said. "We're able to offer high-design, cost-effective furniture because we cut out the middleman and work directly with manufacturers. Our pieces are versatile and durable, suitable for any stage of life. What was originally a five-year vision came to life in just seven months, thanks to a serendipitous partnership with Lisa."
Walker also described how her partnership with Talavera helped accelerate the project.
"She told me she was no longer working for another store, and we met up for lunch. She was the missing puzzle piece with her expertise and my design background," Walker said. "We share the same values, so it made the journey much easier. I look forward to coming in every day—it doesn't even feel like work. The Lord just provided every step of the way, in His own timing."
Both Talavera and Walker emphasized that what truly sets their store apart is not just the products, but the experience they offer.
"We want our customers to have a great experience—not just browse, but feel welcomed and inspired along the way," Walker said.
