Favorite Designer Darryl Carter
Designer Darryl Carter: I do not know where or when I first came across the work of Darryl Carter, perhaps in a magazine, but I do know it was at least 8+ years ago when I purchased his book, The New Traditional, published by Potter Style in 2008. His work remains fresh and relevant; it has a timelessness while simultaneously feeling modern and current.
I love his clean lined look of blending antiques with classically modern upholstery, alongside straight-edged, usually custom modern pieces of furniture. The color palette is generally muted with a punch of black, often in the form of a lampshade, or an accent color to grab your attention.
There are many layers and textures to Darryl Carter’s designs, on the floor or in the window treatments, incorporating both a muted base (such as a natural woven jute for the floor, cowhide, or linen roman shade for the window) paired with something exceptional, a hand-knotted rug or antique shutters.
These layers do not compete with each other but rather are complimentary. Portraits and landscapes are a feature of his work, but not always. As far as I can tell, there is not a formula, so it is a challenge to pinpoint what exactly you love about it, or why it works so well, but this makes it all the more compelling and unable to be replicated. But to replicate, would lack originality.
Designer Darryl Carter for Elle Decor:
Just take a look at his work, photos courtesy of Elle Decor magazine:
If you like his work, definitely check Darryl Carter out on Instagram and consider purchasing his books. He’s inspired many antique trips for me, and I’ve learned to look at pieces through a different lens after studying his work.
Designer Darryl Carter can also be found at his shop in Washington, DC and through his website.
