Beyond the Design Cray Bauxmont-Flynn

Join the conversation with Barclay Butera, the interior design maestro who traded law books for fabric swatches and never looked back. In a candid chat, Butera recounts his ascent from the foundational influence of his mother's design firm to establishing a design empire that marries elegance with comfort. He pulls back the curtain on the unique challenges of crafting model homes and the exhilaration of nurturing licensing partnerships. As we traverse Butera's creative landscape, he illuminates the influences that feed his design philosophy, from the allure of travel to the glamour of the silver screen. He even gives us a tantalizing preview of his latest collection, Villa Blanca – a testament to his ever-evolving aesthetic finesse.
Our episode traverses more than just Barclay's professional milestones; it taps into the rich tapestry of experiences that shape an iconic designer. Butera shares his anticipation for the upcoming Salone in Milan, a hallmark of design innovation, and reflects on the pivotal moments that allowed him to spread his wings beyond the family business. The discussion wades into the deep waters of client relationships and the balancing act of aesthetics, where symmetry meets soulful art and every flooring choice sets the stage. Barclay's narrative culminates in a transformative tale of a project that brought a Chinese couple's dreams to life, showcasing the emotive power of a design reveal.
The episode wraps with a behind-the-scenes look into the world of publishing exquisite design books. Barclay unfolds the mosaic of commitment and detail that goes into capturing the visual story of a space, and his work with publisher Gibbs Smith. His latest book, "The New Traditional," serves as a beacon for those who seek timeless elegance wrapped in modern sensibilities. Rounding out the discussion, Barclay imparts wisdom on his hands-on approach to product lines and offers pearls of wisdom for both budding designers and homeowners yearning to inject their spaces with personality. With Barclay's guidance, the transformative potential of just the right textile or wallpaper becomes palpable, marking the episode as a gateway to inspiration for listeners who appreciate the confluence of experience and passion in design.

Unlock the secrets of antique restoration with David Clair, our luminary guest from Clair & Company, whose journey from an artist with a penchant for the night to a sage of historical revival unveils the alchemy of resurrecting the past. Step inside his world where nocturnal musings blend with the meticulous craft of breathing life into treasures like a mystical fortune teller cabinet and poetic wax sculptures for the World Bank. This episode of Beyond the Design promises not just stories, but a masterclass in the delicate dance of preserving the soul of bygone eras.
With a flair for the timeless, we navigate the rich tapestry of furniture restoration, discussing the complexities of modifying antiques without compromising their essence. Picture a French chair, its cabrio legs elegantly altered to meet a modern desk, or envision adapting a centuries-old bed to cradle contemporary dreams. David's insight into client relations—where diplomacy meets the unexpected—is as captivating as the art of restoration itself. As we traverse through tales of veneer detective work and professional tact, you'll gather pearls of wisdom on nurturing the symbiotic relationship between restorer and relic.
Embark on a reflective journey with us as we ponder the evolution of antique trends and the importance of staying grounded in one's craft. The future of Clair & Company unfolds with educational endeavors and a book release on the horizon, all while David balances the business with the beat of family life. It's a conversation that stirs the soul, inviting you to explore the intersection of passion, legacy, and the timeless allure of antiques. For those with a reverence for the past and an eye towards preserving it, this episode is a treasure trove of enlightenment.

Unlock the secrets of design evolution with the visionary head of Design at Basile Studio, Ashley Evans, as she shares the enthralling transformation of their design practice. From humble beginnings in furniture making to the mastery of full-scale design, build, and fabrication, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Listen to the tales of pivoting from artistry to licensed general contracting, and be inspired by the whimsical yet pragmatic spaces crafted for renowned establishments like Born and Raised and Morning Glory. We also discover Basile Studio's foray into residential design, bringing their trademark aesthetic to the houses of San Diego.
Prepare to be invigorated by the creative fountain that keeps Basile Studio at the forefront of design innovation. You'll get an exclusive look into their distinctive method of distilling trends into timeless, raw-material masterpieces. We recount the challenges and victories of upholding a brand's identity while pushing the boundaries of budget and innovation, from the iconic Born and Raised to the industrial chic of Puesto projects. The studio's in-house fabrication expertise and their ambitious future endeavors, including owning and operating restaurants they've designed, add layers of excitement to this behind-the-scenes journey.
As we bid farewell to Ashley, we reflect on the resilience and growth of Basile Studio, especially in the face of adversity. We explore the studio's commitment to sustainability, not just as an environmental concept but as a sustainable business practice that prioritizes longevity and efficiency. We also celebrate their recent projects, such as the Basel Wilson development, which fuels their passion for design. Join us for this episode as we honor the studio's past triumphs and toast to the bright future that lies ahead for Ashley and her talented team.

Step into the vibrant world of maximalism with Daniel Barrett Mathis, a lawyer whose heart beats for the art of collection. Daniel's journey from a youthful admirer of design to an influential maximalist connoisseur unfolds as we traverse the spectrum of his personal evolution. His story is a testament to the power of collecting, not just as a hobby but as a poignant form of self-expression. We examine the thrill of curating unique finds, from mid-century white pottery to Ozark tourist gems, and the critical role Instagram plays in carving out one’s niche in the expansive design universe.
Our conversation then pivots to the emotive process of curation and the personal significance attached to each piece in a collector's trove. Daniel's transition from a cozy loft to a grander dwelling brought forth both challenges and triumphs, shedding light on the aesthetic intricacies of displaying a dynamic collection. His instinctual approach to acquiring and arranging items until they resonate perfectly chimes with the symphony of a collector's aspirations. Daniel’s reflections on the completeness of a collection and the evolving nature of collecting habits are a fascinating glimpse into the deep connection between our spaces and our identities.
As we wrap up, Daniel shares the adrenaline-fueled adventures that lie in the chase for vintage treasures. The stories of securing overlooked items that later bloom into sought-after collectibles capture the essence of a true collector's spirit. He imparts wisdom on transitioning a hobby into a viable business, maintaining a balance with professional life, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone with a burgeoning interest in the world of curating, this episode promises a rich palette of inspiration and insight into the art of collecting.

There's a moment when you meet someone whose career leap has not just been successful, but truly transformative. That's the feeling I got sitting across from Sara Story, the vibrant interior designer whose transition from marketing to design is as captivating as the spaces she creates. Our conversation takes you through Sara's early days in the Big Apple, her tutelage under Victoria Hagen, and how she weaves psychology into the tapestry of her designs. Sara's approach to interior design isn't just about aesthetics; it’s a deep understanding of the psychological comfort that spaces need to provide. Her passion for art and lighting is a beacon that guides her work, and she opens up about the personal touches that make each project memorable.
As someone who appreciates a good design challenge, Sara recounts the colorful journey of taking on projects that stretch her imagination. She shares the tale of her Austin, Texas, project that was a kaleidoscope of patterns and colors, pushing her creative boundaries. Sara also offers a glimpse into her literary side with her book "Art of Home," where her reflections and insights spring from the pages, offering an intimate look at her design philosophy. Peering into the future, Sara's ambitions unfold as she expresses a desire to design boutique hotels and restaurants, spaces where community and comfort converge.
Wrapping up the episode, we brush on the nuances of lighting and how it can redefine a room's ambiance, a testament to Sara's meticulous attention to every detail. She speaks on the adaptability required in her field, as she tailors her designs to resonate with regional tastes from Texas to New York. Sara also delves into the modern dynamics of client engagement, propelled by technology and social media, and shares her strategies for managing the inflated expectations they sometimes bring. She caps off our discussion with invaluable advice for aspiring designers about the importance of mentorship and business savvy in crafting a successful career in interior design. To continue being inspired by Sara's work, follow her on Instagram at Sarastorydesign or take a moment to browse her portfolio on her website.

Master architect Dan D'Agostino from Plant Architecture steps into the spotlight on Beyond the Design to share his fascinating transition from a modest home-based venture to a bustling team of 25, creating bespoke living spaces just a stone's throw from Manhattan. This episode is rich with stories of Dan's approach to understanding the emotional roots behind client aspirations, the influential wave of social media on his business trajectory, and the delicate dance of forming relationships with clients that resemble a courtship of creativity and communication.
As we pull back the layers of Dan's architectural philosophy, we're swept into a world where the past meets the present, traditional forms are fused with modern flair, and expansive windows illuminate our living experiences. You'll hear about Dan's personal design adventures, including the humbling task of being his own client and the synergistic power of collaborating with homeowners. We also dive into the sensory details of how architectural greats sculpt with light, and how Dan's own work echoes these timeless practices, setting the stage for a deeply human-centered approach to architecture.
Venturing into the technological frontier, Dan unveils how AI and innovative 'Walk the Plan' experiences are reshaping client interactions, propelling design precision into new realms. We also get a glimpse into Dan's personal life—where architecture intersects with his love for music and guitar collecting, fuelling his creativity beyond blueprints and facades. As we wrap up, Dan extends an invitation to follow his quest for crafting a coastal haven, encouraging listeners to engage in a conversation about making indelible marks through design.