Moment of Luxury…

DCH Fall Market 2009

Yesterday I attended the Decorative Center of Houston’s Fall Market and for most… finding a parking space was not exactly a moment of luxury. I opted for the free valet parking. Why make life more challenging than it already is? It was no wonder that the parking situation was difficult, because two of the countries most respected interior designers were attending.

Houston’s own Bill Stubbs was the keynote speaker for the event. Mr. Stubbs is a seasoned speaker and his boyish southern charm and charisma would make any conversation or topic interesting. In his presentation he revealed behind the scene stories about his lifestyle series that premiered in 2008 on PBS…“Moment of Luxury”. He is now in his second season.

Mr. Stubbs also talked about a two year overseas project that he worked on designing the interior of a 100 million dollar jet. In his warm and humorous manor he spoke about his perseverance in creating the design that would be worthy of his client, against the rigorous challenges of meeting aviation code and manufacturing.

If you ever get the chance to see him in person, don’t miss the opportunity. And be sure and check out his series on PBS.

William Stubbs

Kathryn M. Ireland was scheduled for a book signing at the Dorian Bahr showroom, but unfortunately had to cancel…because, apparently the Queen “mother” has requested that Kathryn come to see her. Well… I guess we know where her priorities lie!

It was a disappointment having Kathryn Ireland cancel... but, that was quickly forgotten upon attending the presentation of interior designer Barclay Butera. Barclay, who gave his presentation on “Decorating in a New Economy” in the Kravet showroom, is now part of the Kravet family of renowned designers. He is as charming as you would expect him to be. He talked about his roots in design…growing up in his mother’s interior design business and then setting his own path. His mother has a company in southern California that specializes in model home interiors. The first design firm that I worked with in California was a major competitor of hers.

Barclay, who is know for his blue and white interiors and his use of animal prints, had some wonderful photos in his slide presentation. Part of the emphasis of his presentation was on the use of decorative pillows as a way to offset lower budgets, with big impact. Barclay believes that there are no rules when it comes to designing. His own style in warm and eclectic, and he has a great eye for placement. I can see the influence that working in the model home industry had on his design choices, but he has gone so much further and is now designing 5 star hotels. It was a real treat to hear him speak.

Barclay Butera



Barclay Butera (Hardcover)