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Design Detour: Benjamin Johnston
Benjamin Johnston describes his interiors as classic, curated and decidedly edgy — much like the city he calls home. Houston’s diversity brings a contemporary global influence to the local design scene, and Johnston points to a lack of zoning restrictions as one reason you’re likely to encounter a range of architectural styles on every block. In any case, for this designer, there’s magic in the mix — think contemporary art, soulful antiques, velvet and mohair upholstery and luxe rugs underfoot. “Houstonians value design that tells a story,”Johnston says. “We often remind our clients that there’s no reason you can’t mix a contemporary painting with a vintage Kagan sofa and statement lighting. It’s all about telling your unique story in the most meaningful way.”
Photography Courtesy of Benjamin Johnston Design
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"The bar at La Colombe d’Or is the perfect place for a night cap after a gala or evening at the theater. This piece of Houston history was given a facelift and delivers high style and fabulous cocktails. Plus, you never know who you might see in one of the bar’s cozy corners. I'd love to have dinner there with Bill Stubbs and Sarah Eilers, two designers I admire greatly, both for their long and illustrious careers and for their positive influence on the designers who have worked and trained alongside them.”
STOP IN
"Moxie Interiors is one of the most inspirational places to shop for antiques and quirky vintage finds, not only in Houston, but across the world. It’s a store unlike any other that every design aficionado must experience! Madison Lily is my favorite when I’m sourcing luxury contemporary rugs for my clients. With hundreds of in-stock rugs to peruse and a robust custom rug design program, their showroom is brimming with color, texture and possibility."
BRIGHT IDEA
“I love using these in studies and libraries where the goal is illuminating bookshelves, art and accessories. I often install a collection of six or eight art lights in a single room, and the result is magical! With an approachable price point and multiple finishes, the David Art Light by Thomas O'Brien is a true workhouse for my team, and we find ourselves including it in designs again and again."
HOT TIP
"Aaron Parazette is one of my favorite local artists. With op art and word art paintings that are memorable, colorful and full of personality, Aaron’s pieces have the power to take an interior from good to great."
TRY THIS
“With a fantastical dragon pattern, Bixi Velvet from Schumacher is the epitome of whimsy. I’m a firm believer that a touch of chinoiserie adds oomph to any space and the muted colorways Schumacher offers are perfect for more formal rooms while the bold hues really make a room sing.This fabric beautifully expresses the youthful, energetic vibe Houston is so well-known for!"
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"The Liaison Statement Sconce by Kelly Wearstler is a go-to for me. Given the size and scale of homes that we work on in Houston, our team is constantly searching for oversized pieces like this that are both beautiful and functional."
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"The Gracie Grande Captured Globe Pendant by Chapman & Myers is one of my new favorites. We installed these over a kitchen island at a showcase home we designed earlier this year, and people went crazy for them. It’s a big, bold look that tastefully bridges the gap between traditional and transitional styles."
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"Sean Lavin’s Aspen Outdoor Wall Sconce is minimalism at its finest and is another staple in our contemporary designs. While they serve as beautiful accents that provide ample illumination in the evening, they also look stunning during the day which makes them an exceptional outdoor fixture."