Any project of DC's hometown design hero, Darryl Carter, is a delight to the senses, but his private residences are a special treat, especially for those craving a bit of calm during our vibrant fall color contest. Last year we peeked into his Virgina farmhouse, and now, thanks once again to Elle Decor, it's time to get a glimpse of his primary home in DC's glamorous Embassy Row...
A home full of neutrals doesn't always go over well with this crowd, but we hope that you will appreciate Mr. Carter's particular mastery of the calm yet grounded palette. As in his Virginia weekend home, Mr. Carter's city dwelling boasts a sophisticated tension between restraint and high style, rustic simplicity and refined luxury. The interior is swathed in his trademark neutrals with the occasional bold dark masculine pieces, like the antique bordello doors used in lieu of a traditional headboard in the master bedroom, that anchor the rooms.
I've always admired Mr. Carter's deft mixing of wood tones, but in this home his wood sense seems especially apparent. He uses natural patinas and grain patterns in the same way that most designers rely on punchy colors and show-stopping prints. His extensive use of black and white throughout his home allows the grains and finishes on his wooden furniture to take center stage rather than simply being a backdrop for bolder color. The result is a pure and soothing, understated glamor.
Check out Elle Decor's full article here.
(Images: Simon Upton for Elle Decor)
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Really like the antique secretary in the Bath. He often does double tubs in his baths and I love it more everytime I see it.
view Volvoguy's profile
I like his style but sometimes I feel like he is trying to hard when adding that "wow" touch.
view chicity1126's profile
As a washingtonian and a professional designer, I think 'hero' is a bit of an exaggeration.
view kodak's profile
I am a big fan of white homes with a mix of natural textures -- have a big thing for Belgian and Danish design -- and so I like his home.
Although it is lovely, some of it is a little too Over The Top and pretentious though -- like the 2 side-by-side bathtubs with the carved stones roundels at the end. And I sure hope he actually plays the piano, because otherwise it is akin to "books by the yards".
view mschatelaine's profile
I know I am "craving some clam" I think you meant calm (first paragraph). Thank you so much for making me laugh, even if you didn't mean to.
view mittens1's profile
mittens1- haha thanks for pointing it out, glad it made you laugh.
view LeahDC's profile
What is that 3D artwork behind the piano? Looks really cool! Wonder if it's DIYable.
view elai1231's profile
elai1231,
The 3D artwork appears to be a type of room acoustic treatment product called "skyline." See the below link for example. Essentially, it helps reduce the slap echo effect in a room and provides a more clear sound reproduction.
http://www.rpginc.com/products/skyline/index.htm
view justaute's profile
I love his sense of style and the calm elegance that he brings to spaces.
view bepsf's profile
The 3-D work behind the piano is a custom art work, a ceramic disc composition made for this particular space and Darryl's palette. It's composed of English porcelain and hand dug Maryland stoneware clay, fashioned into various sized discs, mounted on a steel grid. It's sort of a pixelated painting of earth...
http://www.margaretboozer.com/commission5.html
view boozer's profile
I swoon every time I see one of DC's interiors. If I ever win the lottery, I'm hiring him asap.
view PhillyLass's profile