The Washington D.C. interior designer Darryl Carter has pioneered a new American aesthetic that seamlessly mixes modern elements with traditional design. Carter's decor is defined by restrained, edited choices, with an emphasis on subtle upholstery and elegant antiques. The result: spaces that are simultaneously stylish and livable, all of which have a quality that is sure to stand the test of time.
In terms of color, Carter sticks to a mostly monochromatic palette that allows the antiques and unique objects he finds to take center stage. Upholstery is mostly washed linens and is casually comfortable. Pops of black accents are also one of Carter's trademarks.
As Carter said in his book, The New Traditional: "Design with bold strokes using a few well-chosen pieces of furniture and art. If every inch of a room is covered with wallpaper, draperies, tassels, and other furnishings, single objects lose their interest and importance. Spare environments are challenging as they are less visually forgiving and lack superfluous distractions. You must be particular and confident in your choices."
To hear more of his design convictions, visit his website. And be sure to check out his new book, The Collected Home, a combination of inspiring photography and practical advice.
SHOWN ABOVE:
1. Elle Decor
2. CoCoCozy
3. Elle Decor
4. The City Sage
5. Elle Decor.
MORE DARRYL CARTER ON APARTMENT THERAPY:
• Darryl Carter's Virginia Home
• Beige, Black & White Done Right by Darryl Carter
• Darryl Carter's Serene Kalorama Townhouse
(Images: as linked above)
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Really nice work
What a great aesthetic! I find it difficult to limit myself to a neutral palette, but these images inspire me to try harder! The spaces look serene, but are still intriguing.
Personally I dont' care for black and white rooms. I find they lack warmth. With the exception of the zebra throw, the last one would be the one I would lean towards if I had to pick.
I've always appreciated his design approach. Thomas O'Brien to me is similar in spirit, but actualizes his designs with more warmth and color even though he also often works from a muted color mix. Both create rooms that seem to really honor the architecture of the space and that are calming in nature.
I appreciate the work of Darryl Carter, but I don't think he pioneered this look... His work has always reminded me of that of Rose Tarlow. And John Saladino has been combining modern elements with traditional design to create stunning interiors since the late '70s/early '80s.
He's created his own signature, but hasn't pioneered a whole new aesthetic...
I really like his style; comes really close to mine. with regard to the comment on the lack of warmth of black and white rooms the best way to balance the two colors out is to use some wood furnishings and accents...makes a huge difference and sometimes brings more warmth than those that use lots of colors.
I've lived in many different cities in my life and the District of Columbia was the hottest, April to October. Oppressively humid, too. One of the best compliments I can give Darryl Carter's rooms: they look cool. Literally. No wonder his work is beloved in our nation's capital. Anyone who insists their rooms must look "warm" is not living in 95 degree heat with 100% humidity much of the year.