MY FAVORITE ROOMS: 2022 KIPS BAY DECORATOR SHOW HOUSE DALLAS

Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse Dallas

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

This September 22nd, the third annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas opened, and revealed the hard work and creative energy the 24 selected interior designers put forth. The talent-filled group worked tirelessly to transformed the interior and grounds of a 12,470-square-foot home in Old Preston Hollow’s Sunnybrook Estates neighborhood. But this year, things were different. The house, which usually stays open for a month, was only able to welcome visitors for a 4 day span. Because of this abbreviated run, I hope you will support this incredible event, and the charities involved. Proceeds benefit the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club as well as two local charities, Dwell with Dignity and The Crystal Charity Ball.

Some common design themes emerged in the house, with bespoke luxury artisanship, vibrant color, namely mustard (yes, its still trending) and shades of purple, large-scale lanterns, floral prints, and detailed ceilings leading the pack. Ahead, take a look at some of the captivating spaces that caught my eye.

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

My good friend Shelley Johnstone created a calming respite in her “Garden View Study & Bathroom.” The sitting room, swathed in a brown and white ticking stripe, was tailored and polished, with a fresh, crisp feel. She incorporated plaster elements, French antiques and elegant decorative touches. Pretty details include her use of tape trim and fringe, along with pale pink blooms and greenery, and it was feminine without being saccharine.

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Atlanta designer Patricia McLean Interiors’ “Travelers Retreat” once again proves that blue and white is always right. Inspired by far-flung travels, the elegant hideaway incorporates a Soane Britain blue and cream paisley stripe, worldly elements, antiques, and charming touches, like the scalloped bedskirt that playfully incorporates the paisley pattern. Because pretty is here to stay.

Photo: Jay Simon of Ten Ten Collective

Alessandra Branca's “Foglia” living room is a verdant oasis, swathed in green and cream, and mixes vintage and clean-lined pieces. A leaf and vine patterned wallpaper carries the eye upwards and makes the double-height ceilings and expansive windows feel more intimate.

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Avrea & Company’s “Pretty in Plaid” pulled blue, green and purple into her bedroom scheme with a dramatic, sheltering canopy bed serving as the focal point. Collected and classic, the Dallas designer layers pattern in a variety of ways— plaid walls provide a graphic counterpoint to the abundant floral print.

Kips Bay Dallas Sitting Area

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Blaire Murfree of Nashville’s Blaire Designs was inspired by Portugal when designing “Vista Do Jardim De Um Explorador.” Pairing varied materials and modern with more traditional pieces, her seating area in mustard and purple with touches of blue is sophisticated and worldly.

Kips Bay Dallas Bathroom

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Chad Graci of Graci Interiors’ created “Bon Vivant Hideaway” comprised of a hallway and bath, unified by pattern, cranberry colored trim and luxe touches. I worked with him at David Easton and was thrilled to see his name because I knew he would bring the glamour, and he delivered it in spades.

Kips Bay Dallas Reading Room

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

M+M Interior Design’s “Reading Room” is a vast space unified by jewel tone paisley, florals and ikats, in what is ultimately a very cozy spot with assorted seating areas. The duo of Leslie Martin and Kim Meardon created special vignettes for social moments; a canopied nook takes its cue from a Moroccan tent, and towards the back of the space, a paisley-covered sectional beckons. A veritable cabinet of curiosities, collected pieces include vintage Italian faux marble painted plinths (in a wonderful nod to 80’s decorating), 18th century pieces and assorted objets. And lets not forget about the handsome iron lantern with pebbled glass that casts a warm glow.

Kips Bay Dallas Laundry Room

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Dallas-based designer Noel Pittman’s Laundry Room proves that spaces can be chic and functional at the same time. Pairing a charming red and white gingham with timeless cabinetry that resembles a classic butler’s pantry, the space doubles as an office with a spot to escape the everyday.

Kips Bay Dallas Americana

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Anthony Baratta’s Study works with a melange of styles including Americana, Victorian, and English touches with brown furniture and classic pieces throughout. Baratta’s signature use of bold pattern and color did not disappoint.

Kips Bay Dallas Living Room

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Design duo Lance Scott and Cecily Waud of the newly launched LC Studio designed “Midnight Lounge.” A family room with modern elements and a heady dose of glamour, they pair matte and high gloss finishes, and the 15-foot ceilings are tamed by the organic furniture arrangements and undulating forms dotted throughout.

Kips Bay Bedroom

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

LA-based designer Natasha Baradaran designed "The Empowered Woman" bedroom is a retreat in soothing pale colors. She pairs contemporary pieces, like this soaring headboard with modern cut-outs and a somewhat traditional floral print wallpaper.

Kips Bay Dallas Outdoor Area

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Isabel Ladd Interiors’ “La Terraza Tropical” pairs vibrant colors with natural materials. The Kentucky designer with Brazilian roots created a series of outdoor rooms in a kaleidoscope of joyful patterns with plenty of vivid blooms in a lush garden.

Kips Bay Dallas Seating Area Outside

Credit: Nathan Schroder Photography

Byron Risdon’s designed his outdoor space, “Terrasse 107” with entertaining in mind. The Washington, DC-based designer created an outdoor living room in cream hues with fully-upholstered pieces surrounded by unique seating areas.