Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar - CEO, Barclay Butera Interiors
What sparked your interest in design? I was fortunate to grow up in a very stylish household since my mom is in the interior design business. After a brief stint in law school, I knew I had a more creative calling. I opened my first design firm 25 years ago and have been loving it ever since.
How would you describe your aesthetic? I strive to design interiors that are glamorous but comfortable at the same time. I love plenty of textures, colors and patterns layered—it’s my signature look. Well, that and pops of animal print!
What design trend you are loving at the moment? I am just not a trend guy. I love timeless, classic interiors; many of my first projects I did 25 years ago look current today.
What design trend are you so over? I never did go for the overdone, ornate, cluttered look. Too much “whimsy” makes me cringe.
How do you weave your sense of style into everything you do? My style is definitely all-American with a West Coast twist. From my wardrobe to my interiors to the parties I design, I favor classic elegance, and of course plenty of blue and white in the mix.
Wallpaper or paint? Oh, no question. Wallpaper, hands down.
Antique or reproduction? Originals, especially if I find something amazing at the Paris antique markets.
What is the best bang for the buck when it comes to making a big impact? Fabulous art! I happen to be in love with abstracts these days. Most often it’s the first thing people see when they enter a room, so go with the best and most sophisticated art you can afford.
