Touting a new collab with Chaddock and myriad marvelous collections on the horizon, design darling Mark Sikes (markdsikes.com) is a breath of fresh air this spring.

“The creative part is not surprisingly the most fun. I love color and fabrics— that’s usually howthe design process starts,” says Sikes. PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK SIKES

What first sparked your love for design? Magazines and books. I have been an avid reader and collector since I was a child. I used to steal my mother’s design magazines, and we currently have issues that go back to the 1980s. I have a room devoted to them, and I regularly go back and reference them.

What are your must-haves for entertaining alfresco? Lots of iced tea. I am addicted.

Tell us a bit more about your collection with Chaddock. I love that it is so customizable. From the painted wood pieces that come in 12 Farrow & Ball colors to the upholstery pieces where you can slipcover, tuft the pillows, add a skirt, etc., you can really make every piece very unique and special.

Secret weapon? Good lighting and lots of flowers.

What’s next for you? We are really busy right now, so I am working. I am hoping to get back to Europe in late summer or early fall. Not exactly sure where yet, but I think we are all dying to go somewhere.