BUTERA ON DESIGN: THERE ARE NO RULES

Barclay Butera will be on the InspireDesign panel at Hospitality at Market.

As an interior designer, Barclay Butera has a couple of philosophies and basic principles he follows when designing all projects. The first rule is: There are no rules. He’s known for mixing and matching different textiles, patterns, colors and textures so that everything has a rich layered look.

“Hospitality projects can be a bit challenging,” said Butera. “Most the time, we like to present our perfect world to create a real statement project. And, often I have to nudge. Of course, we always have to be mindful of budget with hospitality, so were careful to make the presentations as realistic as possible so they come to fruition.”

Ask him and he’ll tell you, he always goes for the “wow” factor. This is a man that likes to offer up an artistic creation that will leave people talking about it.

“I think it’s really important to have spectacular lighting, to use exquisite mirrors and fresh artwork,” said Butera. “These are all like jewelry for a room. If it’s requested, I use neutrals or a subtle palette and going all out with these elements really packs a punch. I want people to walk into the lobby of the hotel and say, ‘oh my gosh, who designed this magnificent place?’”

The third annual Hospitality at Market program during Fall Market will be held Oct. 13-17. InspireDesign is the exclusive media partner.

After many years of attending High Point Market, Butera is a veteran. He’s held launch events and collaborated with his license partners there. So, what keeps him coming back? “I think High Point Market has truly become a must-attend experience for anyone in the design community,” he said.

It’s also a way for him to keep is creative juices flowing. “I’m constantly on the move and on the lookout for projects, clients and that certainly includes hospitality. I honestly can’t remember when I first heard about Hospitality at Market; it’s always been a part of my DNA. I’m looking forward to concentrated time focusing on this forum.”

Butera also enjoys the camaraderie of fellow designers, the manufacturers and the press—all focused on this unique and creative industry. “I have so many long-time friends in this business. It’s twice a year we can actually get together and share our stories and experiences. I love being on panels, but I also love the launch events in the showrooms. We have had a few incredible parties the last couple of years. I’m very blessed to work with some of the best manufacturers in the business.”

At this year’s Hospitality at Market, Butera is eager to share and receive ideas and information with his peers.

“I’m really looking forward to the InspireDesign panel,” he said. “It’s always fun to share ideas, and I always love to listen to the other designers. There’s always something to learn. For my part, I think it’s fun to talk about the different experiences with hospitality. I’ve done entire resorts, specialty rooms, ballrooms and suites, and landscape and outdoor. Each experience is different, and it’s always fun to share tips and tricks with my comrades in the design community.”

For the uninitiated, Barclay shares a couple of tips to make the most of this extraordinary show-within-a-show for the hospitality industry.

One to grow on: “There’s no question anyone in the design business can learn something very valuable at High Point,” he said. “It’s the one place where we all gather together, everyone sharing their own personal expertise. I think every designer walks away learning more about our business, how to design smartly and efficiently—with their own personal style.”

Comfort is king: “By all means, wear comfortable shoes. You can log 10 miles a day on concrete floors, so your best comfortable shoes are a must.”

Enjoy yourself: “Don’t take yourself too seriously. Market is meant to be informative, but it should also be fun. Don’t stay up too late at the parties!”

Join us: “Go with a plan. I look forward to seeing you there!”

—Corris Little


…and more!

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