When thinking of Houston, many things come to mind: oil, NASA, music and of course the humidity. However, in the last 10 years, Houston has undergone exceptional growth that has transformed the city into an oasis of museums, public art and a thriving international business scene. The city is alive with exciting new architecture and fabulous restaurants. Renowned chefs are serving up international fare right along with the traditional barbeque condo towers are rising next to corporate spires. This growth has had a positive impact on Houston design – increasing the number of hotels, homes, restaurants and apartments needed to house and fuel the growing population of movers and shakers! .
Marjorie Partin, Showroom Manager at David Sutherland in Houston
We decided to chat with Marjorie Partin from The David Sutherland Showroom to get her perspective on Houston and the flourishing design scene there.
What is your background in design and what brought you to your current position at David Sutherland Inc.?
Marjorie – At David Sutherland Inc. our goal is to bring the latest and best designs in furniture, textiles and accessories to the design community. We strive to stay one step ahead and to bring inspiration to our clients. We also want to provide the ultimate customer service experience. I am a licensed interior designer and have been in the industry since 1986. Interior Design has always been a passion of mine and I feel lucky every day that I get to “work” in such a beautiful place
Would you say Houston has a specific style? How would you describe it?
Marjorie Marjorie – Not anymore! We used to be considered a more traditional town, but that is definitely not the case anymore. We have a very diverse population that continues to change and Houston is definitely now considered an eclectic city.
What is special/ different about the design community in Houston? How has it grown or changed in recent years?
Marjorie – There are designers and decorators from all over the world in Houston. The Houston economy is booming and we have a diverse product offering that attracts a broad cross-section of designers. The internet has definitely changed the design community. It has also had a big impact on how the showroom and the clients conduct business. The showroom has learned to be a different kind of resource. We have more interaction than ever before with the end-user. There are also many new, young designers in the city that are so incredibly talented. They push us to do custom projects that aren’t just custom furniture pieces, but whole room installations!
What design trend or aesthetic movement is going strong in Houston?
Marjorie – Clean, sleek, contemporary style. Layered neutrals and natural textures are often requested in the showroom.
The David Sutherland Showroom in Houston, TX
If a visitor to Houston has ONE DAY to get the right impression of Houston life, what would that day look like?
Marjorie-
To eat: Brasserie 19, Tiny Boxwoods, Ninfa’s on Navigation, Luling City Market BBQ,
To stay: Hotel Granducaor Hotel Zaza
To play: House of Blues or Mucky Duck, Houston Livestock and Rodeo in Feb-March, Houston Marathon, Museum of Fine Arts, The Menil Collection, NASA, Bayou Boat Tour, Kemah Boardwalk.
What is your favorite way you have seen Place used in your region?
Marjorie – The designer upholstered traditional French dining chairs with Catlina | Big Sky from Place Textiles. The chairs were then integrated into a formal dining room and library in a contemporary home.
Are you located in Houston area? Visit the David Sutherland Showroom to see the full range of fabric and interior products they represent!