Decorative statements are rarely made with a whisper—and as aesthetics go, Dallas’ new Garde is unabashedly outspoken. The West Coast import, owned by California ex-pats Scotti Sitz and John Davidson, opened a 6,000-square-foot store on Wycliff late last year, showcasing an expertly curated mix of lighting, furnishings, and home accessories by emerging and established designers from around the world. Coveted international lines—including Parisian brand Pierre Augustin Rose, Milan’s cc-tapis, and London designer Faye Toogood—are interspersed with domestic offerings from the likes of Apparatus, Bec Brittain, and Ben and Aja Blanc.
Regardless of their countries of origin, though, the makers featured at Garde have one thing in common. “There’s a big consideration for what they’re putting out there and how they do it,” Sitz says. “We call it slow furniture because it is oftentimes one of a kind. That I really appreciate.” —Rhonda Reinhart
Does every room need a statement piece?
We posed this questions to interior designers across Dallas. Here’s what they said.
Yes
“We believe every room should leave you curious in some way—not every room has to knock you over, but curious! It can be by way of a small detail, an unusual use of color, or something so loud it takes over the room.” —Morgan Farrow, Morgan Farrow Interiors
“Why not? It doesn’t have to be large or loud. It can be a piece of art, an antique, a collectible. I believe something should always catch your eye when you move through a home.” —Heidi Arwine, Heidi Arwine Interiors
“It’s nice to have at least one interesting conversation piece. I love to use a touch of whimsy as a good conversation starter.” —Dona Rosene, Dona Rosene Interiors
No
“No, I believe a room should be a beautiful composition of items that support each other.” —Mil Bodron, Bodron/Fruit
“I like to rely on the entire composition to be the conversation. I like special but quiet details used liberally.” —Barry Williams, Williams Design Inc.
“If you’ve led an interesting life, you’re going to find something to talk about in every room. Don’t try to force it.” —John Bobbitt, Bobbitt & Company
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