Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1439511
A darling of the Dallas design scene, Javier Burkle of Burkle Creative has been taking the industry by storm. Javier and his team are beloved for a wide range of notable projects: from the Aspen opening of fan-favorite fashion boot shop Miron Crosby to his hit primary closet and dressing room at the 2021 Dallas Kips Bay Decorator Show House and turnkey client projects around town. We sat down with Javier to learn more about his personalized approach, favorite design trends, and, of course—his legendary entertaining tips. How many years in design: More than a decade. I spent the first several years of my career working in visual design for Ralph Lauren before opening my own firm, Burkle Creative, six years ago. What people want in design today: People have a deeper understanding that they need their spaces to really work. More and more—especially post- pandemic—lifestyle choices continue to evolve from homes with undefined, airy spaces to a preference for more intimate, specific, and smaller rooms with a layered look. How you make your designs really special: I'm dedicated to creating spaces that are full of character by incorporating each client's one-of-a-kind treasures from their travels, family heirlooms, and treasured collections. Every style, from traditional to contemporary, is enhanced by the telling of homeowners' stories through special pieces. Paint color you are dying to try: Monkey Puzzle by Farrow & Ball. I'm obsessed with the color depth. Vintage design book every designer should have on their shelves: So many good ones, it's hard to pick. But one I always go back to is Decorating in Detail by Alexa Hampton. No room is complete without ... Dimmers! Lighting is everything! The one thing you strike from a room — always: Bad wall texture. Javier Burkle Burkle Creative info@burklecreative.com burklecreative.com JAVIER BURKLE GETTING TO KNOW PAPERCITY ADVERTORIAL Kitchen designed by Javier Burkle Miron Crosby Aspen designed by Javier Burkle Javier Burkle STEPHEN KARLISCH COSTA Best advice to clients at the beginning of a project: Trust your designer—you hired them for a reason! Secondly, honestly communicate your goals for each space, whether for entertaining, work, family life, or even if the room is designed simply to look pretty (like a formal entryway!). What's hot for design in 2022: Curated, collected, cozy interiors for intimate living and entertaining. How to marry form and function: The right fabric is paramount for a piece to stand the test of time with durability. I also love to layer rugs in high-traffic spaces. Neighborhood you call home: West Highland Park. I love everything about this little corner of the Park Cities—we have a rich sense of community with our neighbors and a shared adoration for the area's the well-preserved, historic homes. Favorite room in your house: Without a question, the dining room—I love to throw dinner parties! Our small, intimate space is the ideal setting for memorable conversation. I'm also super excited about the new hand- drawn ceiling that local artist Ashley Braithwaite recently completed. Predictions for design: People want personality-filled spaces—and they're willing to work on their homes patiently while remaining open-minded to bespoke looks, bolder colors, and innovative patterns. No one wants a "catalogue-look." No. 1 entertaining tip: Always start with a great cocktail?! In my opinion, themed parties are a super fun way to entertain. I often ask my guests to bring their favorite dish to share that coordinates with the theme (my Mardi Gras party is an annual favorite!). Design in Five! Go-to interior white paint hue: Always good to try it in in the space, but one of my favorites is Benjamin Moore's Chantilly Lace — always clean and timeless. 74