Design Crush: Brian J. McCarthy

When it comes to design idols, my list of favorite designers is a long one and continuously growing.

It usually when I come across the work of a designer in a magazine or stumble upon a book at the bookstore that I find a new crush like Brian J. McCarthy.

While flipping through the pages of Luminous Interiors recently, I was immediately drawn in by Brian’s work.  His design style is elegant without being fussy and every space he creates feels as if it were made up of pieces collected over the years.

 

When I read Brian’s bio and learned he was a former partner at the legendary design firm of Parish-Hadley I understood why his work has such a distinct style to it.

The spaces that Brian designs a filled with beautiful materials, finishes and a touch of the unexpected.  The artwork in this living room has a playful feel to it and helps to add a sense of relaxation to the space.

This dining room is probably my favorite space designed by Brian.  While the space contains lots of wood and dark surfaces, the depth and range of color that was used help keep the space from looking heavy and cavernous.  And I love, love, love the embossed wall panels.

This bedroom is also a great space.  Because of the beams and wood ceiling,  I think a lot of designers would have created a space that was more casual and relaxed.  I love that Brian kept the decor elegant and formal which provides a great contrast to the overall feel of the room.

Brian’s book if filled with stunning images from nine of his favorite projects.  As you walk through the pages of the book you’ll get an insight into Brian’s creative process, where he draws inspiration from and how each space was created to have a personality of its own.

Unfortunately Brian’s full design portfolio is not accessible by the public but you can check out more of  his work here, through the many publications that have featured him or on Pinterest.  And I recommend you add his book to your design library.  You can purchase his book here.