Curtis Stallard - Spaces and Places
Hillcrest home
There aren’t many who can claim to have hit the ground running, straight out of university, and into their chosen profession. Interior designer Curtis Stallard did, however, and became a success almost instantly.
Born in San Diego, and raised in Los Angeles, California, Stallard grew up in the kind of home that would foster a child's imagination. With a loving mother that would allow him to have as many (manageable) animals a child could possibly desire under one roof, it’s no wonder that he creates some of the most spacious and awe-inspiring designs.
You may think it of no consequence that Curtis Stallard is a man who puts as much care into each of his projects, as he does his health. He’s been a vegetarian for a decade, and works out five to six times a week, for two hours a day. He carries that same dedication and discipline over into his work. Looking at all he’s accomplished throughout his career, there can be no doubting.
What or who inspired you to become an interior designer?
Two Designers of the 1980’s, Jay Spectre and Kalef Alaton
Upon graduating university, you pretty much hit the ground running. You founded International Design Group, Inc., and were its creative director. It seems you were already on your way to building your enterprise, perhaps before graduation. Yes?
Absolutely, I was very ambitious from the beginning and started working for a design firm mid-way through college.
I noticed at your site that you do both commercial and residential designs, which of these do you find more challenging, and/or more fulfilling for you?
Definitely at the scale of hotels I was doing in China, there was a massive amount of details not to mention at that time I had a staff of 14 designers and 4 engineers, so that was challenging yet very fulfilling during my three years in Shanghai I completed four 600-4000 room hotels and resorts.
From your Instagram, it’s apparent you do quite a bit of traveling. Some say they draw inspiration from their travels. Does that apply to you as well?
One hundred percent! I have always loved to travel and because of my grandparents love of traveling, I have been flying my whole life, starting with my first flight on American Airlines when I was eight months old. I have found inspiration both creatively and personally during my travels...I think seeing different cities, cultures and topography are essential to ones growth.
Curtis Stallard
What are a few of your favorite destinations when traveling?
That’s such a tough question, one that almost everyone asks me at one time or another... and very hard to answer. Paris will always be very special to me as it was the first city in Europe that I visited. However, cities I could easily move tomorrow to would be Barcelona, Spain, Santiago, Chile and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Amsterdam, Netherlands and Venice, Italy are so unique and interesting in their own ways. But the place that I love where I relax and decompress the most is Puerto Vallarta, México. So that’s a long answer to a simple question, I know.
I'm in love with your Neoclassical design of the Bel-Air home at Crest Road. However, the Brentwood modern design is heavenly. The herringbone floors, with that soaking tub and that fabulous walk in closet is stunning.
Thank you!
Do you have a favorite design style?
Not exactly, unlike some designers that have a set “look” ....I like to reflect each clients lifestyle and culture into their interior, I find that more challenging and rewarding. I would say that all my interiors no matter what the style have a sense of openness, history and clarity.
You’ve designed on both the east and west coasts of the US, do either provide a particular experience the other does not?
Of course, working in New York has its challenges of space and in Los Angeles it’s the opposite. Considering I primarily work on homes that are 10K-50K square feet the challenge is making the huge volume of space seem like a home and not a hotel.
You mentioned New York as one of the places where you've designed. Where in particular, if I may ask?
Yes, the most recent was 81st & Park
Which materials are your favorite to work with, porcelain, Carrera marble, slate, etc.?
Hmmm, there are so many materials that go into a home... I would say, that I love the character of real stone and woods... whether it is Walnut, Sycamore or Macassar. Wood brings a warmth and beauty that is unmatched. In contrast Calacata, Beaumaniere or Carrara stone has its undeniable elegance.
What is your personal style when it comes to the home that you live in?
I live in a more modern space than most of my clients, although I do love interesting and historic accessories as well as art. I would describe my personal interior as true eclectic.
Did you start designing commercial real estate first or residential. Do you see yourself continuing to do both?
I think as with most Designers of high end homes, you start your career designing a home, then the husband likes your work and you design his offices, then possibly the family plane or yacht... then you segue into his projects whether it be buildings or hotels... at least that is how it happened for me.
What and where might your next venture be?
In the past I have had a furniture collection Copious as well as a fabric company Vecchio... However, at this stage in my career designing is where I concentrate my efforts.
You may find the rest of Curtis Stallard’s portfolio, or request his services at his website, and follow this link to his awesome Instagram account.
