Get to know Marty Wilkinson...
Where do you find inspiration when starting a new project?
“We specialize in home staging, so I like to say “We stage for the house” - keeping in mind the architecture, flow and how a person would live in the house. We have to create an environment that would attract that special person to that particular house. So the inspiration comes from “creating that perfect buyer” and then translating that into an interior that would draw that buyer in.”
What inspired (most excited) you about this year's theme / house?
“When I heard it was “Old Mex New Mex” I immediately thought about how much I loved the azure waters of “Old” Mexico - having visited Mexico many times I love the amazing coastlines and water surrounding the “Old Country” ...and then the fabulous sunsets that we have here in “New Mexico” - Santa Fe! ”
Is there a design rule you love to break?
“Don’t try to make a “dark” room “light”! If it is a room that doesn’t get a lot of light, go with it! Create a warm and inviting environment with darker colors and rich textures that celebrate the location of the room!”
If you were reborn as a piece of furniture or decor object, what would it be? and why?
“I used to “not love” the Victorian furniture that I grew up with in my parent’s house, but now I have several pieces from my parent’s “collection” that I have re-upholstered in fantastic fabrics and cowhides and they have been revived into a new life! I’d like to be that “old Victorian settee with animal print cowhide”! And tell the tales of all the folks that sit on me!”
What would be your dream project?
“Just about every house we stage is a “dream project” - we get to exercise our design ideas and create an atmosphere that is best for the house - and then a buyer comes in and feels so fantastic in the house that they buy it! That’s a win/win/win for everyone involved!”
Finish the sentence: Every room needs _________.
“a fantastic pillow (or 10)!”
