Ep. 328: Stan Dixon, Celebrating Classic Architecture

This week we welcome celebrated architect and true luminary in the field, Stan Dixon. Stan is known for his timeless and seamlessly integrated classical approach to architecture and has numerous accolades under his belt, including being named one of the ‘New Faces of Southern Style’ by Garden & Gun, and prestigious awards such as the SE Architect of the Year Award by Veranda Magazine. He discusses his debut book, Home: The Residential Architecture of D. Stanley Dixon, and the beautiful way his book not only shows the gorgeous rooms and spaces but really details how people spent their real lives in the house. Stan talks about how to figure out which details to bring into a project, and how it’s all about the relationship between fixtures and the rest of the space.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

 The process behind photographing the homes used in Stan’s debut book, Home: The Residential Architecture of D. Stanley Dixon.

It was a real treat for Stan to go and take a couple of days to photograph each out because he and his team got to see it in a different light.

While we can keep it trendy for design, it’s best to keep architecture classic.

Stan’s tips for homeowners going through a ground-up renovation.

The intersection between design and architecture.

How Stan’s book helped give him even more clarity as an architect.

Stan talks about thinking in terms of space, and how architects are able to think of the feeling a space will give them while also mapping out the practicality.

The fun of floor plans!

How growing up in rural Tennessee outside of Nashville influenced Stan’s love of houses and design.

Stan talks about life with a wife who is an interior designer.

How he got a green Moroccan-themed room done in North Carolina. 

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

Home: The Residential Architecture of D. Stanley Dixon | Website 

Decorating Dilemma:

Hey there! So when it comes to choosing fixtures, it’s crucial to consider how they interact with the overall aesthetics of your room. As Stan reminds us, it's all about the relationship between fixtures and the rest of the space. In your case, we would recommend going with the bamboo fixture. It offers a unique contrast to the light fixtures hanging over the island, creating visual interest in the room. To soften the light and enhance the ambiance, consider adding shades to the bamboo fixture. This will not only provide a prettier and more diffused light but also contribute to the overall atmosphere you're aiming for in your space. Another option is that you don’t need a chandelier, because you may not be able to fully see the TV. 

If you need more light, you can add lamps although it looks like you already have enough. We love your layering and also feel that maybe some pattern or colored shades could be fun. Great job and let us know how it goes!