It’s Domino Day!
by habituallychic
09 . 21 . 07
This morning, I was checking out Domino online when I stumbled upon a House Tour with designer Barrie Benson. I didn’t really realize who she was until I started recognizing the amazing design job she did for the home of Charlotte boutique owner Laura Vinroot Poole that was published in the February 2007 issue.
Then when I went to the newsstand to pick up the October issue of Domino, guess who was on the cover, the designer herself, Barrie Benson! I have to say, it’s probably one of my favorite all time Domino covers. I leafed through it a little but I can’t wait to really sit down and read it this weekend. It looks like it’s going to be a really great issue.
Below are just a few photos from Barrie’s 1956 ranch house in Charlotte, North Carolina that she shares with her family. Enjoy! 
Photos by Laura Resen
16 Comments
Stunning–just as wonderful as the Poole house. Can’t wait to peruse my Domino…if it ever gets here!
I feel your pain about how long the magazines take to arrive. That’s why I just go out and buy them.
I can’t wait to get my issue…thanks for the preview though, now I’m going to be waiting by the mailbox until this comes 🙂
~Kate
Kate, there are sooo many great homes featured, it makes me want to redecorate. Seriously, this is the best issue in a long tim! You’re going to love it!
Hi – How would you characterize the style of this designer, or of her house? Maybe it defies a simple description. The architecture has such an influence on my impressions.
That is a powerful cover. It will be a huge seller.
I’m living vicariously through your blog – my last two subscription issues of Domino have not yet arrived, and it’t available on the stands here….
Things that Inspire,
Great question! My first thought was that she exemplifies what is going on with design right now. Designers and real people are taking things they love, family antiques, flea market finds, new pieces from West Elm and mixing them all together to create a truly personal environment. I think we need to come up with a name for this style so it’s easier to describe.
I went back to the article to see what Barrie has to say and she said that although the house is mid-century, they decided not to furnish it mid-century and to mix different periods and styles. I think it looks fabulous and I’m so glad you liked it too!
Liberty Post Editor, I really do think it’s one of their best covers! It’s so striking!
Suzy, Oh no! I always think about how much I would love to live abroad, but then how would I survive without my magazines!
there’s something so fun about getting your new issue in the mail, isn’t there? Sadly, I received too many on the same day and will be juggling issues all week. So I was delighted to see you point out some of the better features.
And the cover – I agree – was fabulous!
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You should go to Jackie’s blog and see the post she did on this designer…it is food for thought:
http://jackiebluehome.blogspot.com/2007/09/designer-homage-or-blatant-rip-off-you.html
oops i accidentally deleted my own comment. i know there’s some controversy swirling around her “snaking” of rooms, but i stand by my love for this cover…and the shots by Laura Resen are lovely.
Patricia, I’ll have to check it out. Thanks.
Josyln, I read some of the hoopla, I think designers take inspiration from others all the time. She just happpened to be honest about it. She gave her client a version they could afford. Not everyone can hire a top interior designer. I still like Barrie’s designs no matter what anyone says!