Designer Profile
PIEDS-À-TERRE & PORTS-OF-CALL
The Interiors Crafted By Designer Darrell P. Wilson Reflect A Balance Of Aesthetics & Function BY ROGER GRODY
PHOTOGRAPH BY ROCCO CESELIN
AS PRINCIPAL DESIGNER at the prestigious Los Angeles-based firm of Mark Weaver & Associates (MWA), Darrell P. Wilson creates sophisticated residential environments driven by a passion for both classical and modern influences. Wilson-designed spaces are meticulously crafted, defined not only by distinctive aesthetics but also a sense of authenticity and seamless functionality. Wilson earned both his undergraduate and Master of Architecture degrees from Princeton University. Following stints at prominent architecture and interior design firms in New York City, he arrived in L.A. to pursue a Master of Fine
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Arts at Otis College of Art & Design. In Wilson’s residential projects the architecture, furnishings and art are exquisitely calibrated, while the incorporation of unique handcrafted elements contributes to a refined, tailored quality. With his perspective shaped by Gio Ponti, ÉmileJacques Ruhlmann and Mies van der Rohe, to name a few, the interior specialist is fluent in diverse languages of design. Wilson believes every residence should reflect a genuine sense of place, but authenticity can be interpretive. “The hallmark of a good designer is the ability to take a period or style and put your own touch on it,” he says, adding, “Whether it’s
Montecito, Nantucket or Miami, it should feel authentic, but the design must be yours.” Effective communication with clients, architects and artisans is a high priority for Wilson, who explains, “Our design approach at MWA is very conversational, and we’re not there to impose our aesthetics on the client.” As one who conducts extensive research for every commission, Wilson reports, “I seek out vintage books documenting details of the style, immersing myself in that visual aesthetic.” Rather than simply replicating historical genres, Wilson suggests MWA can be true to classical styles even while providing nuances that make