And what’s it like at the designer’s own home, come holiday time? He takes a more conservative approach. “Personally, I like more edited holiday decorations,” Marrs says. “A tree, sentimental
left The Louis XVI period dining room houses a collection of porcelains and antiques, including a Cartel bracket clock, an extensive collection of antique Meissen porcelain, and several pieces of China owned by Marie Antoinette. right “All of us worked on this magnificent door,” says Marrs. It was carved in the Louis XIV style out of mahogany by Pallas Design Group in Dallas, and is eight feet tall and more than 100 pounds. The lantern is reminiscent of those that hang in the halls and passages of Chateau Versailles. opposite page The hall of mirrors connects the formal rooms of the house to the private family rooms, and evokes the atmosphere of the mirrors at Versailles. The whimsical mural, vaulted ceiling, crystal chandeliers, and mirrors reflecting the windows overlooking the garden create a mesmerizing effect.
ornaments, personal things. I decorate with collections that I have – angels, nutcrackers – but I focus on specific areas such as fireplaces, center tables and the dining table. I am not one to put something ‘Christmas’ everywhere. A wreath on the front door is fine with me, maybe with garland around the door.” His favorite holiday memories involve family and friends, parties and Christmas dinners and gift openings. He favors small gatherings and often hosts several intimate dinner parties throughout the season, instead of one large get-together. His favorite room in his own home is an all-glass garden room. “It overlooks the garden and is filled with my collections of tole trays and antique hooked rugs. And the color scheme is red and green – perfect for Christmas!” He says it was pure pleasure being involved in this house, getting to know the Palkos and readying the house for seasonal festivities. “It was a real joy for me. What I love about this business is that you never know where it’s going to take you.” TH&L November/December 2010 • Texas Home & Living
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