Dallas native Mark Marynick has emerged as a significant and respected figure within the vibrant Dallas design and architectural communities. His profound understanding and innovative interpretations of both historic and contemporary designs in ornamental plaster are truly transformative. Casci Ornamental Plaster, under Marynick’s visionary leadership, brings an unparalleled Old-World quality to buildings and residences, seamlessly blending traditional elegance with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. This unique approach ensures that their work feels both timeless and perfectly suited for any modern setting.
Marynick’s masterful creations, from intricate ornamental plaster mantels to breathtaking decorative trim work, captivate onlookers. Each piece stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship, meticulous attention to scale, and unwavering commitment to quality. The result is a harmonious balance and enduring beauty that enhances every space they touch, setting a benchmark for luxury and architectural integrity.
We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Mark Marynick to delve deeper into his fascinating background, his artistic philosophy, and the inspirations that fuel his passion. We also discussed his compelling vision for Casci Ornamental Plaster, his highly esteemed and fan-favorite Dallas-based business, which continues to shape the landscape of high-end design.
The Genesis of a Career: Mark Marynick’s Path to Casci Plaster
Mark Marynick’s journey into the intricate world of ornamental plaster was a confluence of lifelong passions and serendipitous opportunities. Growing up in Dallas, art was an intrinsic part of his life. “I was always interested in art,” Mark recalls. This passion was deeply influenced by his mother, a talented artist herself, and further nurtured through various art classes during his time at Highland Park High School. His dedication to artistic pursuits continued even after sustaining an injury while playing football for Harvard. This unexpected downtime led him back to the studio, where he immersed himself in art classes. “I couldn’t get enough,” he admits, underscoring how art has consistently been a core component of his identity and a driving passion throughout his life.
After many years spent navigating the demanding world of private equity, a new, unforeseen path emerged. It was through a notable local architect and family friend, Wilson Fuqua, that Mark first heard about Casci. Fuqua described Casci as “a business that needed to be saved,” highlighting its historical significance and potential. This pivotal moment arrived at the perfect time for Mark. Acquiring Casci was a unique opportunity that allowed him to synergize a diverse range of skills he had meticulously cultivated over the years—from a keen understanding of business operations and financial strategy to a deep appreciation for art history and the nuances of traditional craftsmanship. This convergence of his professional acumen and artistic sensibility made the transition seamless and deeply rewarding. “I’ve never looked back!” he affirms, expressing his unwavering commitment to preserving and evolving Casci’s storied legacy.
Casci Ornamental Plaster: A Legacy of Unrivaled Craftsmanship and Bespoke Products
Casci Ornamental Plaster stands as a beacon of traditional artistry and unparalleled craftsmanship in the Dallas design scene. Founded in 1930 by Mr. Casci, a skilled Italian immigrant whose dedication to sculpting beautiful, authentically designed ornamental pieces was legendary, the company quickly established itself as the premier source for exquisite plasterwork. Mark Marynick proudly acquired the business in 2017, embarking on a mission to not only uphold but also elevate the exceptional standards and integrity that have defined Casci for decades. Under his stewardship, Casci continues to honor the rich traditions of excellence, paying meticulous attention to classic architectural principles while also embracing innovative design solutions.
At Casci, the product range and craftsmanship are truly bespoke, reflecting a deep respect for both historical accuracy and contemporary aesthetic desires. They specialize in creating a vast array of ornamental plaster elements, each designed to imbue spaces with unique character and sophisticated charm. Their offerings include custom-designed plaster mantels that serve as stunning focal points in any room, intricate decorative trim work that adds depth and texture to interiors, and elegant ceiling medallions that draw the eye upward, enhancing grandeur. Casci also crafts exquisite cornices, elaborate columns, and custom moldings, all meticulously produced to exact specifications. Beyond new installations, Casci is highly regarded for its expertise in historic plaster restoration, carefully preserving and replicating existing architectural details to maintain the integrity of heritage properties. Each piece is a testament to the artisan’s skill, employing time-honored techniques passed down through generations, ensuring durability and timeless beauty. The dedication to using superior materials and precise methodologies guarantees that every project embodies the pinnacle of ornamental plaster artistry, making Casci a cherished partner for architects, designers, and homeowners seeking to elevate their environments with authentic, handcrafted beauty.
Global Travels and Local Insights: A Wellspring of Inspiration
For Mark Marynick, inspiration is an ever-present force, drawn from a global tapestry of architectural wonders and keen observation. “I love to travel—across the US and around the world,” he shares, emphasizing how these journeys are not merely leisure but vital expeditions for creative discovery. His travels allow him to immerse himself in diverse architectural styles, from the grandeur of European palaces to the clean lines of modern structures, continuously broadening his design vocabulary.
His sister, residing in London, provides a recurring excuse to explore one of the world’s most architecturally rich cities. “Every time I visit, I enjoy wandering in and out of the incredible buildings the city boasts,” he recounts. Among his favorites are the breathtakingly large painted hall at The Royal Naval Academy in Greenwich, where every detail tells a story of historical artistry, and the Birmingham Stock Exchange building, an example of exquisite craftsmanship. The unparalleled attention to detail and scale in these historic edifices leaves a lasting impression, informing his approach to even the most contemporary projects. These encounters reinforce his belief that understanding classical proportions and decorative motifs is crucial for creating enduring beauty in any design.
Mark’s recent experience in New York City further illustrates his constant search for inspiration. He attended The Orchid Dinner at The Plaza Hotel, a prestigious event benefiting The New York Botanical Garden, where one of Casci’s bespoke plaster urns was skillfully incorporated into a stunning tablescape by fellow Dallas designer Javier Burkle. Even amidst the elegance of the gala, Mark’s discerning eye was drawn elsewhere. “As we were walking down a staircase to the gala, I couldn’t take my eyes off the hotel’s plasterwork,” he confesses. This ability to analyze designs and applications in any setting, whether a grand hotel, a historic landmark, or a simple building, underscores his unwavering passion and dedication. It’s this continuous process of observation, analysis, and interpretation that allows him to translate diverse influences into unique and captivating ornamental plaster solutions for his clients, bridging the gap between historical grandeur and modern sophistication.
Exciting Ventures and a Vision for the Future: Casci’s Latest Projects and Expansion Plans
Casci Ornamental Plaster has a distinguished history of contributing to an array of high-profile and architecturally significant projects. “We’ve been honored to work on a variety of so many exciting projects over the years,” Mark states, highlighting their involvement in multiple rooms for both the 2020 and 2021 Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas—an acclaimed event that sets trends in luxury interior design. Their expertise has also been crucial in a wonderful historic preservation project in New Orleans, among many others, underscoring their versatility across different architectural styles and regions.
Looking to the current year, Mark expresses particular enthusiasm for several ongoing endeavors. “This year, I love the work we’re doing at Old Parkland,” he notes. Old Parkland is renowned for its meticulously crafted historic architecture and continuous development, making it a perfect canvas for Casci’s intricate plasterwork, where precision and historical accuracy are paramount. Additionally, they are involved in a large-scale residence on Turtle Creek near the University Park fire station, a project that allows for expansive and intricate plaster applications, creating a truly bespoke living environment. A highly anticipated collaboration is also underway with acclaimed NYC-based architect Peter Pennoyer, known for his classical yet contemporary designs. This partnership is expected to yield breathtaking results, further cementing Casci’s reputation on a national level and pushing the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship in modern contexts.
Beyond current projects, Casci Ornamental Plaster is poised for a significant and exciting expansion. Mark anticipates plans to consolidate Casci’s operations into a new, state-of-the-art facility. This new location will be situated in the historic old Mrs. Baird’s building, just east of downtown Dallas, with a hopeful relocation by the end of 2022. This move represents a strategic step forward, designed to enhance efficiency and foster greater collaboration. “We can’t wait to offer a one-stop location for designers and industry professionals to view and discuss projects with us,” Mark enthuses. This consolidated space will serve not only as a workshop but also as an impressive showroom and a collaborative hub, allowing clients to experience the quality and breadth of Casci’s work firsthand, consult with experts, and envision the transformative power of ornamental plaster in their own projects. This expansion signifies Casci Ornamental Plaster’s commitment to continued growth, innovation, and its enduring role as a cornerstone of the Dallas design community, preserving artistic traditions while crafting the future of architectural elegance.