In the vibrant world of interior design, some names simply stand out. Scout Design Studio is one such trailblazer, a design showroom that has masterfully carved its niche by offering a diverse collection ranging from meticulously crafted furniture to captivating pop art and even whimsical life-size zebra sculptures. Their brand identity is as distinct and bold as the extraordinary pieces they curate and create, resonating deeply with those who seek to imbue their spaces with personality and unparalleled style.
A quick glance at their online presence immediately reveals their distinctive voice. Phrases like, “We’re not for everyone. Neither are you,” “Brassy and sassy,” and, “Blanche is back. Here for a good time, not a long time,” aren’t just taglines; they are a declaration of independence from conventional design norms. This audacious approach is precisely what draws discerning designers and homeowners to Scout Design, seeking items that tell a story and provoke a conversation.
The Visionaries Behind Scout Design: Flann Harris and Tiffany Taylor
Scout Design was co-founded in 2012 by the dynamic design duo, Flann Harris and Tiffany Taylor. Their journey began with a shared passion for vintage treasures and an astute eye for their potential. They entered the competitive marketplace with a clear vision: to unearth forgotten gems, then meticulously rework and reimagine these vintage pieces, breathing new life into them while preserving their inherent charm. This foundational philosophy allowed them to offer truly unique items that captivated an audience hungry for originality.
Today, Scout Design has grown exponentially, evolving into one of the established go-to destinations for both professional interior designers and private consumers alike. Their expansion isn’t just in their physical footprint but also in their influence, becoming a prominent voice in contemporary interior styling.
An Immersive Experience in the Design District Showroom
Every single inch of their expansive 15,000-square-foot showroom, nestled in the heart of the bustling Dallas Design District, is a testament to their unique aesthetic. It’s a carefully curated wonderland filled with an eclectic mix of unique, bold, and undeniably brash pieces that challenge perceptions and inspire creativity. While their roots remain firmly planted in vintage finds, these cherished relics now sit seamlessly alongside their exclusive, limited edition Scout Label furniture and bespoke home accessories. This harmonious blend of old and new creates an atmosphere where design eras effortlessly intertwine, showcasing Scout Design’s masterful ability to bridge the past and present.
Beyond simply selling furniture, Scout Design excels at designing and fabricating truly incredible pieces, which they then artfully style with the most engaging pop art, distinctive light fixtures, plush pillows, and exquisite pottery. The exciting part for visitors? Every single item on display is available for purchase, allowing clients to replicate the showroom’s inspired vignettes in their own homes, or pick out that one singular item that perfectly completes their vision.
If you are searching for that elusive element to truly distinguish your home from the ordinary, a visit to Scout Design is an absolute must. They don’t merely keep pace with prevailing design trends; they are consistently ahead of the curve, often setting new directions and occasionally giving established styles a fresh, unexpected twist. Meredith Bunch, a leading voice within Scout Design, recently shared her coveted list of the top five trends currently captivating the design world, offering invaluable insight into what’s hot and what’s next.
Leading Design Trends by Scout Design’s Meredith Bunch
1. The Allure of Burl Wood: Nature’s Artistry in High Gloss
For those who appreciate the exquisite beauty of natural wood patterns elevated with a luxurious high-gloss finish, Burl Wood is undoubtedly a trend to embrace. This distinctive wood grain, characterized by its swirling, intricate knots and unique formations, brings an organic yet sophisticated texture to any space. The Scout Design line currently features an impressive array of 12 Burl Wood designs, each one a testament to the material’s captivating versatility. If you’re seeking a focal point that offers a neutral palette but never fails to capture attention, consider starting with a piece like the Stella. Available as both a chest and a credenza, the Stella exemplifies how Burl Wood can effortlessly anchor a room, adding depth and a touch of refined elegance. Beyond credenzas, Burl Wood is making its mark on accent tables, decorative boxes, and even wall panels, offering a subtle yet powerful statement that transcends fleeting fads. Its inherent warmth and rich texture make it perfect for creating inviting yet undeniably chic interiors, blending seamlessly with both mid-century modern and ultra-contemporary aesthetics.
2. Grasscloth: Embracing Organic Texture and Subtle Sophistication
The desire for natural materials and tactile experiences continues to shape interior design, and Grasscloth is at the forefront of this movement. This timeless material instantly introduces a layer of organic texture to your walls and even your case goods, creating a visual and sensory richness that paint alone cannot achieve. Recognizing its enduring appeal, Scout Design has developed its own exclusive line of Grasscloth, available in a diverse palette of shades – from a playful sherbet-y orange to a calming denim blue. Whether you’re embarking on a full-scale wall treatment or simply wish to incorporate this beautiful texture into your furnishings, Scout offers flexibility. You can purchase a roll to undertake a DIY project or opt for a perfectly finished piece, such as the elegant Monarch Credenza. Grasscloth not only adds warmth and an inviting feel but also contributes to a more sustainable design approach, often crafted from renewable plant fibers. Its subtle variations in weave and color catch the light beautifully, adding dynamic depth without overwhelming the space. From serene bedrooms to sophisticated living areas, Grasscloth provides a quiet backdrop that allows other design elements to shine, or it can be a star in its own right.
3. Get Brassy and Sassy: The Enduring Appeal of Brass
Brass is back, and it’s making a significant statement in contemporary interiors. Far from its traditional, sometimes dated, connotations, modern brass has evolved into an incredibly versatile and elevated metallic that injects a touch of unexpected glamour and sophistication into any room or piece of furniture. Whether you prefer the sleek gleam of a polished finish or the subtle, understated elegance of brushed brass, this material adds a certain je ne sais quoi to your design scheme. It’s a metallic that feels both luxurious and approachable, capable of enhancing a wide range of styles from Art Deco to industrial chic. For those ready to go all-in on this trend, consider making a bold statement with brass counter stools – Scout Design’s collection includes captivating options like “Bourbon,” “Ballantine,” “Platte,” and the whimsically named “Don’t Ghost Me.” Beyond seating, brass finds its place in exquisite lighting fixtures, intricate hardware, decorative objects, and even as subtle inlays in furniture, proving its ability to adapt and shine in myriad applications. Its warm, golden hue adds an inviting glow, making spaces feel both opulent and welcoming, solidifying its status as a timeless yet utterly current design element.
4. Add Texture to Your Art: The Rise of 3D Artwork
Stepping inside the Scout Design showroom is an immersive experience, and one of the most striking elements is the incredible artwork that adorns every available surface. A prominent trend that Meredith Bunch highlighted is the burgeoning popularity of 3D artwork, which is literally popping up everywhere. This departure from traditional two-dimensional art adds incredible depth, dimension, and tactile interest to a space, transforming a flat wall into a dynamic canvas. Hong Kong-based artist Jen Lin, whose work is featured at Scout Design, epitomizes this trend with her breathtaking creations. Lin masterfully uses recycled and dyed paper, meticulously cut into the shape of butterflies, to construct iconic forms that are both intricate and stunning. Her pieces, such as “The Kiss,” captivate viewers with their delicate complexity and the way they interact with light and shadow, creating a constantly evolving visual experience. 3D artwork is not just about visual appeal; it introduces a sculptural element, making art a more interactive and engaging part of the interior landscape. Whether it’s paper, metal, textiles, or mixed media, dimensional art pieces become undeniable focal points, adding character and a unique narrative to any room, truly pushing the boundaries of conventional art display.
5. Gloss is Boss: The Art of Refinished Vintage
True to their foundational roots, Scout Design continues to honor and elevate vintage pieces through their signature refinishing techniques. A major highlight is their collection of high-gloss, lacquered, and reimagined vintage furniture. This trend celebrates the unique history and craftsmanship of yesteryear while infusing it with a distinctly modern, luxurious sheen. The magic lies in the transformation: an antique credenza, once perhaps faded and tired, emerges reborn with a brilliant, mirror-like finish that demands attention. Of course, in today’s sophisticated design landscape, vintage pieces are no longer confined to being paired solely with other vintage items. The “mix and match” philosophy reigns supreme, encouraging bold and personal combinations. Imagine pairing a radiant, shiny blue lacquered credenza with a contemporary white sofa and two playful “Mouth with Pins” pillows by Seletti. This eclectic juxtaposition exemplifies the world of high design that Scout Design champions – where history meets modernity, where unexpected pairings create unforgettable spaces. This approach not only results in unique, conversation-starting pieces but also champions sustainability by giving beloved furniture a second life, making them relevant and fashionable for decades to come. The gloss finish itself adds a layer of sophistication, reflecting light and making any room feel more expansive and opulent.
Experience the Scout Design Difference
Scout Design Studio stands as a beacon of innovation and bold creativity in the design world. Their ability to blend the charm of vintage finds with the cutting-edge appeal of their exclusive Scout Label collections, all while anticipating and setting new trends, positions them as leaders in the industry. Whether you’re seeking a statement piece, a complete room overhaul, or simply inspiration, Scout Design offers a unparalleled experience.
You can shop the distinctive collections of Scout Design Studio online for convenience, or immerse yourself in the full grandeur of their showroom experience. Located at 155 Howell Street, their doors are open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., inviting you to discover the extraordinary and redefine your living spaces with pieces that are as unique as you are.