Step into the world of Selby House, a distinctive design studio born from the visionary spirit of founder Cat Carothers. Her style, which she aptly describes as “eclectic contemporary,” is immediately apparent upon entering her Dallas Design District studio. Each meticulously selected piece, destined for mix-and-match versatility, radiates an effortless chic and boasts a character all its own. This isn’t just a showroom; it’s a testament to a philosophy where every item has a soul, waiting to tell its next story.
Carothers’ foundational vision for Selby House was elegantly simple yet profoundly impactful: to curate and customize timeless furnishings that resonate with a feeling of being genuinely “collected,” rather than merely “decorated.” With over a decade of rich experience in interior design, Cat Carothers possesses an unparalleled talent for seamlessly blending the sleek lines of modern aesthetics with the rich textures and historical narratives of traditional and vintage pieces. This nuanced approach allows her to create spaces that feel both fresh and deeply rooted, offering a refreshing departure from fleeting trends.
“I am intrinsically attracted to objects that carry a profound story, pieces that are imbued with meaning beyond their material form,” Carothers explains. “These are the treasures you envision passing down through generations, each acquiring new layers of history and sentiment with time. They aren’t just furniture; they are heirlooms in the making, connecting us to the past while shaping our future living spaces.” This philosophy underpins every selection at Selby House, ensuring that clients acquire not just an item, but a piece of enduring legacy.
In a world increasingly driven by mass production and disposable trends, Selby House stands as a beacon for thoughtful consumption and enduring design. Carothers meticulously sources items from various eras and origins, each chosen for its inherent beauty, quality craftsmanship, and narrative potential. Her expertise transforms what could be disparate elements into a harmonious whole, where a mid-century icon might sit effortlessly beside a rustic antique, and a contemporary artwork complements a vintage textile. This creates interiors that are deeply personal, reflecting the individuality and sophisticated tastes of those who inhabit them.
Among the celebrated pieces that have found a new lease on life at Selby House is a captivating Womb chair, a remarkable discovery from an auction. This chair, originally conceived by the visionary Finnish-born architect Eero Saarinen in 1946 (not Eliel Saarinen, though Eliel was his father and also a renowned architect), stands as a monumental representation of mid-century organic modernism. Its iconic, enveloping form is not just a design marvel but a symbol of comfort and aesthetic innovation, widely recognized for its fluid lines and inviting silhouette that cradles the occupant in unparalleled ease. This particular piece holds special significance for Carothers, marking a turning point in her curation journey.
“The Womb chair was one of the very first iconic pieces I felt compelled to invest in, willing to spend a little more money to acquire something truly special that spoke to me on a deeper level,” she recalls, highlighting her commitment to acquiring pieces of profound design heritage.
Beyond the Womb chair, Selby House’s collection boasts other extraordinary finds that epitomize the fusion of historical design with contemporary artistry. This includes a rare first-edition Groovy chair, an imaginative creation by the legendary Parisian designer Pierre Paulin, whose innovative use of foam and stretch fabric revolutionized seating. Also gracing the studio is a timeless Danish rocking chair by Georg Jensen, a name synonymous with Danish modernist design and unparalleled craftsmanship. Carothers’ transformative touch is evident in the meticulous restoration and reupholstering of both these treasures; the Groovy chair now captivates in a luxurious Rogers & Goffigon boucle, while the Danish rocking chair is redefined by the exquisite texture of Rosemary Hallgarten alpaca. These choices of premium fabrics not only preserve the integrity of the original designs but elevate them, infusing them with a renewed sense of modern luxury and comfort.
The essence of Selby House extends far beyond exceptional seating. The studio presents a meticulously curated assortment of tables, each telling its own design story; innovative lighting solutions that sculpt ambiance; elegant mirrors that expand visual space; unique ceramics bursting with artistic expression; and a myriad of other decorative items. These elements are not simply displayed; they are thoughtfully arranged into covet-worthy vignettes, each a miniature tableau designed to inspire and illustrate the potential of a truly collected home. These arrangements serve as a practical guide, demonstrating how disparate items can coalesce into a cohesive, aesthetically pleasing environment, reflecting Carothers’ innate ability to harmonize diverse styles and eras.
A quintessential example of Carothers’ masterful arrangement is a stunning vignette featuring a sexy Vladimir Kagan curvilinear “cloud” sofa, an icon of fluid modern design. This inviting piece is elegantly flanked by a Wharton Esherick sculptural mirror, its handcrafted form adding an element of organic artistry, and a perfectly proportioned round, three-legged oak coffee table that grounds the composition with natural warmth. This particular grouping epitomizes the Selby House aesthetic: a harmonious blend of sculptural forms, luxurious textures, and timeless design that creates an atmosphere of sophisticated comfort and artistic intrigue.
The physical embodiment of Selby House itself is situated within a vibrant multi-tenant building, strategically located just off Irving Boulevard in the pulsating heart of the Dallas Design District. “This space is simply phenomenal; it perfectly encapsulates my brand’s identity and resonates deeply with my personal aesthetic,” Carothers enthuses. Her experience living in New York profoundly shaped her desire for a location that pulses with a dynamic creative spirit. “Coming from New York, I was acutely aware of the importance of being immersed in a community that fosters innovation, where I could be near fellow designers, collaborate with expert upholstery vendors, and access skilled millworkers. The Dallas Design District offers precisely that ecosystem, a thriving hub where creativity converges and craftsmanship is celebrated.”
At Selby House, it’s not merely the exquisite pieces that come with a rich story; the very name of the studio is steeped in a captivating narrative of heritage and purpose.
The name “Selby House” serves as a profound homage to Cat Carothers’ great-great-great-grandfather, George D. Selby, and the groundbreaking shoe company he established in Portsmouth, Ohio, in the year 1880. This enterprise was revolutionary for its time, as Carothers explains, “It was an era when quality shoes were often an inaccessible luxury for many. My grandfather’s pioneering efforts fundamentally changed that landscape, making stylish and well-crafted footwear available to a broader public.” This historical commitment to accessibility and quality resonates deeply with the ethos of Selby House today, where exceptional design is thoughtfully curated and presented for those who appreciate lasting beauty and intrinsic value.
“He wasn’t just building a business; he was leaving an indelible mark on the world, a shining legacy that continues to inspire younger generations, including my own, to pursue their passions with integrity and vision,” Carothers shares, reflecting on her ancestor’s profound influence. This connection to a lineage of innovation and impact fuels her own mission, translating a historical spirit of entrepreneurship and dedication to craft into the contemporary realm of interior design and curated home furnishings. The Selby House, therefore, is more than a studio; it’s a continuation of a family legacy dedicated to enriching lives through thoughtful creation.
Looking ahead, Selby House is poised for exciting collaborations with the vibrant community of Dallas creatives, fostering a dynamic exchange of artistic expression. Among these promising partnerships is a venture with the acclaimed artist Huda Hashim, whose unique vision perfectly complements the Selby House aesthetic. “My aspiration is to provide a nurturing platform for talented artisans who may not yet have a dedicated studio space of their own,” Carothers elaborates. “Selby House can serve as a gallery, a showcase where they can proudly display their extraordinary work and connect with a discerning audience. It’s about building a creative ecosystem and celebrating local talent.” This initiative not only enriches the offerings at Selby House but also strengthens the artistic fabric of Dallas.
A key distinction of Selby House, setting it apart from traditional interior design practices, lies in its deeply personal curation. While interior design typically involves sourcing items tailored to a specific client’s preferences and existing space, Selby House is a direct reflection of Cat Carothers’ distinct personal taste and refined aesthetic. It’s a curated collection born from her passion, an exploration of what she genuinely loves and believes to be beautiful and enduring. Her go-to sources for discovering these unique treasures are as diverse and discerning as her collection itself, including the visually rich landscape of Instagram, the expansive offerings of the renowned Round Top Antique Fair, and the thrilling unpredictability of auction houses. Each channel offers distinct opportunities to unearth pieces with history, character, and exceptional design.
The thrill of the hunt is a significant part of the Selby House journey. Whether it’s patiently bidding at a live auction, meticulously sifting through countless online listings, or exploring the sprawling fields of an antique fair, Carothers approaches sourcing with an expert eye and a profound appreciation for craftsmanship. She looks for pieces that speak to her, pieces that possess an inherent quality and a compelling narrative, regardless of their origin or era. This dedication ensures that every item in the Selby House collection is not just aesthetically pleasing but also a testament to enduring design and quality.
When it comes to furnishing your own space, Cat Carothers offers perhaps the most empowering and timeless advice: “Always go with what genuinely resonates with you, what you truly love.”
She elaborates on this profound insight, emphasizing its importance for thoughtful interior design: “If you’re embarking on the journey to invest in a piece of furniture, whether it’s a cherished antique or a contemporary creation, your connection to it must be authentic. You absolutely have to love it—not just admire it, but feel a deep affection for its form, its history, its presence in your home.” This philosophy moves beyond fleeting trends and dictates, encouraging a more personal and sustainable approach to decorating.
“At the end of the day,” Carothers reassures, “when you fill your home with pieces that evoke joy and meaning for you, a natural cohesion will emerge. Your space will organically become a true reflection of who you are, creating an environment that feels both curated and profoundly personal, comfortable, and genuinely yours.” This heartfelt advice encourages individuals to trust their instincts and build a home that is a true sanctuary, rich with personal narrative and timeless appeal. Selby House serves as an invaluable resource and inspiration for those seeking to embark on this beautiful journey of creating a collected, not just decorated, living space.
Experience the curated world of Selby House firsthand. Visit the studio at 2042 Irving Blvd., Suite #140, nestled within the vibrant Dallas Design District. Studio Hours: Monday–Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or by convenient appointment.