Darrell Peart is a master craftsman and woodwork artisan, creating custom furniture from his website Darrell Peart Furniture Maker, based in Seattle, Washington. Darrell started his career selling small wooden items at craft markets in Seattle, then honed his skills by working for high-end custom shops crafting custom furniture. He is passionate about exploring new design ideas and woodworking techniques. Darrell’s writing has also been featured in Home Furniture, American Woodworker and Style 1900. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Darrell Peart.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I love to highlight structural elements and let them drive the aesthetic. Down to the smallest detail, it all should pay homage to the design as a whole.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
It varies, but usually involves initial false steps or no steps (blockage) . I avoid working from formulas but instead get a “feel” for the project. Once there, the details usually fall into place quickly.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I seldom work with others but feel a connection with Charles Greene (Greene & Greene). I have studied his work for years and am truly amazed at the level of detail. Even the smallest of elements had a purpose and related back to the design as a whole. He often was able to take a structural problem and solve it in such a way that transformed it into both an aesthetic and structural asset.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I often work up analogies in my head such as visualizing a design’s structure as possessing DNA. Combined with this, I may be inspired with the structure of - say a bridge. I let the scenario play out as if it is bridge DNA that is calling the shots throughout the design.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I started my career with a burning desire to learn about design. My early efforts were unsophisticated but truly of my own creation. Somewhere along the line I tried to impress others. This was a mistake. I have since learned to let my own intuition be my guide. My advice to others would be to nurture your personal vision.[Max. 50 words]
