Steven Hensel and Barbara Barry

There are but a few colleagues that I truly connect with in terms of their approach to design, inspiration, spirituality, and life in general. I venture to say that Barbara Barry is now the biggest name in design, and the one that I admire the most. If she had nothing to do with my industry, I would still be charmed by her kindness, at ease with her honesty, and inspired by her intelligence. Barbara Barry has got it all going on!

We first met a number of years ago. She was the presenter at the Northwest Design Awards Gala and I was fortunate to win in several categories that night. The following day I attended an enlightening presentation that she gave about her work for McGuire Furniture. Afterwards, we chatted and found that we have many interests in common, including a keen interest in Japanese art and antiquities. It turned out that she was staying at the Inn At The Market, just a block from my residence in the Pike Place Market in downtown Seattle. The next day we spent several hours together, starting with coffee at my home and then on to explore Kagedo, one of my favorite resources featuring some of the most gorgeous Japanese artifacts outside of Japan.

Just this past week, Barbara was back in Seattle to speak about her new Indochine collection. Alycia, my co-designer, and I just had to go. Listening to her I was reminded of how remarkable Barbara is in her ability to inspire. Her photos and observations on Asia piqued my excitement for my own upcoming trip to China. Afterwards, I was able to reconnect with this kindred spirit. Turns out, she has also met and befriended my dear friend, Ted Watson, when she visited Watson Kennedy Fine Living, one his marvelous stores.

You’ll find many of Barbara Barry’s furniture pieces, textiles, and carpets used here and there in my own work. They’re easy to incorporate, always fresh, chic, beautifully tailored and elegant – just like Barbara herself.