A podcast about the design world
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Steven Cooper In this episode, we sit down with Steven Cooper, principal designer of Cooper Pacific Kitchens and Cabinet Los Angeles, to explore the intersection of art and functionality in kitchen design. As Cooper Pacific Kitchens approaches its 40th anniversary,...
Benjamin Johnston Interior designer and architect Benjamin Johnston brings a deeply human approach to creating refined, timeless spaces that defy categorization and trends. With formal training in architecture including a master's degree and experience working on...
Laura Williams Laura Williams, founder of Living Oak Design in Austin, Texas, joins the show to share her remarkable journey from opera singer to sought-after interior designer. Growing up in a creative family of musicians and artists, Laura always had an eye for...
Matt Donahoe In this episode of "Beyond the Design," host Matt Donahoe, founder of Bureau Interiors, shares insights into his unique design philosophy that blends comfort with sophistication. Influenced by his European upbringing and a love for literature, Matt...
Christine Vroom Interior designer Christine Vroom joins us to discuss the art and craft of creating timeless homes. In this conversation, Christine shares how she defines timeless design—yrooted in history and the evolution of color, materials, and architectural...
Mark Jupiter Some lives are shaped not by ease, but by endurance. Mark Jupiter's story is one of building and building again, each time with greater intention. From the raising of timber frames to the quiet poetry of handcrafted furniture, his work speaks to a belief...
Jennifer Press For New York–based designer, mom, and former fencer Jennifer Press, home is more than a backdrop—it is a refuge that should either soften a hard day or extend a joyful one. In this conversation, she shares how she listens deeply to clients to build...
Shaolin Low In this episode of Beyond the Design, host Cray Bauxmont-Flynn interviews Shaolin Low, an interior designer with a unique journey from event production to interior design. Shaolin shares her experiences of transitioning careers, the influence of her...
John Pomp In this episode, we delve into the world of John Pomp, a master of transforming raw materials into stunning works of art. Learn about his inspirations, challenges, and the innovative processes that define his craft. John opens up about his journey from a...
Kelsey Matyas Discover the inspiring journey of Kelsey Matyas, the creative mastermind behind Kelsey Deidre Designs, who bravely transitioned from the world of corporate advertising to the realm of interior design. Growing up in a vibrant beach town in New Jersey,...
Certain things capture your eye, but only pursue those that capture the heart
BEYOND THE DESIGN
Hosted by beloved design-insider Cray Bauxmont-Flynn, Beyond the Design aims to educate, inspire and connect with top brands, industry professionals, and design influencers to look behind the glamour of the design industry.
Follow Our Journey
The Art of the Kitchen — Celebrating the Extraordinary Talent of Steven Cooper
True design mastery lives in the details — and Steven Cooper, principal of Cooper Pacific Kitchens, brings an extraordinary level of artistry, precision, and vision to every space he creates. In this captivating episode of Beyond the Design, host @cray.bflynn sits down with a designer whose immense talent has shaped some of the most refined kitchens across the globe.
With nearly four decades of experience, Steven’s work transcends traditional cabinetry and layout. His approach blends architecture, craftsmanship, and emotional storytelling, transforming kitchens into environments that feel both timeless and deeply personal. From international projects to collaborations with iconic brands like Cabinet and Le Cornue, his creative perspective continues to influence the evolution of modern kitchen design.
What makes Steven’s talent truly exceptional is his ability to balance innovation with heritage. Inspired by a lineage of builders and guided by a philosophy rooted in listening and intention, he creates spaces that celebrate natural materials, thoughtful proportion, and the beauty of everyday rituals. His kitchens are not just functional — they are sculptural, soulful, and designed to elevate the way people live.
This conversation highlights a designer who leads with humility while redefining excellence, proving that the most impactful spaces are born from both technical mastery and heartfelt creativity.
✨ Steven, thank you for sharing your immense talent, your creative insight, and your inspiring journey with us. Your work continues to set a remarkable standard for the design world.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design
🔗 Discover more: https://cooperpacific.com - @cooperpacifickitchens
#StevenCooper #CooperPacific #KitchenDesign #DesignMastery #LuxuryKitchens TimelessCraft DesignPodcast ArchitecturalInteriors BespokeDesign FunctionalArt DesignExcellence CreativeVision
Open
Craft, Legacy & Innovation — A Conversation with Steven Cooper of Cooper Pacific
Some designers create kitchens. Steven Cooper creates experiences — spaces where artistry, precision, and daily ritual come together in perfect harmony. In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Design, host Cray Bauxmont-Flynn sits down with the visionary principal of Cooper Pacific Kitchens to explore nearly four decades of creative leadership, craftsmanship, and global influence.
As Cooper Pacific approaches its remarkable 40-year milestone, Steven reflects on a career shaped by heritage and evolution — from lessons learned alongside his builder father and grandfather to designing bespoke kitchens around the world, from Tokyo to Palm Beach’s iconic Tiffany’s building. His work stands at the intersection of architecture, functionality, and emotional storytelling, redefining what it means to design the heart of the home.
Throughout the conversation, Steven shares his philosophy of balancing form and function with intention. He speaks about listening deeply to clients, embracing the patina and authenticity of natural materials, and crafting kitchens that elevate everyday moments into meaningful rituals. Whether collaborating with the renowned British brand Cabinet, contributing to the Le Cornue global design council, or drawing inspiration from Los Angeles’ diverse architectural landscape, Steven’s perspective reflects a rare blend of artistry and technical mastery.
This episode is a celebration of design that endures — spaces built not just to be admired, but to be lived in. Steven reminds us that kitchens are more than rooms; they are stages for connection, creativity, and life’s most authentic experiences.
✨ Steven, thank you for sharing your extraordinary vision, your creative leadership, and your passion for craftsmanship with us. It was an honor to have you on the show.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design
🔗 Discover more: https://cooperpacific.com - @cooperpacifickitchens
#BeyondTheDesign #StevenCooper #CooperPacific #KitchenDesign #DesignLeadership LuxuryKitchens Craftsmanship ArchitecturalDesign
Open
Vision. Talent. Leadership — A Powerful Conversation with Benjamin Johnston
There are designers who create beautiful spaces… and then there are creatives like Benjamin Johnston, whose work reshapes how we think about design itself. In this compelling episode of Beyond the Design, host Cray Bauxmont-Flynn welcomes a visionary whose immense talent, architectural precision, and fearless creativity continue to influence the global design conversation.
His signature philosophy of classic, curated, and cool has positioned him as a true creative leader, bringing thoughtful storytelling and elevated artistry into every project. From breaking traditional rules of scale to championing human-centered design, Benjamin’s voice represents a powerful evolution in how we experience interiors today.
A highlight of our discussion centers around his new book, Refined Interiors—a beautifully crafted reflection of his design journey and philosophy. More than a showcase of projects, the book captures his creative mindset, revealing how architecture, emotion, and narrative intertwine to create spaces that feel both timeless and deeply personal. It’s a testament to his thought leadership and a celebration of the discipline and imagination that define his work.
✨ Benjamin, thank you for sharing your extraordinary talent, your creative leadership, and your vision with us. It was an honor to have you on the show and celebrate this exciting new chapter with Refined Interiors.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design
🔗 Discover more + explore the book: https://www.benjamin-johnston.com - @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #BenjaminJohnston #RefinedInteriors #DesignLeadership #CreativeVisionary InteriorArchitecture LuxuryInteriors DesignThoughtLeader CreativeExcellence
Open
Turning Vision into Legacy: Celebrating Benjamin Johnston’s Refined Interiors
A true creative voice doesn’t just design spaces—it shapes the way we see design. In this compelling episode of Beyond the Design, host @cray.bflynn welcomes architect and interior designer Benjamin Johnston for a powerful conversation centered around his highly anticipated new book, Refined Interiors.
More than a collection of beautiful rooms, Refined Interiors is a window into Benjamin’s creative philosophy—where architecture, storytelling, and emotional intelligence converge. Known for his signature blend of classic, curated, and cool, Benjamin shares how the book reflects years of thoughtful evolution, revealing the ideas, challenges, and inspirations that continue to define his work today.
Throughout the episode, Benjamin opens up about the intention behind the pages—why timeless design is rooted in perspective rather than trend, and how the process of documenting his projects became an act of reflection and creative growth. From dramatic scale shifts to deeply personal client collaborations, the book captures the essence of his artistry: spaces that feel layered, intelligent, and undeniably human.
This conversation explores how Refined Interiors represents more than a milestone—it’s a manifesto for designers who believe in pushing boundaries while honoring history and craft. Benjamin’s thought leadership shines through as he discusses mentorship, innovation, and the responsibility designers carry to create beauty with purpose.
✨ Benjamin, congratulations on this extraordinary achievement, and thank you for sharing your vision, your voice, and your creative brilliance with us. Your work continues to inspire the future of design.
📖 Discover Refined Interiors
🔗 https://www.benjamin-johnston.com - @benjaminjohnstondesign
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design.
#BenjaminJohnston #RefinedInteriors #DesignThoughtLeader #CreativeVisionary #luxuryi̇nteriors
Open
A Dialogue in Design: Vision, Voice, and Creative Leadership with Benjamin Johnston
When immense talent meets fearless creative thinking, the conversation becomes more than design—it becomes a movement forward. In this powerful episode of Beyond the Design, host @cray.bflynn sits down with visionary architect and interior designer Benjamin Johnston, whose work continues to redefine what it means to be a true creative thought leader in today’s design landscape.
Benjamin brings a rare balance of architectural discipline and artistic intuition, shaping spaces that feel timeless yet entirely of the moment. Throughout this dynamic exchange, he shares how his philosophy—classic, curated, and cool—is less about aesthetic and more about perspective. His voice in the industry is one that challenges convention, encourages risk-taking, and places human connection at the center of every project.
Together, Cray and Benjamin explore the responsibility designers carry as storytellers and cultural interpreters. From breaking rules around scale and proportion to empowering the next generation of creatives, Benjamin’s insights reveal a mind constantly evolving—one that views design not as a static outcome, but as an ongoing conversation between history, innovation, and personal expression.
What makes this episode so compelling is not only Benjamin’s extraordinary talent, but his willingness to share the why behind his work—how he listens deeply to clients, leads with empathy, and uses creativity as a catalyst for positivity and growth within the industry.
✨ Benjamin, thank you for bringing your brilliance, generosity, and visionary leadership to the show. Your perspective continues to inspire how we think, create, and move design forward.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design.
🔗 Discover more: https://www.benjamin-johnston.com - @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #BenjaminJohnston #DesignThoughtLeader #CreativeLeadership #CrayBauxmontFlynn InteriorArchitecture DesignVisionary RefinedInteriors TimelessDesign DesignInnovation LuxuryInteriors CreativeDialogue HumanCenteredDesign DesignPodcast ElevatedConversations
Open
Where “Cool” Meets Connection: Designing Homes That Truly Listen
Some homes look cool. Others feel cool—because they reflect the people who live inside them. In this episode of Beyond the Design, visionary architect and designer Benjamin Johnston shares how the real magic of great interiors isn’t about imposing a signature style, but about listening deeply and translating a client’s individuality into spaces that feel authentic, effortless, and entirely their own.
Benjamin describes his approach as part editor, part storyteller. The “cool factor” doesn’t come from trends or formulas—it comes from the clients themselves. Their collections, their memories, their personalities become the heartbeat of the design. His role is to refine, elevate, and curate those elements into something timeless while ensuring every client feels seen, heard, and respected throughout the process.
This conversation dives into the art of balancing bold creativity with genuine collaboration. Benjamin speaks about creating environments that feel layered and expressive, yet grounded in trust and communication. Oversized lighting, unexpected proportions, and theatrical moments may define the aesthetic—but the real foundation is the relationship he builds with clients, guiding them with confidence while honoring their voice.
At its core, Benjamin’s work reminds us that great design isn’t about ego—it’s about empathy. It’s about creating homes that hold space for life, personality, and evolution.
✨ Thank you, Benjamin, for sharing your incredible insight and for continuing to lead the industry with creativity, generosity, and vision.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design.
🔗 Explore more: https://www.benjamin-johnston.com - @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #BenjaminJohnston #DesignThoughtLeader #ClientCenteredDesign #ClassicCuratedCool InteriorDesignPodcast LuxuryInteriors DesignWithEmpathy CreativeCollaboration TimelessHomes DesignDialogue ModernArchitecture SpacesWithPersonality DesignLeadership
Open
Classic, Curated, Cool: The Design Without Limits: The Visionary Mind of Benjamin Johnston
There are designers who follow the conversation—and then there are those who shape it. In this powerful episode of Beyond the Design, we sit down with Benjamin Johnston, a rare creative force whose immense talent, architectural intellect, and fearless imagination have positioned him as a true thought leader in today’s design world.
His philosophy—classic, curated, and cool—is more than a tagline; it’s a design manifesto. Classic in its reverence for proportion and history. Curated in its precision and storytelling. Cool because it refuses to be confined by expectation. Benjamin challenges scale, embraces theatricality, and designs with an editorial eye that elevates his clients’ individuality above fleeting trends.
As a creative leader, author of Refined Interiors, and founder of a globally recognized studio, Benjamin continues to push the industry forward—launching thoughtful product collaborations, mentoring the next generation of designers, and championing craftsmanship that honors both tradition and innovation. His work reminds us that great design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about vision, courage, and the willingness to think differently.
✨ Benjamin, thank you for sharing your extraordinary perspective, your creative brilliance, and your generosity of spirit with us. Your voice continues to inspire the future of design.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design.
🔗 Discover more: https://www.benjamin-johnston.com @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #BenjaminJohnston #DesignThoughtLeader #CreativeVisionary #RefinedInteriors ArchitecturalMindset InteriorDesignMasters DesignLeadership TimelessInteriors
Open
Refined, Rooted, Remarkable: The Vision of Benjamin Johnston
Step into a world where design is both deeply personal and profoundly architectural—where classic elegance meets curated storytelling and bold, theatrical choices are never off the table. In this episode of Beyond the Design, we’re joined by the incredibly talented architect and interior designer, Benjamin Johnston, whose creative path is as inspiring as the spaces he creates.
From the skyscrapers of Tokyo to the intimate nooks of family homes, Benjamin’s journey is a masterclass in scaling vision, refining intention, and celebrating individuality. After working on monumental projects alongside the legendary César Pelli, Benjamin made a bold shift to focus on human-scaled, emotionally resonant interiors—bringing his architectural mastery into every material choice, silhouette, and line.
He describes his signature style as classic, curated, and cool. “Classic” in its embrace of timeless principles—balance, proportion, cultural layering. “Curated” in its intentionality—every object tells a story, no space is filler. And “cool”? That comes from his clients. Benjamin sees himself as the editor, not the author—elevating the personal artifacts and stories that define his clients’ lives.
Benjamin’s humility, humor, and belief in design as a force for connection shine throughout this conversation. Whether he’s designing for a high-profile residence or mentoring his team, his mission remains steady: create beauty, spread positivity, and leave people better than you found them.
🎧 Tune in now to hear the full conversation.
🔗 Explore Benjamin’s work: benjamin-johnston.com @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #benjaminjohnstondesign #InteriorArchitecture #RefinedInteriors #DesignWithPurpose TimelessDesign StoryDrivenSpaces ClassicCuratedCool ArchitecturalElegance DesignLeadership CreativeJourney DesignMentorship HumanCenteredDesign
Open
The Art of the Kitchen — Celebrating the Extraordinary Talent of Steven Cooper
True design mastery lives in the details — and Steven Cooper, principal of Cooper Pacific Kitchens, brings an extraordinary level of artistry, precision, and vision to every space he creates. In this captivating episode of Beyond the Design, host @cray.bflynn sits down with a designer whose immense talent has shaped some of the most refined kitchens across the globe.
With nearly four decades of experience, Steven’s work transcends traditional cabinetry and layout. His approach blends architecture, craftsmanship, and emotional storytelling, transforming kitchens into environments that feel both timeless and deeply personal. From international projects to collaborations with iconic brands like Cabinet and Le Cornue, his creative perspective continues to influence the evolution of modern kitchen design.
What makes Steven’s talent truly exceptional is his ability to balance innovation with heritage. Inspired by a lineage of builders and guided by a philosophy rooted in listening and intention, he creates spaces that celebrate natural materials, thoughtful proportion, and the beauty of everyday rituals. His kitchens are not just functional — they are sculptural, soulful, and designed to elevate the way people live.
This conversation highlights a designer who leads with humility while redefining excellence, proving that the most impactful spaces are born from both technical mastery and heartfelt creativity.
✨ Steven, thank you for sharing your immense talent, your creative insight, and your inspiring journey with us. Your work continues to set a remarkable standard for the design world.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design
🔗 Discover more: https://cooperpacific.com - @cooperpacifickitchens
#StevenCooper #CooperPacific #KitchenDesign #DesignMastery #LuxuryKitchens TimelessCraft DesignPodcast ArchitecturalInteriors BespokeDesign FunctionalArt DesignExcellence CreativeVision
Craft, Legacy & Innovation — A Conversation with Steven Cooper of Cooper Pacific
Some designers create kitchens. Steven Cooper creates experiences — spaces where artistry, precision, and daily ritual come together in perfect harmony. In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Design, host Cray Bauxmont-Flynn sits down with the visionary principal of Cooper Pacific Kitchens to explore nearly four decades of creative leadership, craftsmanship, and global influence.
As Cooper Pacific approaches its remarkable 40-year milestone, Steven reflects on a career shaped by heritage and evolution — from lessons learned alongside his builder father and grandfather to designing bespoke kitchens around the world, from Tokyo to Palm Beach’s iconic Tiffany’s building. His work stands at the intersection of architecture, functionality, and emotional storytelling, redefining what it means to design the heart of the home.
Throughout the conversation, Steven shares his philosophy of balancing form and function with intention. He speaks about listening deeply to clients, embracing the patina and authenticity of natural materials, and crafting kitchens that elevate everyday moments into meaningful rituals. Whether collaborating with the renowned British brand Cabinet, contributing to the Le Cornue global design council, or drawing inspiration from Los Angeles’ diverse architectural landscape, Steven’s perspective reflects a rare blend of artistry and technical mastery.
This episode is a celebration of design that endures — spaces built not just to be admired, but to be lived in. Steven reminds us that kitchens are more than rooms; they are stages for connection, creativity, and life’s most authentic experiences.
✨ Steven, thank you for sharing your extraordinary vision, your creative leadership, and your passion for craftsmanship with us. It was an honor to have you on the show.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design
🔗 Discover more: https://cooperpacific.com - @cooperpacifickitchens
#BeyondTheDesign #StevenCooper #CooperPacific #KitchenDesign #DesignLeadership LuxuryKitchens Craftsmanship ArchitecturalDesign
Vision. Talent. Leadership — A Powerful Conversation with Benjamin Johnston
There are designers who create beautiful spaces… and then there are creatives like Benjamin Johnston, whose work reshapes how we think about design itself. In this compelling episode of Beyond the Design, host Cray Bauxmont-Flynn welcomes a visionary whose immense talent, architectural precision, and fearless creativity continue to influence the global design conversation.
His signature philosophy of classic, curated, and cool has positioned him as a true creative leader, bringing thoughtful storytelling and elevated artistry into every project. From breaking traditional rules of scale to championing human-centered design, Benjamin’s voice represents a powerful evolution in how we experience interiors today.
A highlight of our discussion centers around his new book, Refined Interiors—a beautifully crafted reflection of his design journey and philosophy. More than a showcase of projects, the book captures his creative mindset, revealing how architecture, emotion, and narrative intertwine to create spaces that feel both timeless and deeply personal. It’s a testament to his thought leadership and a celebration of the discipline and imagination that define his work.
✨ Benjamin, thank you for sharing your extraordinary talent, your creative leadership, and your vision with us. It was an honor to have you on the show and celebrate this exciting new chapter with Refined Interiors.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design
🔗 Discover more + explore the book: https://www.benjamin-johnston.com - @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #BenjaminJohnston #RefinedInteriors #DesignLeadership #CreativeVisionary InteriorArchitecture LuxuryInteriors DesignThoughtLeader CreativeExcellence
Turning Vision into Legacy: Celebrating Benjamin Johnston’s Refined Interiors
A true creative voice doesn’t just design spaces—it shapes the way we see design. In this compelling episode of Beyond the Design, host @cray.bflynn welcomes architect and interior designer Benjamin Johnston for a powerful conversation centered around his highly anticipated new book, Refined Interiors.
More than a collection of beautiful rooms, Refined Interiors is a window into Benjamin’s creative philosophy—where architecture, storytelling, and emotional intelligence converge. Known for his signature blend of classic, curated, and cool, Benjamin shares how the book reflects years of thoughtful evolution, revealing the ideas, challenges, and inspirations that continue to define his work today.
Throughout the episode, Benjamin opens up about the intention behind the pages—why timeless design is rooted in perspective rather than trend, and how the process of documenting his projects became an act of reflection and creative growth. From dramatic scale shifts to deeply personal client collaborations, the book captures the essence of his artistry: spaces that feel layered, intelligent, and undeniably human.
This conversation explores how Refined Interiors represents more than a milestone—it’s a manifesto for designers who believe in pushing boundaries while honoring history and craft. Benjamin’s thought leadership shines through as he discusses mentorship, innovation, and the responsibility designers carry to create beauty with purpose.
✨ Benjamin, congratulations on this extraordinary achievement, and thank you for sharing your vision, your voice, and your creative brilliance with us. Your work continues to inspire the future of design.
📖 Discover Refined Interiors
🔗 https://www.benjamin-johnston.com - @benjaminjohnstondesign
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design.
#BenjaminJohnston #RefinedInteriors #DesignThoughtLeader #CreativeVisionary #luxuryi̇nteriors
A Dialogue in Design: Vision, Voice, and Creative Leadership with Benjamin Johnston
When immense talent meets fearless creative thinking, the conversation becomes more than design—it becomes a movement forward. In this powerful episode of Beyond the Design, host @cray.bflynn sits down with visionary architect and interior designer Benjamin Johnston, whose work continues to redefine what it means to be a true creative thought leader in today’s design landscape.
Benjamin brings a rare balance of architectural discipline and artistic intuition, shaping spaces that feel timeless yet entirely of the moment. Throughout this dynamic exchange, he shares how his philosophy—classic, curated, and cool—is less about aesthetic and more about perspective. His voice in the industry is one that challenges convention, encourages risk-taking, and places human connection at the center of every project.
Together, Cray and Benjamin explore the responsibility designers carry as storytellers and cultural interpreters. From breaking rules around scale and proportion to empowering the next generation of creatives, Benjamin’s insights reveal a mind constantly evolving—one that views design not as a static outcome, but as an ongoing conversation between history, innovation, and personal expression.
What makes this episode so compelling is not only Benjamin’s extraordinary talent, but his willingness to share the why behind his work—how he listens deeply to clients, leads with empathy, and uses creativity as a catalyst for positivity and growth within the industry.
✨ Benjamin, thank you for bringing your brilliance, generosity, and visionary leadership to the show. Your perspective continues to inspire how we think, create, and move design forward.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design.
🔗 Discover more: https://www.benjamin-johnston.com - @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #BenjaminJohnston #DesignThoughtLeader #CreativeLeadership #CrayBauxmontFlynn InteriorArchitecture DesignVisionary RefinedInteriors TimelessDesign DesignInnovation LuxuryInteriors CreativeDialogue HumanCenteredDesign DesignPodcast ElevatedConversations
Where “Cool” Meets Connection: Designing Homes That Truly Listen
Some homes look cool. Others feel cool—because they reflect the people who live inside them. In this episode of Beyond the Design, visionary architect and designer Benjamin Johnston shares how the real magic of great interiors isn’t about imposing a signature style, but about listening deeply and translating a client’s individuality into spaces that feel authentic, effortless, and entirely their own.
Benjamin describes his approach as part editor, part storyteller. The “cool factor” doesn’t come from trends or formulas—it comes from the clients themselves. Their collections, their memories, their personalities become the heartbeat of the design. His role is to refine, elevate, and curate those elements into something timeless while ensuring every client feels seen, heard, and respected throughout the process.
This conversation dives into the art of balancing bold creativity with genuine collaboration. Benjamin speaks about creating environments that feel layered and expressive, yet grounded in trust and communication. Oversized lighting, unexpected proportions, and theatrical moments may define the aesthetic—but the real foundation is the relationship he builds with clients, guiding them with confidence while honoring their voice.
At its core, Benjamin’s work reminds us that great design isn’t about ego—it’s about empathy. It’s about creating homes that hold space for life, personality, and evolution.
✨ Thank you, Benjamin, for sharing your incredible insight and for continuing to lead the industry with creativity, generosity, and vision.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design.
🔗 Explore more: https://www.benjamin-johnston.com - @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #BenjaminJohnston #DesignThoughtLeader #ClientCenteredDesign #ClassicCuratedCool InteriorDesignPodcast LuxuryInteriors DesignWithEmpathy CreativeCollaboration TimelessHomes DesignDialogue ModernArchitecture SpacesWithPersonality DesignLeadership
Classic, Curated, Cool: The Design Without Limits: The Visionary Mind of Benjamin Johnston
There are designers who follow the conversation—and then there are those who shape it. In this powerful episode of Beyond the Design, we sit down with Benjamin Johnston, a rare creative force whose immense talent, architectural intellect, and fearless imagination have positioned him as a true thought leader in today’s design world.
His philosophy—classic, curated, and cool—is more than a tagline; it’s a design manifesto. Classic in its reverence for proportion and history. Curated in its precision and storytelling. Cool because it refuses to be confined by expectation. Benjamin challenges scale, embraces theatricality, and designs with an editorial eye that elevates his clients’ individuality above fleeting trends.
As a creative leader, author of Refined Interiors, and founder of a globally recognized studio, Benjamin continues to push the industry forward—launching thoughtful product collaborations, mentoring the next generation of designers, and championing craftsmanship that honors both tradition and innovation. His work reminds us that great design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about vision, courage, and the willingness to think differently.
✨ Benjamin, thank you for sharing your extraordinary perspective, your creative brilliance, and your generosity of spirit with us. Your voice continues to inspire the future of design.
🎧 Listen now to the latest episode of Beyond the Design.
🔗 Discover more: https://www.benjamin-johnston.com @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #BenjaminJohnston #DesignThoughtLeader #CreativeVisionary #RefinedInteriors ArchitecturalMindset InteriorDesignMasters DesignLeadership TimelessInteriors
Refined, Rooted, Remarkable: The Vision of Benjamin Johnston
Step into a world where design is both deeply personal and profoundly architectural—where classic elegance meets curated storytelling and bold, theatrical choices are never off the table. In this episode of Beyond the Design, we’re joined by the incredibly talented architect and interior designer, Benjamin Johnston, whose creative path is as inspiring as the spaces he creates.
From the skyscrapers of Tokyo to the intimate nooks of family homes, Benjamin’s journey is a masterclass in scaling vision, refining intention, and celebrating individuality. After working on monumental projects alongside the legendary César Pelli, Benjamin made a bold shift to focus on human-scaled, emotionally resonant interiors—bringing his architectural mastery into every material choice, silhouette, and line.
He describes his signature style as classic, curated, and cool. “Classic” in its embrace of timeless principles—balance, proportion, cultural layering. “Curated” in its intentionality—every object tells a story, no space is filler. And “cool”? That comes from his clients. Benjamin sees himself as the editor, not the author—elevating the personal artifacts and stories that define his clients’ lives.
Benjamin’s humility, humor, and belief in design as a force for connection shine throughout this conversation. Whether he’s designing for a high-profile residence or mentoring his team, his mission remains steady: create beauty, spread positivity, and leave people better than you found them.
🎧 Tune in now to hear the full conversation.
🔗 Explore Benjamin’s work: benjamin-johnston.com @benjaminjohnstondesign
#BeyondTheDesign #benjaminjohnstondesign #InteriorArchitecture #RefinedInteriors #DesignWithPurpose TimelessDesign StoryDrivenSpaces ClassicCuratedCool ArchitecturalElegance DesignLeadership CreativeJourney DesignMentorship HumanCenteredDesign
