This week we caught up with acclaimed interior designer Barclay Butera to discuss the collaborative process behind his new EMBARK lighting collection with Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting. Butera shares his favorite aspects of the design process, the distinct moods and styles incorporated into the collection, and his vision for how the luxurious lighting pieces will elevate high-end residential and hospitality spaces.

DNN: Congratulations on your new EMBARK collection! First, can you tell me about what the collaborative process was like with Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting? And give us the rose and the thorn: What was your favorite and least favorite (or most challenging) aspect of designing this lighting collection? 

BB: This was one of the most collaborative processes I have ever experienced with a licensed partner. From day one, the creative team ad FAHL has fully supported my vision and has gone above and beyond to include me in all aspects of the design process. The most thrilling part for me was going to the factory, blowing glass, and seeing how it all works and comes together. So sorry, all roses, no thorns! Together we never missed a beat.

DNN: How do you see EMBARK fitting into your overall Barclay Butera Couture brand? How does EMBARK reflect your signature style? 

BB: EMBARK is my first collection for the Barclay Butera Couture brand and boy did we set the bar high. We have had such unbelievable success with all 15 licensed categories for the better/best market. I wanted Couture to be cater to the best of the best market. EMBARK has an organic, authentic, bespoke feel and I am hoping to capture this ideal for other categories moving forward. This collection is unlike anything else you have ever seen in the industry. Needless to say I am excited we are coming out swinging!

DNN: What sets EMBARK apart from other luxury lighting collections in the market? And, conversely, how does it speak to what clients/consumers are demanding in their residential lighting? 

BB: Lighting is a big industry, with so many phenomenal choices out there, you must really be creative to set yourself apart. I think they fact that these pieces are 100% made in America gives us a quality control and product design capabilities you can’t get overseas. The hand-blown glass allows us to design fluid lines like something from the ocean and nature. You can’t get that with machine made product. My high-end clientele will flip over these pieces, the chandeliers are real statement makers, and the sconces are truly fine jewelry for the home.

DNN: Can you tell us more about the three distinct moods you’ve incorporated into the collection – contemporary white, moody amber, and maritime blue?

BB: Of course! When the collection first started taking shape, we realized that color would play a huge role in the mood of each design. I basically want to provide options for clients with the styles and moods they are seeking out these days. Since I do a big business with contemporary and transitional homes, mountain get-aways and coastal properties I knew these three color-ways would provide options for everyone.

DNN: What types of spaces are you excited to see EMBARK pieces incorporated into? Is there a dream project of yours the lighting would be perfect for? 

BB: I will be ecstatic when the magnificent chandeliers are featured in the lobby entrances of elite hotels; I may be the first to design this! They are jaw dropping and provide the perfect “wow-factor”. I can promise they will find their way into the spectacular dining rooms I create as well. And, I love that the sconces are the perfect accent piece; they will be so instrumental in adding glamour and sophistication to intimate spaces.

DNN: Similarly, do you have a favorite piece from the EMBARK collection? If so, why does it stand out to you? 

BB: Wait until you see the spectacular gold leaf hanging chandelier with floating hand-blown amber wave glass…. Pure glamour, that is one by far my favorite.

DNN: What advice would you give to an interior designer interested in designing a lighting collection? 

BB: Designers who want to license are a dime a dozen out there, and if you want a company to sign you, you’d better have a real point of view and true design experience, not just ask to have a line with your name on it and collect a check. People forget it took me years to sign my first deal. 

Once the industry saw the success of that collaboration, we were off to the races. There are too many people out there who do not understand it is all about ROI for these manufacturers’, so they always must see if/where your potential is for distribution and sales. Finally, my most successful collections are the ones where my partners involve me heavily in the design process, I am blessed to work with the best in the business!

DNN: Lastly, what is next for Barclay Butera? And how can we keep up with you?  

BB: Well good luck keeping up with me, just ask my staff! I have to say, since I have already designed a bespoke Rolls-Royce, looks like hopefully next up is a luxury Yacht and a Gulfstream…time will tell!