DESIGNER DIALOGUES - RAY BOOTH OF MCALPINE
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
In every home, architecture and interior design are in constant dialogue. One lays the foundation; the other layers meaning. Together, they create spaces that feel both intentional and harmonious.
If the structure of a home is not intentionally designed, furnishing and finishing it can become an overwhelming task. Conversely, without thoughtful interiors, even the most carefully built architecture can feel incomplete.
In most cases, these two elements of a home’s creation are handled by separate people, who must learn to speak the same design language to achieve a cohesive space that reflects their client’s vision.
Some designers, however, have mastered both. They consider the engineering of the structural elements alongside the purely aesthetic aspects, allowing their knowledge of each to inform and elevate the other.
In today’s Designer Dialogue, I am thrilled to introduce Ray Booth, an architecturally trained designer and partner at the renowned McALPINE firm. Based in Nashville and New York City, he uses his keen eye for design to create sophisticated, layered homes that serve as sanctuaries for clients across the country.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR DESIGN STYLE, AND HOW HAS IT EVOLVED SINCE YOU FIRST BEGAN INTERIOR DESIGN?
We like to think that each project has its own flavor and sense of style, as each is a reflection of the clients it is crafted for. But outside of that, we do strive for each project to evoke a “feeling” as much as it reflects any style. With that said, we strive to make those spaces layered, timeless, and serene.
IS THERE A DESIGN RULE YOU LOVE TO BREAK?
Any of them, if it brings some personality to a project! I do think it is essential for us as designers to set those rules so that we know when the right time is for that break.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE YOUR LATEST BOOK, THE EXPRESSIVE HOME: ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIORS, AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE READERS TAKE AWAY FROM IT?
The Expressive Home represents my own evolution into practicing more architecture in addition to our interiors. I hope that readers can see the collaboration of our architects and designers and how, when working with all those “tools” in our toolbox, we can create something especially appropriate and meaningful for them.
CAN YOU SHARE A RECENT PROJECT YOU LOVED WORKING ON, AND WHAT MADE IT ESPECIALLY MEANINGFUL?
There is a client with whom I have worked on five projects. It is a true collaboration as she brings as much to the table as we do. Throughout our time together, we have worked on renovations and new builds and have recently finished her last home in Southampton, which she entrusted us to design and build with her after the passing of her dear husband. It is deeply meaningful to have that history with someone and to be able to consider them a friend after it all.
WHEN SOMEONE FEEL STUCK ON A HOME DESIGN PROJECT, AND WHAT IS THE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE THEM?
Empty everything out of your head as to what you think it might be… and look for that ONE piece that feels right. From that one piece, many questions can be answered about what move should be next.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ROOM IN A HOME TO DESIGN?
I will always love to design a main living room. It always offers the most personality opportunities in a home. There is a diversity of furnishings, comfortable and stylish sofas and upholstery, along with smaller chairs, tables, and consoles that give the emotional “feel” to a space.
IF YOU WEREN’T A DESIGNER, WHAT OTHER PATH COULD YOU IMAGINE YOURSELF PURSUING?
I always think that being a gardener is a noble and rewarding job to do. Hands in the dirt and a sense of accomplishment at the end of each day…sounds amazing…
WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE PIECE OF DESIGN ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED, AND HOW HAS IT SHAPED YOUR WORK?
It would have to be that to have good interior designed spaces, we have to have great architecture…One is needed to complement the other.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY FOR PEOPLE TO STAY CONNECTED WITH YOU AND FOLLOW ALONG WITH YOUR LATEST PROJECTS?
Instagram @rayboothdesign and @mcalpinehouse, also websites at www.rayboothdesign.com and www.mcalpinehouse.com
Thank you so much to Ray Booth for taking the time to share his insights with us. We hope you found his thoughts inspiring and helpful in your pursuit to design a life you love. We know we did!
xx,
Brooke
