Friday Five with Caitlin Murray of Black Lacquer Design

Caitlin Murray is CEO and founder of Black Lacquer Design, a boutique interior design firm founded in 2014, that’s known for their elevated, color-soaked style and unpretentious, inviting glamour. Her distinctive use of color has earned her a reputation in the industry for bold, daring interiors that are equal parts whimsical liveliness and polished chic. As a born synesthete, Caitlin’s experience of hue is at the heart of all her work. Her eclectic personal style is a manifestation of modern sensibilities and an homage to distinctive design from decades past. Caitlin currently lives in Los Angeles in a 1920’s era Spanish-style abode with her husband, a large collection of eccentric vintage artwork, and their cocker spaniel, Color. Today she joins us for Friday Five!

1. Scrumptious Textiles
Few things feel more satisfying to me than gorgeous fabric, and no one does it better than Dedar (and Italians in general)! I’ve long been obsessed with their Splendido line – an incredibly soft and striking velvet that comes in an array of super saturated hues with the prettiest sheen.

2. Farrow & Ball Paint
In general, my design (and life) philosophy is soulful, whimsical, well-edited maximalism, which is why I love Farrow & Ball paint. Every shade is thoughtfully mixed, pays homage to the past in some way and is incredibly well-curated. Their colors feel velvety, deep, and timeless.

3. Quirky Vintage Brass Sculptures
I’m a sucker for anything vintage and brass, especially if it’s a little weird or playful. Joseph from Gallery Girasole is one of my go-to’s for sourcing these gems, from oversized animals to funky lamps in the shape of things like cacti.

4. Bold Lipstick
A beautiful lip color makes me feel polished even when I’m not wearing a stitch of other makeup (which is most days, honestly!). Bite is one of the best with their intense pigment that’s extra moisturizing and an impressive collection of options. Gazpacho is my fave. Plus, they’re organic and cruelty-free.

5. Artisan Bread
I’ve been really into fresh baked bread and croissants ever since I was an elementary school exchange student in the French countryside, so I feel like I married really well to score the owners of Green Truck Bakery as my in-laws. They built their massive wood-fired brick oven by hand inside an antique building in their picturesque Missouri town, and also make their delicious, seasonally rotating menu of goodness from scratch.

Work by Caitlin Murray:

Griffith Park Blvd.