Earthly Delights

A 1930s cottage is designed to embrace nature, heritage, and the occasional 30-person dinner party.

- By Christina Geyer

PERGOLA PATIO

Anchoring the main entertaining space at the home of designer Javier Burkle, an ever-changing mix of furnishings can work for cocktail hours or seated dinners. The stone wall is a reference to the haciendas of Mexico, Burkle’s home country. Paints: Greek Villa, Sherwin-Williams (walls); Onyx Black, Glidden (accents). Table: Ralph Lauren Home. Chairs: CB2. Rugs: Serena & Lily. Sofas: One Kings Lane, in Pindler Sunbrella.

LIVING ROOM

The place to be for cocktail hour. Chandelier, console, and sconce: Ralph Lauren Home. Paint: Chantilly Lace, Benjamin Moore. Sofas: Arteriors. Coffee table: vintage. Sketches: by Burkle’s grandmother.

DRESSED IN A RELAXED LINEN oxford and a pair of tangerine Venetian Stubbs & Wootton smoking slippers, Javier Burkle is the picture of springtime chic. The 33-year-old designer, who grew up in Mexico City and moved to Dallas with his family as a university student, dons this dapper combo for just about any task. “I was just doing some planting,” Burkle confesses, pouring Champagne into cut-crystal goblets under a tasseled umbrella in his backyard. The consummate host, he often sets one long table for 30-person dinners—even though the home he shares with his partner, real estate agent Mason McCleskey, clocks in at just 2,000 square feet.