Natural State (2012)

Swoon-worthy fabrics and textures and gilt accents are hallmarks of a high rise residence designed by Michel Boyd, along with Bradley Hughes showroom.

Designers often call upon nature as inspiration—think poppy florals and beach-infused interiors. But rarely do they use moody and mysterious materials such as pyrite stone and malachite as the jumping-off points for a project. Those elements, coupled with varying shades of dark green, served as the muse for designer Michel Boyd’s residence, created in collaboration with Bradley Hughes, a showroom at the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center.

“I love to layer textures, patterns and colors,” says Boyd. “It’s essential in a luxury environment. If you think you’ve layered enough and need to stop, don’t stop!” Here, those layers include salon-style art walls, stunning chandeliers, Greek key motifs, a bevy of patterned and metallic wallpapers, even oft-overlooked organic touches. “Fresh flowers are always necessary,” the designer adds. “These natural elements keep the space comfortable.”

Even amidst a luxurious palette like this, Boyd says that people should keep a sense of humor about design as he did in the master bedroom by juxtaposing a whimsical wallpaper against an elegant, smoky blue upholstered headboard. “I want clients to see that it’s OK,” he says, “that they can feel comfortable with taking risks.”

Michel Boyd, SmithBoyd Interiors, (404) 402-4224; smithboydinteriors.com. Bradley Hughes (to the trade), ADAC, (404) 814-9595; Bradley-hughes.com (living room) WOOD SCULPTURE ON CONSOLE Century GOLD VASE Jonathan Adler FAUX FUR THROW Smith Grubbs & Assoc. LEOPARD PILLOW BD Jeffries TRAY ON DAYBED BD Jeffries GOLD EGG ON TRAY Baker FLOOR LAMP Baker CALLIGRAPHY BRUSH Armour & Co. (guest bedroom) BEDDING custom for SmithBoyd Interiors FAUX FUR THROW Smith Grubbs & Associates WALL SCULPTURE Jonathan Adler ANTIQUE WOODEN BUTTER CHURNERS IN TRAY Verde Home (master bedroom) LAMP ON CHEST Ainsworth-Noah SHAGREEN VASE custom for SmithBoyd Interiors BEDDING custom for SmithBoyd Interiors FAUX FUR THROW Smith Grubbs & Associates MIRROR J Nelson LAMP ON DESK Baker, Knapps & Tubbs