The Atlanta-based architect and founder of D. Stanley Dixon Architect, Inc., was raised in the South by a mother who was passionate about—and adept at—interior design. Growing up, he was exposed to and developed a passion for graciously designed homes. Dixon’s edited approach to the classical elements of architecture provides an understated aesthetic that is based in history while incorporating influences of modern design.
Recently, Dixon was the featured speaker at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art’s annual Committee of 100 event. Planning an event in the fall in Kansas City is always a good idea and the cocktails and mocktails on the terrace overlooking the sculpture garden were nothing short of delightful. Just as the Shuttlecocks spread their feathers, the event’s guests dressed in a combination of taste and enthusiasm for the event, which added to the fun.
While it’s easy to settle into conversations with friends, this year’s speaker was the highlight. No one expects designers to be entertainers, though many are very entertaining indeed I’ve noticed some aren’t comfortable with presentations. This can lead to a description of the room that the audience can see on the slide. In contrast, Dixon relied on the visuals to speak for themselves and provided context by explaining the “why” of the room—what the homeowner wanted to accomplish, the challenges at hand, and how they were resolved—rather than ticking off objects.
His work includes gracious arches, stunning stairways, and classical moldings offset by whimsical interior windows that provide engaging light and views and jib doors that enable walls to be uninterrupted and still provide access to adjoining rooms. It was particularly delightful to see that there were no telltale signature marks. Each home seems completely personal to its owners. One of the designs that Dixon highlighted was a new beach home in Kiawah Island, South Carolina. He recounted that at the beginning of the process the owner told him, “I want my descendants coming here 100 years from now.” After seeing the images of the home, my guess is that will very much be the case.
Kansas City was fortunate to have him as our guest at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art Committee of 100. The C100 is a volunteer organization within the membership that is dedicated to planning and executing events that support the museum. C100 membership is included in museum membership at the Art Lover level or higher.