A Cut Above

Written by Emily Lyons Photography by Stacy Zarin-Goldberg

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Meet Jose Solis, left, and Paul Sherrill of Solis Betancourt, one of the most highly regarded local design firms. Their work regularly garners national attention and their office is on Connecticut Avenue in Washington, DC. Here’s a look into their influences and inspirations.

Q: What time, place, or concept most inspires your interior designs?

A: Paul Sherrill: I love the simplicity of both colonial and monastic architecture – simplicity with a sense of history.

What questions do you ask potential clients before undertaking a project?

PS: Are they interested in creating something great? If the answer is yes, the rest is just details.

How would you describe your personal style?

PS: Practical but passionate.

What are your strongest professional influences?

Jose Solis: Magazines and fashion.

What’s the most challenging project you’ve tackled?

PS: Working with unrealistic deadlines where quality had to be sacrificed. I have no interest in that type of work anymore.

Name your favorite:

- Recent inexpensive purchase for the home:

PS: Fresh flowers. They are a necessity and they add life and beauty to even the best-designed spaces.

- Recent high-end purchase for the home:

PS: A 16th century Flemish tapestry.

- Room in the house:

PS: I love my bedroom. I could be happy living in that single room. It provides me with a sense of comfort and safety.

- Way to unwind at home after a long day:

PS: With friends, especially those unrelated to design. Otherwise, I just get revved up about projects and possibilities.

- Design book:

JS: Any book by Wim Pauwels, especially Timeless Kitchens and Exceptional Gardens.

- New design item for the home:

PS: My wireless Sonos Stereo System from All Around Technology – so great and no destructive pre-wiring required.

- Great housewarming gift:

JS: Buccellati Silver Leaves.  

As simply as possible, what is your design philosophy?

PS: We are all constantly inspired by global ideas. Design must be contextually appropriate in order to have a sense of authenticity and therefore longevity.