Designer Spotlight: Brian Paquette

Designer Spotlight: Brian Paquette Interiors

This month we are pleased to celebrate a successful designer, entrepreneur and friend of Newport Lamp & Shade: Brian Paquette (who also happens to be from Newport, Rhode Island!).  Brian Paquette Interiors is a Seattle-based, full-service design studio known for its evocative, art-forward approach to home interiors. Read more about Brian Paquette Interiors below, visit his website and follow along on instagram for even more inspiration. 

A Singular Vision Rooted in Art

Brian's background in painting and conceptual art informs every project his firm undertakes. Rather than following fleeting trends, Brian's interiors are deeply personal, blending function and comfort with a refined sense of artistry. Each space is thoughtfully layered with texture, color, and light, resulting in spaces that are as livable as they are beautiful.

Design by Brian Paquette Interiors
Haris Kenjar Photography

Design Philosophy: Memories, Light, and Texture

Brian’s design process centers on understanding his clients’ stories and aspirations. He believes a home should be a living extension of its inhabitants—a place where memories are kept alive through fabric, surface texture, and, crucially, the play of light. In his book, At Home: Evocative and Art-Forward Interiors, Brian explores how lighting, furniture placement, and tactile materials work together to create spaces that anchor people to their past while providing comfort for the future.

“Function and comfort, first and always.”
— Brian Paquette, At Home: Evocative and Art-Forward Interiors

Design by Brian Paquette Interiors
Haris Kenjar Photography

Lighting: The Heart of Every Room

Lighting is a cornerstone of Brian's interiors. Whether it’s a statement pendant, a sculptural table lamp, or the subtle glow of layered sconces, Brian uses lighting to highlight architectural features, create mood, and enhance the textures that define his spaces. His approach resonates with our philosophy at Newport Lamp & Shade Company: the right lamp or shade can transform a room, bringing depth, warmth, and character.

Collection for Lawson Fenning

Brian's furniture collection for Lawson-Fenning also reflects his refined, artful approach by blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Featuring pieces like the sculptural Justin Bed, channel-tufted Shoreland Chair, and the solid wood Rainier Dining Table, the collection emphasizes comfort, versatility, and timeless style. With a strong focus on customization, clients can choose from a wide range of fabrics, leathers, and wood finishes to create pieces that suit their unique interiors. Crafted with attention to detail and quality, Paquette’s designs for Lawson-Fenning offer a cohesive, livable collection that complements both modern and classic spaces.

Design by Brian Paquette Interiors
Miranda Estes Photography

Engaging the Design Community

Brian is also an active voice in the design community, frequently participating as a panelist at major industry events. He has shared his perspective alongside other leading designers at forums like the High Point Market Keynote Series, where conversations focus on redefining creative boundaries and building momentum in the field. Through these panels, Brian offers insight into his own path -emphasizing the importance of authenticity, thoughtful business practices, and the evolving role of designers today. His willingness to engage in open dialogue reflects his commitment to both the craft and the broader conversation shaping the future of interior design.


Please keep up with Brian and his work on instagram and join me in exploring his impressive portfolio!