Who she is: Peggy Levinson, D Home editor-at-large and founder of her eponymous design consulting firm.
Why she’s a tastemaker: There are too many reasons to count. From the countless stories she’s penned for our magazine to her timeless taste in décor—Peggy knows what’s happening in the Dallas design world.
1. Dallas Showrooms. I love to wander through some of our outstanding multi line showrooms like Scott+Cooner, George Cameron Nash, Culp, Sutherland, and Allan Knight. They represent some of the best and brightest new design talents on the horizon. Want to see what’s going to be in large retail stores next year? It’s probably in a showroom now.
2. Books, books, and more books. Bring ‘em on. Art books, design books, (and magazines), cook books, travel books, picture books of any kind, novels, and biographies. This “Living in Style Paris” book is where I want to be someday!
3. Turkish Iznik pottery. The shimmery blues and greens remind me of the ethereal Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
4. YSL Touche Éclat. I don’t go anywhere without it, these days the girl needs some help! I’m not sure it really works magic, but if I feel it does—it does.
5. Santa Maria Novella Potpourri at LAFCO. It’s such an exotic mix of herbal and woodsy, but still subtle and welcoming. Guests will come in my house and take a deep breath and smile.
6. Jo Malone colognes. They are fresh and lively, and the combination of names is so evocative. Like Earl Grey and Cucumber, Blue Agave and Cacao, or Oud and Bergamot.
7. The DMA’s permanent collection. The special exhibitions are always phenomenal, but wandering through the permanent collections sometimes gets you lost, but always produces welcome surprises.
8. The Dallas Institute. Possibly the most civilized and enlightening place in Dallas. Smart book clubs are led by Dr. Larry Allums, and Salon Evenings are discussions where people espouse different opinions and others actually listen! I always feel a little smarter, a little more informed, and certainly more inspired when I leave.
9. Thanksgiving. It’s usually the most perfect weather of the year, when fall trees are still in full color. My ever growing family gathers, but without the stress of Christmas shopping. I fix the same tired old recipes, so that’s easy. Then we have a big Thankful for Friends party Saturday night after.
10. Trinity River Project. This is the most transformative project in recent Dallas history. For one thing, I can’t wait to ride my bike from White Rock to the Audubon Center all on one trail.
