The beautiful centerpiece, the brilliant mirrored ceiling and the dazzling chandelier that is sure to be a conversation piece—these are just some of the small details that went into creating this room for the 1997 OKC Symphony Show House (the year when the event had its highest attendance). Who would’ve known that 27 years later, this dining room would be the blueprint for another remarkable project? With the showcase being re-created in 2024, award-winning Keven Calonkey Carl of Mister Robert Furniture decided to take on this masterpiece of a room once again and put a modern spin on it.
The room redesign of 2024—“Fine Hollywood Dining Room”—was awarded “Best Overall Design.” The new dining room keeps the traditional element of the home, while letting it find its way into a new era. It is no surprise that this room caught a lot of attention, both in 1997 and in 2024.
Since 1973, the Symphony Show House has showcased the best in local design while supporting the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and music education in the community.
We sat down with Carl to get her take on the remarkable feat and how design trends are evolving.
Did you jump at the chance to design this room again?
Absolutely! We were ecstatic to possibly get this opportunity 27 years later.
How did it feel finding out you would get to?
It was so exciting to learn that Mister Robert Fine Furniture would once again be designing the Dolese/Chambers-Toal Mansion. It was going to be a perfect opportunity to show how classic design can be elevated to a modern era with the use of timeless furniture and intriguing art and accessories.
What ways have design trends changed in the last 27 years?
Deep, rich jewel tones were so popular in 1997 when Mister Robert last did the dining room in the mansion. Styles were traditional, elegantly carved, with bullion trim and brushed fringe. Things have “lightened up”. We chose to remove the heavy drapes of the ’90s and not replace them—it was more visually interesting to see the beautiful windows and let in as much natural light as possible.
How have they stayed the same?
Jewel tones are making a comeback; however, they are more muted now. Classic, well-appointed pieces never got out of style. Show-stopping chandeliers were popular 27 years ago, and their popularity keeps growing. This dining room chandelier is every bit as magnificent 27 years later.
Are there any trends you miss from the ’90s?
There are several trends from the ’90s which I have missed, but they are actually making a comeback now. These are velvet and crushed velvet fabrics, and fringe, rope cording and bullion trim. Traditional styling in furniture, fabrics, rugs and wallpaper are more of these re-emerging trends from the ’90s.
What are upcoming trends you think we will be seeing in the next few years?
We will continue to see warm shades of tans and browns replace the cold grays and whites. Color will continue to get bolder and brighter—reds, blues and greens will grow in popularity, along with patterned rugs. Traditional and American-made furniture will continue to be highly sought after by consumers who desire classic styles made to quality standards. However, the trend I think we will see expand the most will be the realization by consumers that they should not ignore their personal tastes in selecting products for their homes. They should make their home reflect their own story.
