I was in the gay bar business until I left Connecticut in 1984. When we moved to Sarasota, I made a vow to get into interior design and got a job at The Wallpaper Store. It seemed like every wealthy woman in Sarasota bought wallpaper there — and then it all just happened. I was in the right place, with the right people, at the right time. Plus, I PAID attention to what was presented to me and ran with it.
What I love most about what I do is how I am able to HELP our designers by giving them advice and guidance with their careers so that they can be all the want to be (and more). I PUSH them to realize the potential they may not see in themselves. More than anything else, I am a teacher, and LOVE that role. Being an interior designer on top of that is just a bonus!
about mark
Bristol, Connecticut. I moved to Sarasota in 1984.
An Architect. I was drawing house plans at 13 years old.
But, under the right circumstances, I can sing like Sinatra. 😉
MORALS, VALUES, along with some human decency.
Washing and doing the dishes!
Coffee with mark
Step into the surprising world of Mark Dalton, where his thought-provoking discussions, unexpected tangents, and enlightening interviews offer a safe space where every topic finds its place.
Mark’s opinions are his alone and do not necessarily represent the views of the firm, the designers, or his guests.
Season 1
Episode 1: “Design As An Afterthought”
Mark Dalton introduces Wilbur Cross, the Coffee With Mark series, and discusses why you should work with a professional interior designer from start to finish.
Episode 2: “I Wish I Had Someone To Talk To…”
Mark wades into the “Don’t Say Gay” topic and, as a gay man who came out in the 70s, gives his personal experiences and opinions on the subject.
Episode 3: “Do Your Research”
Mark discusses why you need to do your homework when hiring an interior designer, and why you should be ‘present’ so you get the outcome you were expecting (and deserve).
Episode 4: “Goldfinger”
Mark shares the story about the golden elephant in the room, and how the middle finger became one of his endearing and signature gestures.
Episode 695: “Let’s Nip It In The Bud”
Jeremy nearly falls through a chair, Mark discusses the first time he was called a “sissy,” and how he knew he couldn’t talk to his parents about being gay.
Episode 6: “Infrastructure & Traffic”
Mark discusses his personal take on affordable housing in Sarasota, and the location in downtown that he thinks would be ideal for such a development.
Episode 7: “Here You Go, Mark”
Mark shares the amazing story on how he got started as an interior designer.
Episode 4,458: “Let’s Take A Field Trip”
Mark is joined by Robin Azevedo at Robb & Stucky to discuss the showroom, interior design, and a stand-up comedian.
Episode 10: “Motivational Mark”
Mark discusses why you should be prepared to fail, and why you should always be paying attention.
Episode 11: “Clients, Be Present”
Mark talks candidly about a project that when awry, and how it could have possibly been avoided.
Episode 12: “Even I Need An Interior Designer”
Mark shows what his life is like as his kitchen is being renovated, and why “an interior designer needs an interior designer.”
What's Next?
Do you have a topic you’d like to bring to Mark’s attention, or would you like to appear with him on our next filming?
Contact us and let our team know.