John Phifer Marrs is a renowned interior designer whose expertise lies in creating exquisite, curated interiors for collectors. His acclaimed book, "Interiors for Collectors," was released in September 2021 by Gibbs – Smith.

Marrs is known for his funny and irreverent style, reminiscent of "Saturday Night Live." He busies himself by entertaining A-list clients and crafting magical interiors across Texas, the United States, Europe, and Central America.

His impressive portfolio includes major private residences, vacation homes, executive offices, and even the official residence of a United States Ambassador.

His work has been featured in esteemed publications like "Texas Home and Living," "Better Homes and Gardens," "Southern Accents," "Traditional Home," and the iconic "Architectural Digest."

We are thrilled to have John as this week’s guest curator for our Complementary. Guest Curations series. His keen eye for design and passion for collecting make him the perfect candidate for curating unique items for your enjoyment and inspiration.

John's Eclectic Chic Selection

1. Vintage Persian Hamadan Type Runner - 10' 4" X 4' 2"

This beautiful vintage rug is perfect in a hallway, under stools at a bar, or a star in a galley kitchen. Beauty should be everywhere..

2. Kindel Winterthur Reproduction Mahogany Chest of Drawers

Kindel makes the best reproduction furniture. This handsome chest would work well in an entrance hall, living room, dining room or bedroom.

3. Collection of Three Small Delft Table Top Containers

When it comes to collecting, more is truly more!

4. Baker Furniture Octagonal Mahogany Table

A table by Baker furniture is always a lucky find. Put it in the center of your entrance hall to welcome guests with flowers. It would also fit a bay window in your dining room perfectly. Use it to serve dessert and coffee after dinner.

5. Fine Vintage Chinoiserie Decorated Tole Tray on Stand

Nothing is more delightful than a Chinoiserie tray cocktail table. And every room needs a little black accent. Here you've got both.

6. Decorative Carved Wood Openwork Screen on Stand

This good looking screen on stand would look great displayed as art on any large enough table top. It would be a pretty firescreen during warmer months when the fireplace is not in use.

7. Group of Three Delft Table Top Items

One's good. Two is better. Three is a collection! Blue and white Delft is a timeless classic.

8. Antique Pine Farmhouse Table

This farmhouse dining table has a lovely lived-in finish. I would use it on my screened porch. Perfect for morning coffee, to serve a buffet lunch, or for Sunday night dinner with the family.

9. Lloyd Flanders All Weather Wicker Lounge Chairs, Set of 4 with Seat Cushions

These 4 Lloyd Flanders all weather chairs would be perfect on your porch pulled up to your farmhouse table. Mix in an assortment of odd chairs for more guests.

10. Quality 19th C Style Carved and Gilt Over-the-Mantel Mirror by Smith and Watson

Smith and Watson make good looking mirrors. I could see this Federal style mirror over a chimney-piece or a sideboard in your dining room.

Q&A with John

How did you become interested in estate sales and online auctions?

I'm a lifelong collector … I love spending the weekends browsing auctions near me and attending estate sales.

How do you describe your design style or aesthetic?

I love using antiques and one of a kind, unique objects, to give my rooms a soul and a sense of the person who lives there.

What are some things you always find yourself bidding upon in online auctions?

Chinese plates and mudmen, Tole trays, watch holders, antique boxes, and old silver.

What's your absolute favorite item ever purchased at an estate sale or online auction?

My brown chinoiserie partner’s desk for my office … which I sit at every day and enjoy.

What's your favorite Black Rock Galleries purchase?

A set of blue and white aesthetic style transferware plates.

Any tips or advice for online auction or estate sale newbies?

Register in advance and diligently preview the auction items.