--- title: "Carl Williamson Designs, LLC — Interior Designers & Decorators | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/carl-williamson-designs-llc-pfvwus-pf~2015151063 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~2015151063.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Carl Williamson Designs, LLC" category: ["Interior Designers & Decorators"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/43f31ea106df4876_0188-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Potomac, Maryland 20854, United States" latitude: 39.0388 longitude: -77.1922 phone: "(301) 969-2972" website: https://carlwilliamsondesigns.com rating: 4.6 review_count: 10 years_in_business: 25 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 61 last_updated: 2026-09-23 --- # Carl Williamson Designs, LLC > Nationally Acclaimed Interior Designer \| 2x Best of Houzz Original Houzz profile: [Carl Williamson Designs, LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/carl-williamson-designs-llc-pfvwus-pf~2015151063) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Interior Designers & Decorators - **Location:** Potomac, MD - **Serves:** Germantown, Gaithersburg, Bethesda, North Bethesda, Potomac, Montgomery Village, North Potomac, Chevy Chase, Leisure World, North Kensington, South Kensington, Four Corners, Darnestown, Friendship Village, Centreville, Kensington, Chevy Chase Village, Derwood, Chevy Chase View, Chevy Chase Section Five, North Chevy Chase, Vienna, Aldie, Arcola, Arlington, Ashburn, Belmont, Broadlands, Chantilly, Countryside, DC (Washington), Dranesville, Dulles, Dulles Town Center, Fairfax, Falls Church, Floris, Great Falls, Greenbriar, Herndon, Leesburg, Lowes Island, Mclean, Middleburg, VA, Oak Grove, Reston, San Francisco to Washington DC, Sterling, Tysons Corner, Washington - **Houzz rating:** 4.6 out of 5 (10 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2017–2025), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Recommended on Houzz - 500 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Online consultation - 25 years in business ### Business highlights - Online consultation - Best of Houzz winner - 25 years in business A nationally acclaimed design veteran with over two decades of experience in residential and commercial interior design, Carl creates an environment which is centered around the lifestyle, taste and experience of the client. Carl Williamson’s career in the luxury furniture and interior design industry began two decades ago when he joined a Fine Furnishings & Interior Design firm as Principal Designer & Buyer. His easy, classic style with a modern sensibility garnered him a loyal client following and industry accolades. With a fiercely discerning eye, Carl curates and edits a design rather than merely “decorating” a space. His understanding of color, texture, style, and the importance of juxtaposing the classic form with the linear to avoid sameness sets him apart. Most importantly...Carl says....” design is truly all about the client, their taste, lifestyle and the architecture of their home. The finished project must have the clients fingerprint and not my own.” Carl explains that his loyal following is based on his client first ethic, exceeding expectations, and delivering an exemplary, cohesive collection of outstanding rooms that are livebale, ever-engaging and ever-lasting. Offering the finest manufactures: Hickory Chair, Stickley, Baker, Century, American Leather, Stressless, Thayer Coggin, to name a few.....Custom Draperies, blinds, shutters, shades, bedding, re-upholstery services and more. Carl Williamson Designs, LLC Potomac, MD 20854 Cwilliamson@carlwilliamsondesigns Instagram \| Facebook \| HouzzPro \| CarlWilliamsonDesigns.com ### Services Provided - Interior Design - Kitchen Design - Bathroom Design - Living Room Design - Space Planning - Furniture Selection - Dining Room Design - Home Office Design & Construction - Entry Design - Art Selection - Universal Design - Home Theater Design - Sustainable Design ### Areas Served - Germantown - Gaithersburg - Bethesda - North Bethesda - Potomac - Montgomery Village - North Potomac - Chevy Chase - Leisure World - North Kensington - South Kensington - Four Corners - Darnestown - Friendship Village - Centreville - Kensington - Chevy Chase Village - Derwood - Chevy Chase View - Chevy Chase Section Five - North Chevy Chase - Vienna - Aldie - Arcola - Arlington - Ashburn - Belmont - Broadlands - Chantilly - Countryside - DC (Washington) - Dranesville - Dulles - Dulles Town Center - Fairfax - Falls Church - Floris - Great Falls - Greenbriar - Herndon - Leesburg - Lowes Island - Mclean - Middleburg, VA - Oak Grove - Reston - San Francisco to Washington DC - Sterling - Tysons Corner - Washington ### Typical Job Cost $50,000 - 5 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Carl Williamson Designs, LLC | | Address | Potomac, Maryland 20854, United States | | Phone | (301) 969-2972 | | Website | https://carlwilliamsondesigns.com | | Years in business | 25 | | Followers on Houzz | 61 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/sheffieldfurnitureandinteriors - Blog — Cwilliamson60.houzz.com ## Offers Request A Complimentary Consultation ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Carl Williamson Designs, LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/carl-williamson-designs-llc-pfvwus-pf~2015151063) - **Website:** https://carlwilliamsondesigns.com - **Phone:** (301) 969-2972 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Master of Arts Degree (MA) in Interior Design - Best of Houzz Customer Service 2020 - Best of Houzz Customer Service 2019 - Best of Houzz Customer Service 2018 - Best of Houzz Customer Service 2017 - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2017–2025), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5 — 10 reviews** ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Ella Gold, Feb. 2019** > My husband and I are transplants to Northern Virginia having relocated from Houston, Texas. We had interviewed a number of Interior Designers and selected to work with Carl Williamson. We appreciated how well Carl listened and the questions he asked were thoughtful so as to gain a complete understanding of our needs. Carl seamlessly integrated our existing furnishings, artwork, lighting and accessories from our previous home and layered in new pieces of upholstery, rugs, window treatments and furniture. Carl is so talented, well organized and professional. He made the process enjoyable. We couldn't be happier with the result! ### All 10 reviews **★★★★★ — Catherine Rhinehart, March 2024** > When education, career and marriage drew me to Southern California from the bucolic, rolling landscape of Middleburg, Virginia 28 years ago, I somehow new that one day I would return. > > I met Carl Williamson 23 years ago when we engaged his services for our cliff side home in Malibu, California. He created a sun drenched California dream interior all those years ago that we still enjoy today. > > Fast forward to 2022 when the opportunity to purchase my childhood home in Middleburg, VA presented itself. I did not hesitate to call Carl. We embarked on a nearly two year journey together. Carl worked hand in hand with our Architect and Building Contractor as the home needed extensive updating. Carl insured that our overall design vision was translated perfectly by selecting all finishes associated with the renovation. > > Carl then developed breathtaking interior spaces that unfolded to honor the homes historic and storied past while adding modern elements which made our home comfortable, collected and current. Thank you Carl for writing a new chapter for this nostalgic, heirloom property. Your vision, talent, professionalism and thoughtfulness will remain with us for many, many, years to come. My husband and I will build happy memories with our daughters in this very personal vacation home you created just for us. **★ — Dixie arthur, Dec. 2023** > I've never been so disappointed. From start to finish the custom cabinetry project for three areas of my new home was a nightmare. Mr. Williamson made numerous misrepresentations including the qualifications of the carpenter, where the components would be constructed and painted, and the materials to be used. Mr. Williamson made a two foot measurement error in the primary bedroom closet. In spite of representations there were numerous meetings between Mr. Williamson and the carpenter, the error was not caught until the night before the installation. The quality of the finish work is amateurish. I had to demand an apology. I've lived with this for about 26 months, hoping I will stop beating myself up for engaging this man. I'm in my 70's, retired, and do not have the time or money to have this cabinetry ripped out and redone. It's ruined my home as far as I am concerned. **★★★★★ — Maximilian & Audrey Henderson, March 2021** > In 2016 my wife and I were in the process of having a townhouse built in the Urbana Community of Frederick, Maryland. Our existing furniture was a mixture of family hand-me-downs and inexpensive pieces purchased along the way out of necessity. In our new home, we envisioned a sophisticated, urban vibe where we could entertain friends and family. We had admired Carl Williamson's work for sometime. We follow him on Instagram, Facebook and contacted him directly via Houzz. > From our initial discussions, it felt as if he understood what we were trying to accomplish. We did not have the budget to do everything at once. Carl suggested coming up with an over all design for our townhouse and then implementing the design in phases as funds became available. > Carl took the time to educate us on upholstery construction, window treatments, handmade rugs and gave us an overview of what various manufacturers had to offer. He suggested that we purchase the best quality we could afford that would withstand everyday use and last for years to come. > The phases took nearly 5 years to complete. We began with necessities-great room, master bedroom and counter stools for the kitchen. Carl's guidance was strategic, thoughtful and he showed a lot of professional patience. The final phase of draperies, pillows, and accessories were recently installed. The final result is more amazing than we could have even imagined. We could not be happier! > It's interesting to look back at all of the floorplans and design boards and be living in the finished product. We highly recommend Carl Williamson. He is talented, professional, knowledgeable and organized. We will be Carl's clients for life. **★★★★★ — HU-632365834, Nov. 2018** > Our relationship with Carl Williamson began more than 20 years ago when we purchased a vacation home that was badly in need of “rethinking”. The project was a wonderful collaboration of viewpoints which Carl processed into a timeless, comfortable and welcoming interior that quickly became our “happy place.” > When we purchased a new primary residence in Virginia, we turned to Carl for his input. 20 years did not dampen his spirit of fun and love for his craft. At the first walkthrough Carl easily expressed a vision of what the house needed to fit our busy family. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome! Carl paid homage to our homes traditional roots but in a way that was totally modern. Spaces were opened providing a much needed view-shed in the family areas. Upholstery, furniture, lighting, rugs and window coverings are clean, crisp and edited. Statement pieces of art are placed judiciously for high impact. Stunning, relatable, and comfortable. **★★★★★ — Hilary Cleveland, Sept. 2016** > It had become somewhat of a running joke how our new beach house remained basically empty for 11 months. While I could have easily filled the spaces with furniture, we wanted something very special. > > We saw a design project that Carl Williamson had just completed for good friends one evening and telephoned him first thing in the morning. Since then, my husband and I have had the pleasure of working with Carl on three homes through the last 15 years-all different- the beach house, a city apartment in the heart of Chicago and an antique farm house in Connecticut. We appreciated that Carl took into consideration the architecture, location and how we would live and entertain in each home. He even designed the gardens at the beach house to compliment the interior! He is talented, personable, professional and highly organized. A delight to work with. Many thanks Carl! **★★★★★ — Alexandra Hawley, July 2016** > We are so grateful to Carl for the wonderful job he did designing our beach house. Carl is fluent in many styles and perfectly captured the atmosphere we wanted to create - simple, elegant and warm. Everyone who visits comments on the beautiful feeling of joy and warmth in our home. It is not always easy for me to visualize a complete piece of furniture or a window treatment from a small sample and Carl was so patient and understanding in bringing me larger samples of fabric and photos to make the process very comfortable for me. He was always prompt with deadlines and very clear on the front end about costs. His expertise, creativity, and enthusiasm made the whole project delightful. We continue to enjoy his exceptionally fine work. **★★★★★ — jarchun, July 2016** > My wife and I purchased a traditional home in Potomac, MD. Having moved from a modern Loft space in DC, we were at a loss as to how to outfit the interior of our new home. We met Carl and after a short initial consultation he understood exactly what we were trying to achieve. The design he presented to us respected the architecture of our new home but had a modernity that matched our tastes and personality perfectly. The finished product is stunning and timeless. Carl was a consummate professional-accessible, easy to work with-from beginning to end! Thank you Carl for creating a home for us that we will enjoy for many, many years to come. **★★★★★ — gg7jb35kozaker99uk, July 2016** > I have had the pleasure of working with Carl Williamson for the past 6 months in selecting various pieces of furniture which needed replacing after my return to the United States. Although I had an idea of what I wanted, Mr. Williamson's assistance, professionalism and creative enthusiasm made the entire process a great deal of fun rather than being tedious. He went the extra mile in one instance where there was a difficult situation and worked with the manufacturer on my behalf which I truly appreciated. I sincerely regret not having another couple of rooms that I could work on with him! **★★★★★ — HU-710873, July 2016** > During a transition time between full time work and future retirement, Carl assisted me in selecting the perfect fabrics and furniture for two very different styles of living - from Washington, DC to the Arizona desert. We began our work in the winter of 2015 and it will continue through the completion of my home in January 2017 and I am sure beyond. Carl's attention to detail, listening skills, and professionalism have made our work fun and stress free. Thank you, Carl! ## Selected projects - [East Coast Ellegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/east-coast-ellegance-pj-vj~7247159) - Location: Bethesda, MD - Photos: 5 - [Texas Hill Country in Chevy Chase Maryland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/texas-hill-country-in-chevy-chase-maryland-pj-vj~5551180) - Location: Chevy Chase, MD - Photos: 21 - [Gilded Age Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gilded-age-residence-pj-vj~7247150) - Location: Palm Beach, FL - Photos: 8 - [Coastal Living In The Sun](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coastal-living-in-the-sun-pj-vj~6893451) - Location: Newport Beach, CA - Photos: 19 - [Chevy Chase New Home Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chevy-chase-new-home-design-pj-vj~7247160) - Location: Chevy Chase, MD - Photos: 6 - [A New Chapter](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-new-chapter-pj-vj~6893458) - Location: McLean, VA - Photos: 8 - [Sky High Living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sky-high-living-pj-vj~6893442) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - [Stylish in Potomac, Maryland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stylish-in-potomac-maryland-pj-vj~5537504) - Location: Potomac, MD - Photos: 11 - [Reimagining A Treasured Family Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/reimagining-a-treasured-family-home-pj-vj~6893439) - Location: Middleburg, VA - Photos: 3 - [Family Entertainment Level](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/family-entertainment-level-pj-vj~7247163) - Location: McLean, VA - Photos: 3 - [Dining Room Reimagined in Bethesda, MD](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dining-room-reimagined-in-bethesda-md-pj-vj~5518882) - Location: Bethesda, MD - Photos: 1 - [Georgetown DC Pied a terre](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/georgetown-dc-pied-a-terre-pj-vj~5490799) - Location: Washington D.C., DC - Photos: 5 - [Potomac, MD Home Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/potomac-md-home-design-pj-vj~7247155) - Location: Potomac, MD - Photos: 4 - [Landmark Loft DuPont Circle Washington, DC](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landmark-loft-dupont-circle-washington-dc-pj-vj~1834039) - Location: Washington D.C., DC - Photos: 25 - [Small Space High Style](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/small-space-high-style-pj-vj~6893449) - Location: Washington, DC - Photos: 5 - [Master Bedroom Suite Potomac, MD](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/master-bedroom-suite-potomac-md-pj-vj~5518862) - Location: Potomac, MD - Photos: 4 - [Transitional Style Meets Vintage Charm](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/transitional-style-meets-vintage-charm-pj-vj~1622437) - Location: Carmel, CA - Photos: 11 - [Mediterranean Comfort in Pebble Beach, California](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mediterranean-comfort-in-pebble-beach-california-pj-vj~1622682) - Location: Del Monte Forest, CA - Photos: 5 - [Traditional Values in Carmel by the Sea, California](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/traditional-values-in-carmel-by-the-sea-california-pj-vj~1622666) - Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Photos: 8 - [San Francisco Mid Century Modern Pied a Terre](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-francisco-mid-century-modern-pied-a-terre-pj-vj~1622633) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 6 [See all 24 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/carl-williamson-designs-llc-pfvwus-pf~2015151063) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/915187366.m3u8?s=59982d6f013529e7cbb9866e5b5568ff97dcf095&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of interior design projects do you specialize in (full-home, single room, remodel support)?** We specialize in full-service, whole-home design solutions for high-end residential and commercial interiors. Our expertise covers everything from urban lofts and grand estates to boutique hotels and restaurants. We also handle single-room designs, remodels, and offer comprehensive support through all project phases, ensuring a cohesive and luxurious outcome. **Do you specialize in specific design styles?** While I am celebrated for infusing designs with a lively elegance that artfully juxtaposes traditional timelessness with fresh modernity, my primary focus is on creating custom interiors that reflect your unique lifestyle, taste, and the architecture of your home. We don't limit ourselves to one style, ensuring your fingerprint, not ours, is on the finished project. **Do you work with contractors and architects during renovations?** Yes, absolutely. During the design phase, we actively meet with architects and any other necessary trade partners. In the project management phase, we secure contracts with contractors and sub-contractors, managing all aspects of your project from start to final installation to ensure a seamless process. **Do you manage the project through installation and styling?** Yes, absolutely. Our concierge-level design service includes comprehensive project management from start to final installation. We handle purchasing, secure contracts with all necessary parties, and coordinate the delivery and installation of all furnishings and accessories, ensuring a stress-free experience for you. **Do you work on luxury or high-end homes?** Yes, we specialize in luxury and high-end residential and commercial interiors. Our firm is dedicated to providing concierge-level service and the finest whole-home design solutions, curating spaces with exceptional quality furniture from manufacturers like Hickory Chair and Baker, custom rugs, and fine art to reflect our clients' sophisticated tastes. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Community Q&A **Q: Dining Room Rug Advice** *(in Home Decorating)* My great room has a navy and cream pattern rug. This room is open to the dining area. I need to purchase a rug for under my dining table, but don't want it to clash with the great room rug. I'm looking at neutrals, but not sure what kind of rug to buy. Any ideas? My table and floors are both dark. A: Hello Marsha, Sisal provides great textural interest and a neutral color palette. I have attached photos for inspiration below. Best of luck..... **Q: Powder room with black toilet. Help!** *(in Design Dilemma)* I’ve taken everything out of my powder room. It needs some TLC and a bit of updating. I’m thinking of adding two pendant lights but not sure how they would look with the arch. The wall color is brushed metallic on the interior space and flat/semi on the rest of the wall. I painted the ceiling black hoping to add flair...I don’t think it worked. I would consider wallpaper but not sure with the arch how to run it. Color or any suggestions on how to make this powder room shine would be greatly appreciated. A: Hello Girlscotti, You can really take liberties with a powder bath and they are often overlooked. I would embrace the black fixtures and vanity top! The space as nice architectural elements with the arch. I have attached a picture for you as an inspiration for your bathroom. I hope this helps.... **Q: Do You Have A Storm Door On Your House?** *(in Polls)* Do you have a storm door on your house? Feel free to share your reasons why you do or do not below! A: I live in Maryland. We experience our fair share of cold temperatures and snow in the winter along with heat and humidity in the summer months. For me, a storm door is a matter of preference. I personally do not believe they are aestheticly pleasing in any way shape or form and therefore advise my clients against them. **Q: granite selection** *(in Design Dilemma)* When we started our renovation, we were told to go to the granite warehouse and "tag" our selections. We tagged two slabs, and this document showing our choices was not given to the fabricator and he has said he has never seen this document. The job took 3 slabs and we never approved this third slab. We have also found out we only received one of the two slabs we chose. Does he not have to confirm what we tagged? A: Hello Diana, If you took the time to go to the granite yard, select specific slabs and tagged them and only one was used and a third added to the order without your approval that is in no way shape or form correct. Selecting stone is a very personal thing. The movement in the stone can appeal to some and not others. If you do not care for the two slabs that were picked on your behalf by whomever, I would insist that the job be redone. My clients go to a stone yard to select their slabs. Then, as Jamie pointed out, they go to the fabricator to approve how the template is being laid out. Some clients want some veining to be kept in tact or avoided if possible. This allows for a finished project that is completely to the clients taste. Good luck on resolving this issue with the stone yard and fabricator. **Q: help with my decision!!!** *(in Paint)* These two photos are of the same exact 3 colors (actually one color) lightened by 50 and 75%. Revere Pewter. It’s going I. A fairly large living room and common area as well as blending into kitchen. Need help on ceiling and wall choice please A: Hello Trish, I would not break up the wall and ceiling color in the vaulted space. Paint the walls and ceiling sample \#2. Paint walls only paint sample \#2 in the rest of the space with ceilings in white. **Q: Should living rm. Lamps match?** *(in Lighting)* Need twtwo new lamps with new l. Rm. Should they match? A: Hello Diane, I would recommend different lamps that compliment one another. Matching lamps are great on a diningroom buffet or in a very formal space where symmetry is required. Best of luck.... --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-23.*