Team
Founders Brian McGrory and James Houston celebrate a diverse career of visual expression that spans over thirty years. Their passion for interior and landscape design originated from years of international travel and exposure to some of the world’s most prestigious living environments which helped influence their style and aesthetic.
Together they have designed and built several stunning residential and commercial spaces which have been featured internationally in publications such as Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Luxe and Belle Australia.
The couple have always enjoyed entertaining and sharing the spaces they create with their friends and family. After living in New York for twenty years the couple moved to Los Angeles to launch Studio JBD and focus on residential design and real estate development. Since its launch Studio JBD has garnered high profile net worth and private clients who appreciate their aesthetic and New York sensibility.
James Houston
Before launching Studio JBD, James Houston was recognized as one of the world’s leading beauty photographers, shooting for leading international brands such as L’Oreal Paris, Givenchy and Vogue and working with celebrities including Jennifer Lopez, Julianne Moore and Cate Blanchett. James is also an award-winning filmmaker and respected activist having raised millions of dollars through his community projects for various charities worldwide.
Over the years James has developed a discerning eye for detail and a true passion for home and landscape design. Originating from Australia James has a great understanding of interior flow, functional layout and indoor/outdoor living.
Five award winning books have been published on his photography and his fine art photographic prints have also been featured in the homes Studio JBD have designed. These are available for sale through the Studio JBD Shop.
Brian McGrory
Brian McGrory is a talented interior designer, culinary and visual storyteller, and creative director. Whether styling a composition, layering flavors, setting a beautiful scape, or designing a space, Brian is renowned for his graceful yet eclectic pairings. Layered textures and patterns, collected vintage pieces, and highly contrasting elements are all hallmarks of Brian’s aesthetic. Across his creative endeavors he is fueled by his love of intriguing visuals and his love for creating lifestyle moments.
Following a stint in the UK, when he worked in hotel management and publicity, Brian moved to NYC in 2001 and founded several successful restaurants and a hospitality and events consulting business.
Passionately merging lifestyle with food, design and real estate Brian has successfully developed, designed and conceptualized many projects in both the commercial and residential world. He is also a licensed real estate agent in California.