How would you describe your style? My personal style is rooted in the 70s and developed in the 90s. Maybe that would be rustic elegance?
Before I started making I… I was a product manager at Elektra Records for a host of rock bands and artists.
If I weren’t a maker I’d be... Likely still in the music business in some way. But I'd love to have record/guitar store/cafe.
What is the most challenging project you have worked on? Why? The first order I received from ABC Home which came about 6 months into launching DBO HOME officially. I was greener than green and had to ramp up my studio and my production skills super fast to make the 666 pieces that needed to be delivered in a very short period of time. Even learning how to pack and ship properly was a challenge. But once that was handled I felt empowered to be able to take on big projects like the ones I do for restaurants now.
Favorite quote or words to live by: Be kind.
If I could run away I’d go… To the beach! Ocean, sand dunes, beach grass, rickety worn wood docks…
What are you most thankful for? My husband and my good health.
What would be on your maker’s soundtrack? It changes frequently. This week I'm really into listening to some of the bands I used to work with like Spacehog and Buffalo Tom (missing the 90s).
Any hidden talents? I can play the guitar.
What is your most treasured possession? My 1970 Martin 000-28 acoustic guitar. I have cherished it since I was 15.
If you could learn a new skill, what would it be? Woodworking. If I could be more precise, I'd really love to be able to build something.
Last book you read? Why I Cook - a memoir by Tom Colicchio
What do you see outside your bedroom window? 100 acres of wetlands.
What do you hear right now? The rain and my tinnitus.
Who’s the most famous person you’ve ever met? Who's more famous Robert Plant or Angus Young?
What was the last gift you gave someone? Two of my vases.
If money was not a factor, how would you live? Pretty much how we live now, but without the anxiety.
Best piece of advice you have ever received? Pick something. When my career in music ended I was floundering. I could try this, or I could try that. So I did nothing for far too long, like a dear caught in the headlights. Both Danny and my brother gave me the same advice, "Pick something". It seemed to have worked.
Favorite time of day? Golden Hour.
Favorite thing to cook? It's coming tomato season shortly and I'll look forward to the simplest most delicious pasta made with burst cherry tomatoes (hopefully from my garden), garlic, olive oil, red pepper flake, a little dollop of fresh ricotta and sprinkling of basil.
What’s your design pet peeve? Matchy matchy. Please, just no.
What is your favorite aspect of your job? The opportunity to create something new just because I want to give it go.
Favorite quote or words to live by: Never stop learning.
What was the last gift you gave someone? A shortwave radio.
What is a new skill/hobby you have learned? I’m learning morse code.
To see more work by DBO HOME visit, FAIR Design.
To see more of Daniel’s guitars visit, www.oatesguitars.com or his instagram @oatesguitars.
Artists photograph by William and Susan Brinson.