Designer Spotlight: Mark Marynick, Casci Ornamental Plaster

Dallas native Mark Marynick is something of an up-and-coming legend in the Dallas design community. His innovative, enthusiastic interpretations of both historic and modern designs of ornamental plaster transform buildings and residences, giving them an Old-World quality that feels equally contemporary and fresh in any setting. Marynick’s ornamental plaster mantles and eye-catching, decorative trim work stop you in your tracks, thanks to unparalleled craftsmanship and an adherence to scale and quality that brings balance and beauty to every space.

We sat down with Mark to learn more about his background, artistry, and inspirations, as well as the vision he has for his fan-favorite, Dallas-based business, Casci Ornamental Plaster.

What led you to a career with Casci Plaster?

Growing up in Dallas, I was always interested in art. My mom is an artist and I took several art classes while I was a student at Highland Park High School. After I was injured playing football for Harvard, I hopped back into a few art and studio classes with my newly found free time. I couldn’t get enough. Art has truly always been a part of my identity and the pursuit of artistic interests a passion throughout my entire life.

After working in the private equity world for many years, I heard about Casci from a notable local architect and family friend, Wilson Fuqua, who told me that Casci was a business that needed to be saved. It was the right time and purchasing the business brought many of my acquired skills together at once — from understanding the business side to art history and craftsmanship. I’ve never looked back!

Tell us about Casci; what kind of craftsmanship and products do you offer?

Casci Ornamental Plaster was founded in 1930 by Mr. Casci, an Italian immigrant and skillful plaster maker who was dedicated to his passion for sculpting beautiful, authentically designed ornamental pieces. I acquired the business in 2017, and today, we continue to maintain the high level of integrity that Casci has always been known for with an adherence to the traditions of excellence and attention to classic architecture.

Where do you find inspiration?

I love to travel — across the US and around the world. My sister lives in London and every time I visit, I enjoy wandering in and out of the incredible buildings the city boasts — the large painted hall at The Royal Naval Academy in Greenwich and the Birmingham Stock Exchange building in Birmingham are two of my favorites! The attention to detail is unmatched.

Just last week, I was in New York City at The Plaza Hotel for The Orchid Dinner benefitting The New York Botanical Garden, where one of my plaster urns was used by Dallas designer Javier Burkle in his tablescape. As we were walking down a staircase to the gala, I couldn’t take my eyes off the hotel’s plasterwork — I love analyzing designs and applications anywhere I can find it!

What projects are you most excited about this year?

We’ve been honored to work on a variety of so many exciting projects over the years, from multiple rooms in both the 2020 and 2021 Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas and a wonderful historic project in New Orleans, to name a few. This year, I love the work we’re doing at Old Parkland as well as at a large residence on Turtle Creek near the University Park fire station. We’re also working with acclaimed NYC-based architect Peter Pennoyer on a new project.

Additionally, we’re anticipating plans to move operations for Casci to a new, consolidated location at the old Mrs. Baird’s building just east of downtown, hopefully by the end of 2022! We can’t wait to offer a one-stop location for designers and industry professionals to view and discuss projects with us.