John Danzer’s work in exterior environments began not as a business, but as a curiosity. Trained originally in international finance, he developed an early interest in historic gardens — and in the role furnishings played within them.

In the most accomplished landscapes, benches, tables and chairs were not decorative additions; they were compositional elements.

That curiosity became sustained research. Over time, John assembled an extensive archive of historic garden furniture, drawings and catalogues, and became a sought-after speaker on the subject, lecturing at institutions including the Cooper Hewitt, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Garden Museum, and the Garden Conservancy.

From this foundation of scholarship and collecting, he established Munder-Skiles more than three decades ago — a company devoted to the design and manufacture of enduring outdoor furniture.

Today, through The Exterior Decorator, he draws on that history and experience to advise on the composition and furnishing of exterior rooms in collaboration with architects, designers and private clients.

John and his husband, Chip Allemann, divide their time between Xàbia, Spain and Paris, France. The design archive is housed in Garrison, New York, where they maintain a home.