Palm Beach, Florida, is renowned for its luxurious estates, vibrant art scene, and sophisticated residents. It’s no surprise that the area boasts a wealth of talented interior designers, many found through online searches and design platforms1. These designers seamlessly blend art and design elements to create truly stunning spaces. This article highlights eight Palm Beach interior designers, each selected for their artistic sensibilities and expertise in incorporating art into their designs. Each designer brings a unique perspective and approach, ensuring that every project reflects the client’s individual style and the home’s unique character.
To make the cut for this list, designers had to demonstrate a keen understanding of how to use art to elevate interior spaces. This includes not only selecting the right pieces but also understanding how to place them, how to use them to create a focal point, and how to complement them with other design elements such as color, texture, and lighting.
Krista Watterworth Alterman
Krista Watterworth Alterman is a celebrated interior designer and television personality with a modern, clean, and classic aesthetic3. Her firm, Krista + Home, is known for “Designing the New Palm Beach,” a style that blends casual elegance with a contemporary, functional approach3. This approach is characterized by a subtle coastal influence, impeccable service, and a focus on creating spaces that are both luxurious and livable3. Krista’s artistic sensibilities are evident in her ability to create spaces that feel both chic and sophisticated, yet comfortable and inviting5. She draws inspiration from fashion and photography, incorporating current trends and visual storytelling into her designs5.
Krista’s expertise lies in creating a cohesive flow throughout the home, ensuring that each room feels connected and purposeful6. She believes in incorporating personal touches, such as family photographs and cherished artwork, to give each space a unique soul7. Her designs have been featured in numerous publications, including Architectural Digest, Decor, Luxe Interiors & Design, and Florida Design8. In addition to her interior design work, Krista has also designed her own line of marble tiles, the “New Palm Beach” collection, available exclusively through TileBar9. This collection captures the glitz and glamour of Palm Beach with its stylish mosaic patterns and quintessential color palette9.
Recent Projects
- A four-story beach house in Juno Beach featuring a stylish elevator with a fun, designer vibe. The elevator incorporates a playful text treatment on the door, a crisscross millwork pattern, mirrors, and a large statement hand-painted tile that is also used in the laundry room10.
- A Tequesta waterfront project10.
- A condo redesign in Juno Beach5.
- A five-bedroom new construction in North Palm Beach5.
- A new build on Jupiter Island5.
How Krista Incorporates Art
Krista believes in incorporating art in a way that complements the overall design and reflects the client’s personality. She often uses personal photography and meaningful pieces to add a personal touch to the space7. In one project, she had to design an entire room around a client’s 1920s piano, which, while not aesthetically pleasing, held sentimental value for the homeowner7. This demonstrates Krista’s commitment to creating spaces that are both beautiful and meaningful to her clients.
Awards and Recognition
Krista’s work has been recognized with numerous awards, including:
- Two 2020 LUXE Residential Excellence (RED) Awards3.
- Two 2018 American Society of Interior Designers Crystal Awards3.
- A 2018 LUXE Residential Excellence Award3.
- Three 2017 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards3.
- 2023 Seaglass Award, Best Renovation, Florida Design11.
- 2022 Best of Palm Beach-First Place, Home Decorating, Palm Beach Post11.
- 2022 Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Florida, The Commonwealth Institute11.
- 2022 Best of Design, Interior Icons Modern Luxury Interiors11.
- 2021 Top Women-Led Business in Florida, The Commonwealth Institute11.
- 2021 Best of Palm Beach-Home Decorating, Palm Beach Post11.
- 2021 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence- First Place, Bathroom11.
Client Testimonials
Krista’s clients rave about her ability to create beautiful and functional spaces that reflect their personalities and lifestyles. Here are a few testimonials:
- “Krista and her team made renovations to our home stress-free and fun! She truly listened to all of our ideas and created a living room and kitchen that was cozy, yet classy. I look forward to working with her again!” 12
- “My husband and I are extremely happy with our new home thanks to Krista and her design team. They were communicative and timely in all aspects of our project.” 12
- “Creative and distinct with a great customer-focused mindset. We chose Krista + Home for a fresh, contemporary Florida look. We are in the midst of planning our renovation with their team and they have been wonderful to work with. Highly recommend!” 8
David Phoenix
David Phoenix is an award-winning designer known for his elegant style and luxurious, comfortable interiors13. With nearly three decades of experience, his client-driven firm has designed homes for celebrities, royalty, and financiers13. David takes an immersive approach to each project, often involved from the initial architectural consultations to the final art acquisitions13. He believes in truly understanding his clients’ needs and preferences, taking the time to learn about their lifestyles and how they envision using their spaces13. This dedication to his clients is reflected in his personalized approach and attention to detail.
David’s work reflects his love of history combined with a modern sensibility13. He seamlessly blends antique and contemporary styles, creating layered and distinguished interiors13. He believes that a room should never feel predictable and emphasizes artisanal, handmade, and custom work13. In addition to his interior design work, David has also designed a furniture collection for Hickory Chair and a textile collection for Kravet14. These collections showcase his diverse design talents and further emphasize his artistic vision.
Recent Projects
- Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach15.
- Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York15.
- Montecito Estate15.
- Newport Coast, California residence15.
- Bel Air Hilltop home15.
How David Incorporates Art
David’s approach to incorporating art is integral to his design philosophy. He considers the interplay of light, views, and the presence of children and pets when selecting and placing art13. He often starts with the art and builds the design around it, ensuring that each piece complements the overall aesthetic and enhances the room’s ambiance16.
Awards and Recognition
David’s work has been widely recognized in the design industry, with features in numerous publications and awards, including:
- Named one of the top 25 interior designers in Los Angeles by The Hollywood Reporter13.
- Featured in Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Veranda, and LUXE13.
- Participated in the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in both New York and Palm Beach13.
Client Testimonials
David’s clients appreciate his dedication to creating personalized and luxurious spaces that reflect their individual styles. Here’s what one client had to say:
- “Maria Shriver who was my first client that took a chance on my and we are still going!! She has been a supporter of mine over the past two and half decades!!” 14
Meg Braff
Meg Braff is known for her exuberant take on traditional design, creating livable spaces imbued with playful glamour and a modern perspective17. Her sophisticated color sense and deft eye for mixing antique and modern pieces have earned her a reputation for creating elegant and inviting interiors18.
Meg’s design philosophy centers on cultivating personal style and creating homes that reflect her clients’ lifestyles19. She believes in a thoughtful and deliberate approach, starting with color, pattern, and a timeless mix of furnishings19. She has a particular fondness for incorporating vintage and antique pieces, which she believes add a sense of history and personality to her designs19.
In addition to her interior design work, Meg has also designed an extensive collection of wallpapers and fabrics20. These collections feature her signature playful patterns and vibrant color palettes, inspired by classic designs and reimagined for modern interiors. She also authored the book “The Decorated Home: Living with Style and Joy,” which further showcases her design philosophy and expertise22.
Recent Projects
- Palm Beach retreat23.
- Maine island escape23.
- Newport historic home23.
- Southampton residence23.
- Locust Valley estate23.
How Meg Incorporates Art
Meg views art as an essential element in creating a layered and personalized space19. She often uses art to introduce color and pattern, especially when working with clients who prefer a neutral palette24. She also believes that incorporating personal items and meaningful objects adds a final layer of happiness to a home19.
Awards and Recognition
Meg’s work has been featured in numerous publications, including House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Veranda, Coastal Living, Southern Living, and Hamptons Cottages & Gardens22.
Client Testimonials
Meg’s clients appreciate her ability to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional, reflecting their individual styles and needs. Here are a few testimonials:
- “Meg Braff amazes me with her artful use of color and clever arrangement of accessories. This book is a keeper for sure.” 25
- “One of the better interior design books I’ve seen!” 25
Helen Bergin
Helen Bergin Interiors is a full-service interior design firm known for its classical dynamic design with a modern whimsical twist26. Helen believes that design should be personalized to fit each client’s individual style and taste26. She aims to create spaces that embody the meaning of home, combining comfort with sophistication and blending the past with the present26.
Helen’s background includes both residential and commercial projects26. Her work has been featured in various publications, including The Boston Globe, Business of Home, Country Home, Modern Luxury, Palm Beach Illustrated, and The Wall Street Journal26.
Recent Projects
- A cabana bath designed for the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach, featuring a whimsical “Aquatic Underworld” theme with jellyfish wall décor, bubble motifs, resin sinks, and bookmatched slabs26.
- A contemporary Palm Beach home with bold pops of color, feminine details, brass accents, and jewelry-like lighting27.
How Helen Incorporates Art
Helen’s approach to incorporating art involves understanding her clients’ vision and adding personality to every space26. She believes in using art to create a focal point and enhance the overall mood and atmosphere of the room. In her “Aquatic Underworld” cabana bath, she used art to create a playful and whimsical environment26.
Awards and Recognition
Helen’s work has been recognized with a Houzz award and two Houzz badges28.
Client Testimonials
Helen’s clients praise her ability to blend contemporary and classic design elements to create personalized and inviting spaces. Here are a few testimonials:
- “Helen Bergin is amazing! Her ability to reimagine a room, with existing furniture, and put together a fabric scheme to reupholster the furniture, using the existing rug and artwork, was incredible.” 28
- “Helen has a beautiful aesthetic and a unique perspective to help you make your dream design a reality.” 28
Alexandra Naranjo
Alexandra Naranjo Designs is an award-winning firm that infuses clients’ lives with elements of true luxury29. Each project is treated as a unique and exquisite custom piece, tailored to the client’s story, history, and style29. Alexandra’s designs are known for their modern sensibilities and timeless elegance, creating interiors that are both stylish and functional30.
Alexandra takes a personalized approach, working closely with clients to ensure their personalities echo throughout their homes30. Her firm, originally established in Toronto, has now flourished in Palm Beach, offering a wide range of services, from project management to single-room solutions and whole-home makeovers31.
Recent Projects
- Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach 2021, where she created a tranquil bathroom with an enchanted garden theme32.
How Alexandra Incorporates Art
Alexandra believes that window treatments are an important aspect of incorporating art into a space32. She uses fabrics that make a statement, emphasizing the architecture of the room and adding color and texture32. She also believes in selecting art that complements the overall design and enhances the room’s ambiance.
Awards and Recognition
Alexandra Naranjo Designs is an award-winning firm, recognized for its personalized artistry and unique design approach31.
Client Testimonials
Alexandra’s clients appreciate her collaborative approach and dedication to creating spaces that reflect their individual preferences. Here’s what one client had to say:
- “From the moment you meet Alexandra, she is focused on creating a home that is your dream come true.” 29
The Art of Interior Design
These Palm Beach designers share a deep understanding of how to incorporate art into their interiors. They each have their own unique approach, but they all recognize the power of art to elevate a space, create a focal point, and tell a story.
Krista Watterworth Alterman often uses personal photography and meaningful pieces to add a personal touch to her designs7. In one project, she designed an entire room around a client’s 1920s piano, demonstrating her commitment to creating spaces that are both beautiful and meaningful7.
David Phoenix considers the interplay of light, views, and the presence of children and pets when selecting and placing art13. He often starts with the art and builds the design around it, ensuring that each piece complements the overall aesthetic16.
Meg Braff uses art to introduce color and pattern, especially when working with clients who prefer a neutral palette24. She also believes that incorporating personal items and meaningful objects adds a final layer of happiness to a home19.
Helen Bergin believes in using art to create a focal point and enhance the overall mood and atmosphere of the room26. In her “Aquatic Underworld” cabana bath, she used art to create a playful and whimsical environment26.
Alexandra Naranjo sees window treatments as an important aspect of incorporating art into a space32. She uses fabrics that make a statement, emphasizing the architecture of the room and adding color and texture32.
Summary
These eight Palm Beach interior designers exemplify the area’s commitment to artistic excellence and luxurious living. Each designer brings a unique perspective and approach to incorporating art into their designs, ensuring that every project is a true reflection of the client’s vision and the home’s unique character. Whether you prefer a modern, classic, or whimsical aesthetic, these designers have the expertise and creativity to transform your home into a masterpiece. They understand that a home is more than just a space to live in; it’s a canvas for self-expression and a reflection of one’s personal journey. Through their artful use of design and their deep understanding of the interplay between art and interiors, these designers create spaces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful and inspiring.
Designer | Typical Fees | Client Testimonials | Awards and Recognition | Contact Information |
---|---|---|---|---|
Krista Watterworth Alterman | $300,000 – 3 million minimum spend in furnishings (plus design fee) 12 | “Krista and her team made renovations to our home stress-free and fun!” 12 <br> “My husband and I are extremely happy with our new home thanks to Krista and her design team.” 12 <br> “Creative and distinct with a great customer-focused mindset.” 8 | Two 2020 LUXE Residential Excellence (RED) Awards 3 <br> Two 2018 American Society of Interior Designers Crystal Awards 3 <br> A 2018 LUXE Residential Excellence Award 3 <br> Three 2017 American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards 3 <br> 2023 Seaglass Award, Best Renovation, Florida Design 11 <br> 2022 Best of Palm Beach-First Place, Home Decorating, Palm Beach Post 11 <br> More awards listed in research 11 | 4880 Donald Ross Road, Suite 100, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 33 <br> 561-530-3983 33 <br> info@kristahome.com 33 |
David Phoenix | Not specified | “Maria Shriver who was my first client that took a chance on my and we are still going!! She has been a supporter of mine over the past two and half decades!!” 14 | Named one of the top 25 interior designers in Los Angeles by The Hollywood Reporter 13 <br> Featured in Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Veranda, and LUXE 13 <br> Participated in the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in both New York and Palm Beach 13 | 205 Seaview Avenue, Palm Beach, FL 33480 34 <br> 561-264-3744 34 <br> info@davidphoenix.com 34 |
Meg Braff | Not specified | “Meg Braff amazes me with her artful use of color and clever arrangement of accessories.” 25 <br> “One of the better interior design books I’ve seen!” 25 | Featured in numerous publications, including House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Veranda, Coastal Living, Southern Living, and Hamptons Cottages & Gardens 22 | 6417 Georgia Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33405 35 <br> 516-801-4939 36 <br> info@megbraffdesigns.com 36 |
Helen Bergin | $50,000 – 1 million 28 | “Helen Bergin is amazing! Her ability to reimagine a room, with existing furniture, and put together a fabric scheme to reupholster the furniture, using the existing rug and artwork, was incredible.” 28 <br> “Helen has a beautiful aesthetic and a unique perspective to help you make your dream design a reality.” 28 | Houzz award and two Houzz badges 28 | 214 Brazilian Ave, Palm Beach, FL 37 <br> info@helenbergininteriors.com 38 |
Alexandra Naranjo | Not specified | “From the moment you meet Alexandra, she is focused on creating a home that is your dream come true.” 29 | Award-winning firm, recognized for its personalized artistry and unique design approach 31 | Contact information not found in the provided research. |
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