The Globalization of Interior Design

AMERICAN SOURCED WALLPAPER - ITALIAN LIGHTING

South Florida is experiencing a tremendous influx of international visitors, investors, and residents, resulting in globalization of every social, economical, and political aspect. Defining international influences was the focus of a panel discussion hosted by Drew Limsky, editor of Modern Luxury magazine, held at DCOTA (Design Center of the Americas) in Dania Beach, FL on July 24th. Contributors to the discussion were international experts Nevio Boccanera, Executive Director of Italy-American Chamber of Commerce Southeast, Carlos Marica, Board Member and 2013 President of the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Jay Parker, CEO of Douglas Elliman Real Estate, and Brazilian Interior Designer Guimar Urbina.

The group discussed the importance of recognizing the cultural diversity of South Florida,

AFRICAN MAHOGANY KITCHEN/BRAZILIAN TABLES/ITALIAN SEATING

and stressed the vast opportunities provided by collaboration of international business interests. It was unanimously agreed that the success of South Florida businesses relies upon creating multi-cultural relationships and improving management techniques across the board while maintaining cultural diversity that adds enormous value to the area.

ELCLECTIC MIX OF MATERIALS & COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN

Growth has come primarily from Venezuela, Argentina while populations from Canada, Italy, and China, are on the rise. They’re bringing tremendous changes to real estate markets, affecting the type and quality of architecture and design. South Florida demographics has changed drastically over the years, evolving from a meager location for elderly couples to retire to a vibrant center of business, education, culture, and entertainment. Homes are being purchased as primary residences instead of vacation or investment properties.

In addition to impacting real estate, the influx of the populace provides amazing

CUSTOM AFRICAN MAHOGANY DOORS

opportunities for the design industry. The luxury market is experiencing tremendous growth. Greater attention is being given to design and décor to create warm, welcoming, elegant, and sophisticated.

So it is not surprising that design schemes are more complex, requiring designers to become knowledgeable about a vast range of cultural preferences. Professional designers must have a full and ready arsenal of ideas, interpretive abilities, depth of resources, knowledge, as well as organizational and business skills to devise and complete an entire project that satisfies every client.

It’s no wonder then, that every project I’ve had the opportunity of being hired to create has been very diverse in every aspect – color, style, materials, function. They’ve all been challenging and most rewarding. 

Color palettes from neutral camel, cafe au lait, whites, and bronze accessories to gray, black, white, and chrome trim, or colorful red, coral, green, white, and antiques.

Dark or light; serene or bright; textures in solid colors or prints; design schemes are limitless.  

For complete images of each project visit my portfolio on Houzz

Abundant inspirational ideas can be found on my website.

Initial consultations are FREE! So act now so your home will be ready for the holidays.