Palm Beach. Just the sound of the name is powerful enough to conjure visions of beautiful estates, swaying palm trees and elegant soirees. Since its founding 100 years ago, Palm Beach has seen various interior design styles, from salons filled with Victorian wicker settees and Louis XIV bergeres to heavy Mediterranean thrones. All have made their mark on the island, which now boasts a style all its own.
In a place where iconic names such as Addison Mizner, Lilly Pulitzer and Gucci are commonplace, there is no shortage of design perspective. The interior of a Palm Beach home is the perfect tableau for homeowners to show off their design savvy. A certain opulence is expected of Palm Beach interior design, due in part to the sheer size of some estates, but more importantly, as a response to the unique character of the architecture. The general essence of Palm Beach style is one of affluence and provenance. No detail is left to chance.
The island certainly has its share of over-the-top and glitzy interiors. However, real Palm Beach style is often understated and drop-dead chic. When Palm Beach is mentioned in the context of design, it is about great style with a casual, almost effortless attitude.
This Palm Beach style is versatile and can be just as effective in smaller homes and condominiums. The look can also be achieved easily without the need to break the bank or own one. Consider these tips for adding Palm Beach style to your home:
— For sophistication, add a touch of an animal print, for instance, leopard-print carpeting or zebra-striped fabric.
— Add colossal clusters of orchids. They are often less expensive than a dozen long-stemmed roses.
— Use Pulitzer-inspired colors of pink, chartreuse and orange paired with white for contrast.
— Don’t be afraid of bamboo or bamboo-inspired furniture. Vintage pieces are especially coveted.
— Using acrylic tables or accessories adds a bit of retro whimsy.
— Seagrass carpeting offers a beachy look.
— Slip-covered furniture suggests a casual look, but also protects that peach damask fabric underneath.
— Tortoise-shell tea caddies or other unusual accessories work as a conversation piece.
— Arrange collections carefully for impact.
— Linen or unlined taffeta drapery says dressed up and casual at the same time.
— Palm trees in beautiful cachepots celebrate the eponymous island emblem.
— A good dash of humor goes a long way.
It’s safe to say there isn’t one Palm Beach style. Palm Beach is gifted with what the French call BCBG — Bon Chic, Bon Genre, which translates as “good style, good attitude.” Whatever you choose, consider these suggestions to ensure a stylish and oh soooo Palm Beach look.
Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Florida. To find out more about Joseph Pubillones, or to read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.
Photo credit: at Unsplash