Oscar de la Renta’s influence extends far beyond fashion and into the realms of fragrance and furniture. Recently, the famed designer and the Duchess of Devonshire visited the Design Center of the Americas in Dania Beach to tout their latest garden collection for Century Furniture.

His usual suave and debonair self, de la Renta charmed the audience with casual conversation and personal anecedotes. Afterward, he chatted with guests at the Terrace 436 showroom, where the new line was on view. Our article offers a glimpse into the man and his life.

And speaking of larger than life, Alex Katz’s paintings command attention with their size and visual power. South Floridians have an opportunity to view the renowned artist’s work at Rosenbaum Contemporary in Boca Raton from March 10 to April 9, 2005. In anticipation of this event, Florida Design spoke with Katz about his paintings, process and favorite subject matter.

Like artists, designers work with various palettes to create just the right impact. For her clients’ country club home, Cecil Hayes used a color scheme of lavender, green, yellow and reddish-pink to give the interior dramatic punch.

In an oceanfront condominium, cool watery hues combine with Art Deco curves and witty furniture. Designer H. Allen Holmes and architect Mitchell O’Neil completely renovated the interior, transforming the original floor plan into a fun, modern space.

Putting on his futuristic thinking cap, L. Reese Cumming conceived a space-age concept for his clients’ residence, which he refers to as a “Jetsons” look. Biomorphic forms and amorphous shapes appear in curved walls, ceilings and room dividers, adding to the galactic feel.

Florida Design is also thinking ahead to our next issue, which will mark our 15th anniversary. And we’ll be celebrating in style.
Barbara Lichtenstein

Barbara Lichtenstein