I was born in Cuba and raised in Panama. Panama in many ways will always be embedded in my psyche: memories of the down pouring tropical storms while sitting on our veranda or deep sea fishing in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean; the impromptu cocktail parties or the formal dinners fit for a king; and last but by no means least, the open doors that welcomed friends at any time, day or night. These early experiences have had an immense influence on my sense of lifestyle.

I went abroad to New York to study at Vassar College, a bastion of liberal arts. My B.A. was in Literature, but my interests were limitless. I studied Art History, sculpture and painting. Our professors taught us to experience art beyond something hung on the wall or put on a pedestal in a museum. At Vassar I learned how to think and examine the root of a question as a way of answering it critically and most importantly I was taught to see.

The next time that I went abroad was to Paris to continue my studies in French Literature, Art History and Classical Architecture. Paris released the free spirit in me, freeing me from inhibitions and unleashing a sense of fearlessness that has had a formative influence on me as a designer.

498 7th Avenue in Manhattan is where I began my career in the world of fashion, becoming the Fashion Director for Sasson Jeans and then Jordache until the late 80’s when I moved to Miami. I set the fashion trends and traveled regularly to Paris, London, Milan, Rome, St Tropez, Florence, Hong Kong and Japan. The key to great design in fashion is to create what will be wanted. The key to great design in interiors is capturing the spirit of the client and the essence of the space.

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My fashion background, as well as the knowledge gained from the study of art, led me to a career in interior decorating. My passion in design lies in how people live their daily life in their home. I create calm, juxtaposed against bold beauty, sometimes quiet, sometimes not, depending upon the client's personality. Life is often deeply challenging; home should be one's beautiful refuge.

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