With an interior design portfolio that spans elegant homes to luxury resorts, French entrepreneur Aurélie Bard is a creative force in South Florida.
Creative Direction by Sydney Mastrandrea
With a penchant for luxury living and an eye for exquisite design, Aurélie Bard is one of South Florida’s most in-demand interior designers. Originally from France, Bard is founder of Haute Design by Aurélie Bard. With projects all over the world, she is inspired by both her European roots and her tropical surroundings. We caught up with the entrepreneur to dive deeper into her divine aesthetic.
Tell us about your company, Haute Design by Aurélie Bard.
We epitomize the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication in interior design, and we’re known for meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to excellence whether it’s for the home, jet or yacht. I aim to transform spaces into timeless sanctuaries, seamlessly blending classical beauty with contemporary flair. I believe in the art of refined living, where every element is thoughtfully curated to reflect quality and style.
How would you describe your approach to interior design?
Understanding that a client’s property is their sanctuary, I invest time in a personalized approach. I believe that every space should reflect the values and aspirations of its owner and tell a story that is uniquely theirs. I work toward a harmonious blend of artistry, innovation and meticulous craftsmanship. I begin with understanding my clients’ desires and lifestyles so that I can ensure that each project is a bespoke reflection of their unique vision. I look for opportunities to marry timeless elegance with contemporary sophistication, resulting in functional and exquisite spaces. Curating the finest materials is important—from opulent marbles to sumptuous fabrics, ensuring every element exudes quality and refinement. Our attention to detail is paramount, with each fixture, finish, and furnishing carefully selected to complement the overall aesthetic. I believe in the power of personalized spaces, where custom-made furniture and tailored design solutions meet our clients’ specific needs and tastes. By delving into the client’s needs, preferences, and styles, I encourage them to step out of their comfort zones, consistently delivering results that surpass expectations. The ultimate reward is witnessing the joy in the client’s eyes as they experience their personalized sanctuary for the first time.
What advice do you have for new clients who want to transform their space?
We focus on the elevation of their lifestyle. My advice to new clients seeking a luxurious and sophisticated transformation begins with envisioning a space that epitomizes elegance and comfort and starting the journey with an open mind. I work on defining their aesthetic preferences—whether they lean towards classic opulence, modern minimalism or eclectic grandeur. During the consultation phase, I encourage them to articulate their desires and lifestyle needs, allowing me to translate their vision into a bespoke design. Investing in quality over quantity, we select premium materials, custom furnishings, and artisanal finishes that not only exude their tastes but also stand the test of time. And ultimately, we focus on creating a sanctuary that reflects their personality and enhances their daily living.
What inspires you?
My design inspiration is deeply enriched by the textures, clothing, and traditions encountered during my travels around the world. This global perspective ensures that my spaces are not only luxurious but also infused with a rich tapestry of cultural narratives, creating environments that are as unique as they are sophisticated. I’m profoundly inspired by the allure of European style. The sophistication and elegance inherent in European design, characterized by its rich historical influences and meticulous craftsmanship, guide my creative vision. I admire the harmonious blend of classic and contemporary elements—from the grandeur of Baroque to the clean lines of modernist architecture. Fashion’s artistry, from the precise tailing of haute couture to the vibrant hues of traditional garments, sparks my creativity and informs my color palettes and fabric selections.
What are a few of your favorite design shops and brands?
Among my favorites is Arca because I love their exquisite marble selections. I also hold Visionnaire in high regard because it’s synonymous with opulent and avant-garde furniture. Each piece from Visionnaire adds a touch of artistic elegance to our projects, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Casa Akan’s pieces serve as both functional elements and works of art within my designs, and they are known for their exceptional bespoke furniture and accessories. Through my partnership with international art gallery Galeries Bartoux, I weave in exceptional art pieces that integrate seamlessly, providing a rich cultural and aesthetic dimension that elevates my projects to new heights. I have collaborated for years with Luxxu in Portugal, and I love their sophisticated lighting and furniture collections, which bring an additional layer of glamour and refinement.
What projects are you most excited about right now?
I’m thrilled about my involvement in a luxury hotel resort project in Exuma. Using the natural surroundings of the Bahamas as inspiration, I’m working on harmonizing the interiors with nature. From designing exclusive suites with panoramic ocean views to crafting inviting communal spaces that blend seamlessly with the tropical landscape, I am curating every detail to enhance the guest experience. Collaborating closely with architects and developers, I’m dedicated to ensuring that every aspect of the resort reflects our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating unforgettable spaces.
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