Bea Pernia is a contemporary interior designer. She recently debuted the Atus Collection, in collaboration with Grupo Arca, at Design Miami/ 2021. Projects include Hiyakawa omakase restaurant in Miami and Roc Hotel in Tulum, Mexico.

Where are you from and where do you live now? I was born in Los Angeles, raised in Venezuela, and I currently live in Miami.

When did your interest in design begin? Was there a formative moment? From a very young age, I have always loved to create environments in which I felt comfortable. Therefore, I suppose my passion for interior design has always been present. I studied art in college and that was when I started my formative career in design. In 2010, I took my first job in interior design at a local studio, and soon after I founded my own interior design studio in 2012.  

What was your first job in design?  My first job was at a local furniture store. I was assigned to work with a client in the furniture selection, and implemented many interior design skills. In my own company, my first job was for a client that had been referred to me to remodel his house. 

Your parents are from Venezuela and you grew up there. How did this multicultural upbringing impact your life and designs?  I would say that my exposure to the diverse natural landscape and timeless architecture of Caracas inspired my approach as a designer 100 percent.  Growing up in Venezuela gives you the feeling of getting to know the whole country— from the beach to the country to the city. I’m very inspired by natural materials, especially when you start combining them. My experiences in South America also honed my appreciation for a spectacular view, a trademark of many of my projects. In Venezuela, whether you’re on the beach or in the mountains, or in the city— you’re always surrounded by great views. That became very important to me. Now, through my designs, if you don’t have a great view, I will make one.

How often do you visit Venezuela? Favorite places to visit or things to do there?  I used to go more often, but as of now, due to the political and socio-economic situation, it has been over 5 years. Before that, I would go every year, at least once. My favorite places to visit are, of course, Caracas, the city where I grew up, and the “Gran Sabana” where you are surrounded by nature and the world’s highest waterfall, “El Salto Angel.”

What is your dream design project or client? I can say that my dream design project would be a hospitality project where the client gives me absolute freedom in the creative process. A project in which I can include my passion for natural and organic materials and shapes.

Who or what inspires you? I am deeply inspired by nature and all the beautiful surroundings and energy it gives us. In all my projects, I usually try to apply natural elements that bring their healing energy inside our home or spaces.

Favorite places or things to do in Miami?  I love to be near the water, so my ideal plans are either be on the beach or going around in a boat. The best Venezuelan restaurant in my opinion is Doggies.

Favorite places to travel? Every year I look forward to being at Salone del Mobile in Milan. Of course, I try to take advantage of being in Europe and always travel around as well. 

How was the experience of presenting at Design Miami? It was a really rewarding experience. I was very honored to have been chosen as one of the exhibitors this past year. The feedback from colleagues and professionals in the industry was beyond my expectations and this made all the difference.

What are your favorite materials to work with?   Different types of woods, and organic fabrics and materials.  

Favorite design movement or period and why?  Contemporary interior design, I like to keep my designs following the trends that are currently in the market.  

What is your daily life like? Weekends? Work, work, work and rest. My weekdays are usually at the showroom / design studio, working with my team on projects. Visiting clients, suppliers and job sites. During the weekends, if I do not have anything pending from work, I love to relax and enjoy my days with friends and family. 

Text: Veronica H. Speck