The Real Class of Palm Beach: A Blend of History, Style, and Innovation
If you haven't seen @classofpalmbeach on Instagram, you're missing out. The Instagram account takes Palm Beach style seriously with nearly daily interviews of men and women strolling Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, ready to display their Birkin bags, Van Cleef earrings, and Chanel outfits. Although the account is mostly about how the well-healed Palm Beach presents itself today, the area has been synonymous with luxury, elegance, and a unique design aesthetic for nearly a century. At More Wow, we understand that living in this beautiful region does not necessarily mean adhering strictly to a traditional Palm Beach style. Instead, we help our clients reference the evocative feelings and memories associated with this lifestyle while creating truly individualized spaces.
The Evolution of Palm Beach Design
The history of Palm Beach design is rich and multifaceted. Although Florida has some architectural legacy from when the state was a Spanish territory, the majority of architectural and interior design elements we recognize today, were not widely adopted or recognized until the early 20th century.
Hotel Ponce de Leon, St. Augustine
One of the most prominent contributors to this legacy was Addison Mizner, whose pink stucco walls, arched doorways, limestone accents, and intricate tile work set the stage for the luxurious homes we see today. Combining elements of some of the opulent architecture seen in buildings in St. Augustine and further north, Mizner's style, Mediterranean revival, took off in South Florida during the 20s and 30s. Today, the influence of Mizner can be felt throughout the region, with notable buildings such as the Flagler Museum and the Biltmore Hotel, still standing.
In addition to Mizner, the contributions of celebrities, socialites, and film stars have played a vital role in shaping Palm Beach’s design narrative. The glamorous homes of the Gilded Age, such as the opulent Breakers Hotel, have served as backdrops for numerous films and television shows, solidifying their status as cultural landmarks. The Breakers, with its stunning oceanfront views and stunning Italian Renaissance architecture, has hosted countless high-profile events and appeared in movies that highlight its grandeur and allure.
The Biltmore Hotel
The Impact of Film, TV, and Fashion
Palm Beach’s influence extends beyond architecture into the world of interior and outdoor design and fashion. Both fashion and set designers have embraced Palm Beach's signature palette—bright pinks, soft blues, and greens—that reflect tropical surroundings and coastal vistas.
Most recently, the Apple series Palm Royale highlights some of these design elements. In one memorable scene, the ladies of Palm Royale meet on a luxury pool patio featuring white iron dining tables, with green cushions, striped chaise lounge chairs, pink umbrellas, and matching cabanas. In another set, the Dellacorte mansion, there are deeper, more muted, less outlandish colors--jade, emerald, and accessories--stuffed birds, large plants, brass sconces, and, in one scene, a pair of brass swans.
Kristin Wig & Ricky Martin in Palm Royale
In addition to film, Palm Beach also has a rich history of couture and fabric design that reflects its glamorous past. The styles of the mid-20th century, characterized by light fabrics and bold prints, are reminiscent of the cocktail parties and social gatherings that define the Palm Beach lifestyle. Designers like Valentino, Oscar de la Rent and Carolina Herrera and fabric companies, such as Philipp Jeffries, have also crafted clothes and wallcoverings inspired by a Palm Beach coastal aesthetic.
More Wow’s Approach to Design in Palm Beach
At More Wow, we recognize that designing a Palm Beach design is not the same thing as a design for someone living in Palm Beach. While many clients enjoy the essence of Palm Beach style, they may not want to go all-in on a traditional aesthetic. Importantly, all of our projects are tailored specifically to our clients. We look to understand how our clients live and design spaces to evoke feelings without being tied to a single style. To do that, our approach often blends influences—whether it be a nod to vintage Palm Beach charm or a contemporary twist that reflects a client’s personality.
For instance, in a recent project where we designed a large "club room" for a client who had recently moved from the North to Palm Beach County. The client sought a transitional look while preserving a cherished oriental rug. We thoughtfully paired the rug with mid-century Parsons chairs, Maison Jansen mirrors, a show-stopping 1970s Willy Rizzo Burl table, an abundance of tropical plants, and two De Stijl Firenze sculptural birds. This combination created a harmonious space that combined heirloom pieces, with new vintage pieces and style elements that evoke the essence of Palm Beach living while remaining classy, inspired and thoughtful.
Embracing Innovation in Design
As Palm Beach evolves to welcome new types of residents, so does its design landscape. As a minority-owned business, More Wow also invites the opportunity to deconstruct traditional design in favor of exploration and experimentation. We also recognize the importance of cultural diversity in shaping new design narratives in Palm Beach. In particular, we're excited to bring elements of Latin American design into our work, drawing from its rich artistic traditions and vibrant aesthetics. Our collaborations with artists and galleries such as Chamula Hecho a Mano, Cerámica Suro, and MAIA Contemporary enable us to access unique art pieces that embody the spirit of Latin American design. Additionally, we source ultra-luxury furniture from renowned designers, ensuring that our projects reflect the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.
Celebrating Individuality in Palm Beach Living
In conclusion, the Palm Beach lifestyle is a tapestry woven from history, culture, and innovation. At More Wow, we are dedicated to helping our clients navigate this rich landscape, creating spaces that honor the past while embracing the future. Whether you're a newcomer to Palm Beach seeking your dream home or a developer looking to partner with capable designers, we are here to turn your vision into reality, ensuring your space is a true reflection of who you are. By focusing on personalized design solutions, leveraging our cultural insights, and embracing innovative trends, More Wow not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our discerning clientele.
If you’re ready to elevate your home design experience and create a space that truly reflects your unique style, contact More Wow today for a consultation.