Alessandra Branca's Tips for Decorating in the Tropics

Alessandra Branca's Tips for Decorating in the Tropics

























(All photos: Douglas Friedman / Lonny)
International tastemaker and interior designer Alessandra Branca is more than equipped to decorate for all climates: with homes in Chicago, Manhattan, Rome, and the Caribbean, she has had to take into consideration sun, snow, and all weather-related eventualities in between—and has done so in style. Tasked with decorating a waterfront home on pink sand-shrouded Harbour Island, Branca considered the elements before anything else, choosing wear-and-tear-friendly cement tiling for many of the floors, pre-worn driftwood-esque panels for the living room walls, and washable slipcovers in lieu of upholstery. Herewith, her top tips for decorating in the tropics.

Alessandra Branca's Tips for Decorating in the Tropics





















Welcome Window Treatments

“It’s all about managing light—it can ruin everything you have. Blinds are a must.”

Alessandra Branca's Tips for Decorating in the Tropics








































Consider Utilitarian Materials
“We used concrete tile in the kitchen—it’s practical and cool on your feet.”

Alessandra Branca's Tips for Decorating in the Tropics





















Go Natural

“Wicker is wonderful for outdoor furniture because it breathes. If it gets banged up, switch out the cushions.”

Alessandra Branca's Tips for Decorating in the Tropics





































Design for Easy Cleaning
“I encourage people to use slipcovers always.”
I'm the former Style Editor at Lonny.
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