The September Issue
Updated: 6 hours ago
“September always feels like the beginning of a new term, leaving us feeling refreshed and ready for action. This year we are diving into new projects and some incredible new locations.” - Tara Bernerd
September marks a moment of renewed energy at Tara Bernerd & Partners. Across the studio, new projects are beginning, others are taking shape on site and longstanding creative partnerships continue to evolve.
This month, we look at the people, places and ideas behind our work, from Charleston to Singapore, Milan and beyond. Together, they reflect something fundamental to the way we work: an enduring curiosity about people and place, a belief in collaboration and a commitment to creating work with individuality and longevity. |
Our Projects |
Charleston
We are delighted to be working on a new project in Charleston, South Carolina. Rich in history, architecture and character, the city offers a fascinating setting for the studio’s latest project in the US. Still very much under wraps, we look forward to revealing more in the months ahead. |
The Hari Singapore
The Hari Singapore is rapidly taking shape ahead of its opening in January 2027. Marking the latest chapter in our longstanding collaboration with Harilela Hotels, the 326-bedroom hotel evolves the distinctive design language established for The Hari whilst responding to Singapore’s architecture, tropical climate and cosmopolitan character.
A Detail from Six Senses Milan
As work continues on Six Senses Milan, here’s a look at a detail from one of the bookcases in the lobby.
The contrasting marbles of the fireplace surround take their lead from the interplay of stones on the floor, complemented by the calm simplicity of the bookcase above.
For now, just a glimpse. More to come.
Our People
Two-by-Two:
Sophie and Francesco
Behind each of our projects is a team of designers bringing different perspectives, experiences and ideas to the studio.
This month, we sit down with Directors Sophie Deeley and Francesco Baiera, whose work has taken them from Mexico and Miami to Marbella, Milan and New York, to talk projects, places and what they have learnt along the way.
What are you currently working on:
Sophie: I’ve just restarted work on the design concepts for a hotel project in Marbella, which is very exciting. We’re designing all the guestrooms and public areas for this new-build resort and it’s lovely to be diving back into it.
I’m also working closely with my teams on a handful of luxury residential developments across South Florida. In Miami Beach, we’re on site with construction in full swing for completion in 2027, alongside projects in West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, all of which are at different and exciting stages of development.
Francesco: My last year has been mostly focused on a luxury residential development in Manhattan. With its fast-paced energy and sophisticated audience, it’s always a great challenge and a privilege to design in New York. Ultimately, it pushes you to raise the bar of your work to new levels.
I’m now also overseeing the development of our collaborations in furniture and homeware, looking to establish long-term relationships with like-minded brands.
Your projects have taken you from Mexico and Miami to Marbella, Milan and New York. When you first arrive somewhere new, what are you looking for?
Francesco: I’m always alert to the elements that will root our project in its location and create that sense of belonging we’re looking for. At the same time, I want to understand how a place is evolving and its vision for the future, so that our work can become part of that evolution.
Sophie: Of course, similar to Francesco, it’s about understanding all of those local subtleties that help to inform our designs, from the design landscape to the people, the vibe and the culture and considering which elements we want to draw upon to make the project a dream destination for our target guests or owners.
From a site perspective, it’s about understanding where the best views are, how we want to guide guests through the space, where I want to be sitting with my morning coffee or enjoying a sundowner cocktail, and how we can really draw out the best of each location to curate the very best lifestyle experience.
Quick-fire
City or coast?
Sophie: Can I have the mountains please?
Francesco: City
Vintage or contemporary?
Sophie: Vintage & Contemporary, mix the best of both for that timeless curation.
Francesco: Contemporary
Sketchbook or screen?
Sophie: Screen
Francesco: Sketchbook
Our Partners
Behind the Interior: Medea 1905 by Tara Bernerd
Our collaboration with Medea 1905 brings together the Italian furniture maker’s longstanding tradition of craftsmanship with Tara’s contemporary approach to form, materiality and living. From the original capsule collection to the latest pieces created for The Medea House in Milan, the partnership has grown into an evolving family of furniture.
The versatility of the Marlene Bench is typical of this design ethos, allowing it to sit effortlessly within a variety of settings. Fully customisable, here its rich walnut frame is paired with terracotta orange upholstery and crisp white piping, lending a warmer note for autumn.
Autumn at Frette
The versatility of Tara’s collection for Frette continues to reveal itself with a new palette of colours for the Modernism and Deco throws and cushions.
Shades of forest green and rich terracotta coordinate beautifully with tan and cream, bringing a warmer character to the core collection whilst retaining the graphic quality of the original designs.
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