Designer Spotlight: Alexandra Aquadro

We are so happy to share the designs of Alexandra Aquadro in our Designer Spotlight series. Alexandra has a love of design that has been a part of her since childhood. She is a gem in the local design community. Get to know Alex.

What inspired you to enter the world of interior design?

Inspiration for design began at an early age; I grew up in an antique home filled with wide plank floor boards and a beehive oven.  I would frequently find paint and fabric samples as my parents worked room by room to renovate our historic home.  

My family says that my first clients were my American Girl Dolls.  I spent hours creating custom accessories and decor, whether it was a hand-sewn pillow with lace trim or a festive garland for the holidays.  My biggest design thrill was when I selected my bedroom wallpaper in the fourth grade, the cheerful yellow and floral pattern still lines the walls today.  

Tell us about your journey to get where you are.

I set out with the intention to become an architect, but after working for an architecture/design firm, I discovered that I was more interested in interiors.  

After graduating from Hobart & William Smith Colleges, with a focus in Architecture, Art History, and Studio Art, I worked with an interior designer in Cambridge, MA.  I also began AGA Design Blog, a self-published blog devoted to all things that inspire related to interior design, art, and fashion.  This was my first opportunity to creatively share my passion for design with others.  

With additional experience in publishing and textiles, I took the leap to start my own firm in 2014.  My passion for art, color, and pattern allowed the process to come naturally.  Each project is a new adventure and there is nothing better than watching an unloved space become a home.   

How would you describe your personal style?

My biggest style influence is my mom and her background in fashion; from an early age, she taught me the importance of classic, tailored, and timeless design.  Whether I am selecting a blazer for a fall outfit or an English arm sofa for a family room, I find that there are many similarities between my clothing and home-style choices.  

My style is also influenced by nature.  The seaside is my happy place, so I typically favor palettes filled with warm neutrals, cream, blue, and aqua.  I feel that these color pairings create inviting and comfortable spaces.  

When it comes to kitchen design, what are your top 3 most important design elements?

First, seating.  I design each kitchen with the idea that it is the heart of the home.  

Kitchens need counter seating, a breakfast nook, or a sitting area.  This stems from my family’s gatherings, which always include over scale charcuterie boards and wine at the kitchen island.  

Second, a large sink at a window.  I tend to make this the focal point of the kitchen and it also serves as a great view.  Growing up, we had a double sink at a window overlooking the backyard.  I have memories of watching the landscape change from fresh chartreuse blooms in the springtime to snowy blues in the wintertime.  

Three, ample storage. I hate clutter and organization makes everything easier!   

What is your favorite part of the design process?

My favorite part of a project is the beginning and end.  My fiancé says that he can always tell when I return from a preliminary meeting.  I am giddy and bursting with ideas.  This is when creativity is in full force and project mood boards come to life.  

In the end, watching happy clients enjoy their home is the cherry on top.  

If you were moving to a yurt in the woods and could only take one kitchen gadget – what would it be?

As my uncle says, “keep it simple stupid.”  I am not one for the latest gadgets and this or that.  For this reason, I use very few gadgets in my kitchen.   My nutri-bullet is an exception though. 

CONTACT INFO: 

AGA Design is a Boston based interior design firm, specializing in residential design for the greater Boston area and the Cape & Islands.  Follow AGA Design, Alexandra G Aquadro www.againteriordesign.com @aga.interiordesign by phone: 413-695-8650 and by email: alexandra@againteriordesign.com

Meet the other designers in our Designer Spotlight series.

Kelly Rogers | Christina Wikman | Laurie Soave

Need inspiration? Visit one of our showrooms and get started on bringing your dream kitchen to life.