From Stay-at-Home Mom, to One of Los Angeles’ Most Sought-After Design Consultants
Bernadette Capellaro was watching a TV show with her children one day, when she found herself far too entertained.
“I decided I needed to find a career — pronto,” Bernadette says, laughing.
That was two decades ago. Since then, Bernadette has transitioned from stay-at-home mom in New York City, to one of the most sought-after design consultants at Cantoni in Los Angeles.
After that day with her two boys, Bernadette attended career night at Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she was wowed by the design department.
“It seemed like a perfect fit for me since I have always loved fashion and interior design,” says Bernadette, who enrolled shortly after and earned an interior design degree.
Bernadette’s later-in-life career change gives her a unique perspective on the design industry, which she has used to her advantage in working at both large retail stores and as a private consultant — focusing on traditional, mid-century modern and ultra-contemporary mediums.
“I was lucky to have family in the fashion industry and I was able to travel frequently,” she says. “It opened my eyes to many different cultures, customs, architecture, furniture and art.”
When her husband landed a new job in Los Angeles, they left New York City to be closer to the warmer weather — and of course, their children. With that said, Bernadette admits the design differences in New York City and Los Angeles are staggering.
“I did more traditional design in New York City, using many fabric combinations with elaborate window treatments,” she says. “Because of the change of seasons in the Northeast, I found that we did more slipcovers, which gave the client the option to completely change out the look of their upholstery.
“Warm, darker opulent fabrics for the winter months could easily be changed out in springtime to lighter weight cloths and throw pillows could easily be changed out with new casings — very versatile and never boring!”
According to her clients in Los Angeles, Bernadette has earned a reputation among Hollywood’s elite for her creative space planning, pattern harmony, and exceptional use of color and light. She uses her interest in photography to achieve this balance.
“Her extraordinary attention to detail translates to her personal style — she emphasizes elegance,” one of them told us.
Meanwhile, Bernadette says she’s currently most excited about a soon-to-be-completed project in the Trousdale Estates area of Beverly Hills, as well exclusive arrivals at Cantoni she can’t wait to integrate into her work.
“I love our new McQueen sectional by Gamma and Fashion Affair Collection by Malerba,” she says. “Both are striking and need to be seen up close to appreciate the beauty and true craftsmanship.”
When she’s not working, you can find Bernadette entertaining at home or spending the day on the beach relaxing and recharging — a far cry from her days in New York City.
“I love Hermosa Beach because it’s a small, laid-back beach town with one of the most gorgeous beaches around!” she says. “You know you’re an interior designer when you always seek beauty.”
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