Decorating & Design
Designer Spotlight: Carmen René Smith On The Power Of Maximalism
Published on March 18, 2021
Freedom lives in maximalism — at least according to Oakland-based designer Carmen René Smith. Her bold, culturally-rich and curated portfolio as principal designer of Aquilo Interiors is as captivating as it is rule-breaking. “I’m drawn to eclectic and layered style because there is freedom in doing what goes beyond the barriers of traditional design,” she says. “I like the unexpected, fun and fearless.” Named one of Apartment Therapy‘s Design Changemakers to Know in 2020, Carmen’s maximalist approach is paying off in big ways. She’s acquired clients across the globe and celebrates a decade in the business this year.
A former student of California College of the Arts, Carmen’s work combines the functionality of her background in architecture with an innovative flair. Scroll down to see how her passion for maximalism comes to life in a North Beach, San Francisco, small space.
“My creativity is driven by the desires of my clients,” says Carmen. “I begin by identifying what it is that most excites them and merge that with my design perspective in order to create something truly unique.” For Carmen, it’s about creating a comfortable and therapeutic design process, so her clients don’t feel intimated to unleash their creativity. “I think we all have more courage and fearlessness than we let on,” says Carmen. “I lead with the idea that we can do anything (stylistically) and be super creative without limits — it’s all about trusting in the process.”
Carmen often layers multiple statement pieces together for an eye-catching look. “Whether an accent or the main attraction, as long as you have at least one item that really makes people think, then you’re on the right track,” she says. This faux-hyde rug and oversized sculpted wood side table are perfect examples.
A velvet chair by Interior Define adds a touch of playfulness and contrast to the living room’s moody palette. “We have such deep, bold and warm layers in this space that it just felt right to have a pop of bright velvety mustard yellow as an accent,” says Carmen. “The room was quite small so it was important to find something fun, cozy and compact!”
“From graffiti to fine photography, my client loves art,” says Carmen, on her decorating choices in the principal bedroom. “Since we decided on a gorgeous fine art piece above the bed, it felt like the perfect opportunity for juxtaposition with the Benton Art & Design pop-art graphic pillow that spoke the same body language.”
Swap out paint for a patterned statement wall. “My client absolutely loves animal print, so this Ebern Designs Peafowl wallpaper was a must.”
“When I think about the legacy I’d like to bring to the world of interior design, I just want to continue creating from my heart and from my joy,” says Carmen. “I hope that in doing so I am able to connect deeply with other humans who enjoy the quirky, soulful, fantasy-like designs I create.”
Meghan Caudill (interiors); Darren Ankenbauer (headshot)
Carmen René Smith, Aquilo Interiors