In the heart of Miami’s Design District, Bea Pernia is redefining how we experience interior design. As the founder of BEA Interiors Design, an internationally recognized firm—established in 2012—Pernia has cultivated a multidisciplinary creative studio known for innovation, excellence, and pushing the boundaries of what interiors can be.
Born in Los Angeles and raised in Caracas, Pernia’s design philosophy and approach is deeply rooted in her Venezuelan upbringing, where she was surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that shaped her appreciation for texture, movement, and balance. Her work reflects a deep connection to nature and a passion for raw materials, allowing her to develop a distinctive style that blends organic forms with sculptural elements—creating spaces that feel natural, modern, and timeless.
Whether she’s designing a private luxury residence, a hospitality concept, or a custom furniture piece, she aims to evoke emotion, support well-being, and create harmony between people and their environment. Bea has gained recognition for blurring the line between art and functionality, often experimenting with natural woods, rich textiles, leather, metal, and reflective surfaces.
“In Venezuela, whether you’re on the beach or in the mountains or in the city, you’re always surrounded by great views. That became very important to me. Now, through my designs if you don’t have a great view, I will create one.”
In addition to being a designer, Bea is an award-winning singer, and she DJs in her spare time
Each of her projects becomes a canvas for exploring contrast, texture, and shape—crafting interiors that are refined, sensory, and deeply personal. Her growing portfolio includes high-end homes, hotels, restaurants, and custom product and furniture design that reflects her artistic sensibility and vision for clean, modern living.
Since 2012, Bea has designed and furnished multimillion-dollar private homes, condominiums, boutique hotels, commercial spaces, and hospitality concepts. Though based in South Florida, her work spans across the U.S. and the Caribbean.
Her breakthrough came in 2017 when her sculptural furniture piece, 'Circle of Trust', gained recognition. The piece was not only featured in Art Basel that year at the contemporary art auction, Anónimo, hosted at the Bass Museum of Art as part of Art Miami. This milestone set the foundation for following designs to the features in the prestigious art event and for a growing design business, leading to collaborations with architects, artists, and craftspeople who share her vision.
"Circle of Trust’ gave me the confidence to push boundaries and solidified my passion for creating functional sculptures—pieces that are not just furniture but experiences.”
Since then, Pernia has continued pushing boundaries, merging architecture and interiors in immersive and meaningful ways. Her portfolio includes high-end residences, commercial spaces, and boutique hospitality projects, including the award-winning sushi restaurant Hiyakawa and the eco-conscious Roc Hotel Tulum.
Hiyakawa Restaurant is a hospitality project by Miami-based interior designer Bea Pernia
She has also won many accolades since starting her business, including the Muse Design Awards, Loop Design Awards and Build Architecture Awards. Beyond the creative side, Pernia is also a strategic entrepreneur, balancing her bold artistic vision with smart business decisions that allow her firm to take on multimillion-dollar projects while maintaining quality and innovation.
Bea Pernia designed the recently opened Roc Luxe Hotel in Tulum, Quintana Roo on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.
Over the years, BEA Interiors Design has grown into a team of talented designers, inspired by Pernia’s leadership and her ability to create spaces that are visually compelling and emotionally grounded in natural elements.
!HOLA! U.S. had the opportunity to ask Bea Pernia about her creative process, her biggest influences, and what it takes to run a design business. She shared stories about what shaped her approach, her experiences working in Miami, and, of course, her beloved Chief Motivational Officer—Rufus the Goldendoodle, who keeps the studio lively and inspired.
Bea Pernia of BEA Interiors Design with her dog Rufus
What inspired you to start BEA Interiors Design, and how did your vision evolve over the years?
Bea Interiors Design was born out of a deep passion for craftsmanship, natural materials, and the ability to transform spaces into immersive, sensory experiences and even music. From the beginning, my vision was to create designs that blend functionality with artistry—spaces that feel organic yet sophisticated, timeless yet innovative.
Over the years, the vision has evolved by embracing new textures and sustainable materials and pushing the boundaries of what interior design can achieve. Collaborating with artisans, experimenting with sculptural elements, and integrating nature into interiors have all shaped the aesthetic. The goal has always been to design spaces that not only look beautiful but also evoke emotion and tell a story.
Bea: "My vision with Crudos Art House was to bring people together in an atmosphere that would connect them with emotions, art, fun, cuisine and music, making a multi sensorial and interactive space for diners."
Growing up in Venezuela and around diverse landscapes, how did those experiences shape your approach to design?
Its breathtaking landscapes, from lush forests to beautiful coastlines and towering mountains, give me a deep appreciation for nature’s textures, colors, and organic forms.
This connection to the environment has profoundly influenced my design philosophy. The contrast between raw, untouched beauty and refined craftsmanship inspires me to blend organic materials like wood, stone, and metals with contemporary forms.
I also embrace the movement of water in my designs. My goal is to create spaces that feel grounded, harmonious, and deeply connected to the natural world, just like the landscapes that shaped me.
Your debut furniture design, “Circle of Trust,” made waves at Art Basel 2017. How did that milestone influence your career?
“Circle of Trust” was my first piece showcased during Art Basel 2017, it gave me the confidence to push boundaries and solidified my passion for creating functional sculptures pieces that are not just furniture but experiences. That milestone opened doors to collaborations with artists, designers and architects who share my vision for craftsmanship and innovation.
It also reinforced my belief that design should evoke feelings, tell stories, and create connections. Since then, I’ve continued to explore new materials, experiment with forms, and blur the line between furniture and art, always staying true to my organic, sculptural approach.
Bea Pernia's furniture design often include materials like stone, fabrics, leather and wood.
What have been your most fulfilling projects, from residential homes to iconic hospitality projects like Hiyakawa and the Roc Hotel Tulum? Or a favorite project that made you think, “This is why I became a designer”?
Every project I take on has a unique story, but there are a few that truly reaffirm why I became a designer. Hiyakawa, for example, was an incredibly fulfilling project because it allowed me to create a space that feels like a sanctuary where design, the craftsmanship, and atmosphere come together in perfect harmony. The use of curved wood forms and soft and indirect light made it more than just a restaurant; it became an immersive experience.
Another standout is the Roc Hotel in Tulum. Being able to design a hospitality space in such a raw, beautiful environment challenged me to honor nature with a sculptural Giant Duomo. I was able to collaborate with local artisans to create stunning designs. I love projects where the surroundings become part of the design, and this one was about balance, between luxury and sustainability.
Ultimately, the Nader Sculptural will be in the design district. Working closely with the visionary Gary Nader to celebrate renowned artists’ Sculptural work. Providing a great landscape layout. And fulfilling moments that come when people walk into a space I’ve designed and immediately feel something. That’s when I knew I was doing what I was meant to do.
Bea worked with Gary Nader to honor renowned artists’ Sculptural work (like Botero) at the Nader Sculpture park in Miami
Managing multimillion-dollar projects requires more than creativity—it demands strong business acumen. How do you approach balancing the creative and operational sides of your firm?
Balancing creativity and business is an art in itself. I’ve always believed that great design is only possible when there’s a strong foundation of structure and strategy behind it. Running a design firm means wearing many hats—I have to be both the visionary and the decision-maker, ensuring that every project stays on budget, on schedule, and aligned with the client’s expectations. To maintain this balance, I surround myself with a strong team that complements my strengths.
While I focus on the creative direction, material selection, and design innovation, I also work closely with project managers, contractors, and financial experts to ensure seamless execution. Communication is key both internally and with clients to keep everything running smoothly. At the end of the day, I see the business side as another form of design. It’s about structuring a process that allows creativity to flow while ensuring that every detail, from sourcing to installation, is meticulously planned.
"Business credit cards help streamline day-to-day expenses while also offering rewards that benefit the firm for travel, purchases, or operational costs.”
Bea Pernia interior designer and business owner based in Miami's Design District
Talking about business, how have tools like business credit cards, loans, or lines of credit played a role in funding large projects or scaling your business?
Financing is a crucial part of growing a design firm, especially when handling large-scale projects that require upfront investments in materials, artisans, and logistics. Business credit cards, loans, and lines of credit have been essential tools in managing cash flow, funding expansions, and maintaining flexibility.
For instance, lines of credit allow me to take on ambitious projects and provide the liquidity needed to secure high-quality materials, pay skilled craftsmen, and keep projects moving efficiently. Business credit cards help streamline day-to-day expenses while also offering rewards that benefit the firm for travel, purchases, or operational costs.
Like design, business growth requires structure, planning, and the right financial resources.
What motivates and inspires you to take risks and push boundaries in the design world, even when the outcome is uncertain?
For me, design is about evolution, about constantly challenging what’s possible and creating something that hasn’t been seen or felt before. What motivates me to take risks is the belief that true innovation comes from stepping outside of my comfort zone. If I stay within the expected, I’m not growing, and neither is my work.
Every bold idea comes with uncertainty, but that’s what makes it exciting. The moment a concept takes shape could be through a sculptural piece of furniture, a space that evokes emotion, or a new material combination that just works; that’s when I know the risk was worth it—embracing the unknown with confidence.
Bea Pernia has built a business founded on her passion for design and nature
"Like design, business growth requires structure, planning, and the right financial resources."
What advice would you give young entrepreneurs, particularly those in creative industries, about building a brand from the ground up?
My biggest advice is to stay true to your vision while being adaptable. Authenticity is everything. Your design style, your perspective, and your story are what set you apart, so don’t chase trends—create your own.
At the same time, building a brand requires more than just creativity. You have to think like a business owner and learn about operations, marketing, and finance. Invest in relationships because your network will open doors. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, and never be afraid to ask for guidance from mentors. Consistency is key. Every project, every collaboration, and every detail should reflect your brand’s identity.
Bea Pernia created an award winning interior design firm offering residential design, commercial design, and remodeling services.
Miami’s Design District is such a vibrant hub. How has being based there influenced your work and your business?
It has been incredibly inspiring and great to shape my work. The district is a melting pot of creativity, where art, fashion, and architecture meet. It is constantly pushing me to innovate and think beyond traditional design norms.
Rufus, your Goldendoodle was named the “CMO” of BEA Interiors Design. Tell us about him and how he performs his role?
Rufus is more than just our Chief Motivator Officer. He’s the heart of the studio! He brings so much joy, energy, and creativity to the team (even if his main job is napping in the sun or greeting clients with enthusiasm). His role? Keeping the vibe light and inspiring.
Rufus, Chief Motivator Officer of Bea Interior Design
If you could design a dream space or furniture piece for any historical figure, who would it be, and what would it look like?
I would love to design a space for Zaha Hadid, and even though she was an architect, her visionary approach to fluid, sculptural forms aligns so much with my own design philosophy. I imagine creating a sanctuary that blends organic materials with futuristic shapes, something that feels both grounded in nature and completely ahead of its time.
I’d use natural stone, warm woods, and soft, organic upholstery; all contrasted with bold, structural elements. Lighting would play a huge role, ambient glows that highlight movement and texture, creating an immersive experience.
"Every bold idea comes with uncertainty, but that’s what makes it exciting."
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