Cover Balancing retro charm and geometric shapes in this interior by mr alex TATE design, featuring a maximalist design philosophy perfect for the summer
Balancing retro charm and geometric shapes in this interior by mr alex TATE design, featuring a maximalist design philosophy perfect for the summer
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Miami-based interior design firm Mr Alex Tate balances Victorian charm and vibrant maximalism when bringing spaces to life
Amid the pastel hues and minimalist routes of modern design, Alex Alonso of Miami-based design firm Mr Alex Tate stands out. “Eclectic maximalism has always been a part of me,” he says. “In recent decades, there’s been a void in designs that inspire and tell individual stories. But I’ve never ascribed to a one-note look when designing–both for myself and my clients.”
Alonso views an early trip to Europe as the catalyst for his unique design philosophy. “Paris created an immediate impression on me, what with its mix of old and new buildings flowing cohesively into each other,” he says. “I loved the juxtaposition of the history-laden with the design-forward.”
Since then, Alonso has pursued projects that feel “layered, curated and visually ‘full.’” He has developed the term ‘ModVic,’ infusing each modern space with the romantic elements of Victorian design. “The 19th century was an age of collecting ornamental treasures: gilded mirrors, Wedgwood knick-knacks and the like,” he says. “We wanted to highlight those theatrical yet refined elements in our projects today by encouraging everyone’s ‘collector’ side.”
Read on for Alonso’s tips for developing a unique design identity that can withstand any season.
More from Tatler: Inside La Nuvola, Julie Boschi’s seaside home shaped by time, tide and craft
Above Unexpectedly bold colours used in a bedroom by mr alex TATE design
Unexpectedly bold colours used in a bedroom by mr alex TATE design
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What holds people back most in embracing bold design, and how do you encourage them to break out of their comfort zones?
It's a fear of making a mistake. Many people believe there is just one way to design a space; if they don't find that one look, they feel unsuccessful. Indeed, some designs from 15 to 20 years ago haven’t held up, and remodelling a space is an investment. Social media also exposes you to other people’s designs, making you want a similar space to avoid taking risks. Ultimately, we embark on a collaborative design journey incorporating beautiful items at any price.
Your work embraces colours, textures and patterns. How do you ensure a space feels livable and cohesive, especially in a tropical climate (like the Philippines)?
Many great products today lean into an indoor-outdoor, multi-climate lifestyle, unlike 10 to 15 years ago. With greater access to global inspirations, people are more comfortable than ever with an eclectic mix of elements.
As summer returns, I'm leaning into abstract tropical and botanical motifs. I’m also interested in unexpectedly moody palettes including mauves, patinated ochres, weathered lichen and roasted aubergine.
Above Layering jewel tones with patterned wallpaper and chairs in a room by mr alex TATE
Above Exploring a mr alex TATE design, featuring elements of Asian design paired with geometric shelves
Layering jewel tones with patterned wallpaper and chairs in a room by mr alex TATE
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What role does natural light play when working with vibrant interiors, and how do you use it to enhance the energy of a space?
Modern design has been anchored in airy, open spaces that harness natural light. This perpetual quest for a golden California afternoon is not just a fad, but an awakening. But when you work with bolder colours, textiles and wallcoverings, you should be cognisant of how those elements look in an opposite lighting arrangement. You have to play with how natural light travels and how you supplement that luminosity during the darker hours.
Which Victorian-era design elements pair well with a tropical or coastal aesthetic?
The element of iterative repetition (taking an aspect of the design and repeating it throughout the space in a slightly different version) pairs well with coastal and tropical designs. We see it in floral prints and patterns in tropical rooms, as this adds a striking visual element.
Paisleys were prevalent in Victorian design, an interesting motif to explore in any contemporary space. For a coastal twist, I love layering a jute or seagrass rug under a more decorative, smaller one.
In case you missed it: Home tour: A charmingly renovated family home in St Albans, England
Bold jewel tones and silky textures in a bedroom designed by mr alex TATE
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How do you balance mixing heirloom or vintage pieces with contemporary design elements?
Just go for it–if it matters and you love it, it will work alongside elements of function and scale. I love being able to use a vintage piece in a new way. For a recent project, we used one of our client's family dressers as a powder vanity. The space was bold and a little over the top. The vintage “vanity” gave it a grounding element, even momentarily. The one rule I abide by is that whatever piece you bring in has to work beyond just an aesthetic level. This gives the vintage piece longevity and a purpose beyond the decorative.
Are there any foundational pieces—furniture or fabrics—that you recommend as a starting point for a home with character?
From a furniture perspective, tables and case goods are always a good place to start. They will always have a place in your home and can get moved around from room to room, so prioritise versatility.
For softer goods, a good wool rug is a great investment that grounds the space. A classic vintage pattern can be timeless and durable.
Lastly, custom drapery is a must. Because it occupies such a large visual area of a room, it can infuse a space with warmth, charm and personality.
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About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
