Cover The unexpected colour combination draws the eye into the living room of a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Alex Tate
The unexpected colour combination draws the eye into the living room of a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Alex Tate
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Step inside a tropical oasis designed by Alex Alonso of Mr Alex Tate in Florida, an expansive space paying homage to the American artist Orville Bulman while maintaining its own eclectic, modern charm
Living in a historic home is no ordinary feat; it requires a deep sensitivity to the layers of time and memory embedded in such a space. That level of devotion immediately stood out to Alex Alonso of Mr Alex Tate, the designer who revamped artist Orville Bulman’s home in the heart of Palm Beach, Florida. Bulman’s paintings featured whimsical scenes of tropical life, inspired by his time in Haiti.
That Bulman lived here from the home’s construction until his passing in 1978 leaves an indelible mark, distilled into Alonso's responsibility to “pay homage to such lively spaces that reflected a design-forward, creative environment” for its new homeowners. As they celebrate Florida’s waterfront lifestyle with joyful colours and playful textures, Alonso's goal was to weave the charm of Bulman’s legacy throughout the Florida home while embodying his ethos of “fearless curation.”
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Above A seamless connection to the outdoors in a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
Above The interplay of unexpected elements in a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
A seamless connection to the outdoors in a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
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Upon entering the property, one is captivated by the rare advantage of sprawling Atlantic views on the northern and western sides. The home has a distinct U-shaped layout anchored on a central courtyard, while a lanai and pool area invite guests to lounge with glee. Within the home, one’s eye is captured by the Murano glass chandelier and the iconic palm motif lining the walls, creating a tropical wonderland throughout the year.
On the left wing, the kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining area and family room, creating a seamless space for large gatherings with family and friends. Off the dining room, a wonderful covered deck sets the stage for spectacular sunset views.
Above The playful textures of the living room in a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
The playful textures of the living room in a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
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Among all the rooms, the living room is the most special for Alonso; his favourite design moment was creating the trellis on the ceiling. “I always love doing something fun with the ceiling of a home,” Alonso shared, spotlighting an often-underrepresented design element. While wallpapers were undeniable steps forward, Tate kept returning to the trellis idea until he found the ideal spot for it to truly stand out.
The original space had one pendant light in the centre, which was immediately swapped out for two curved vintage sofas from the 1970s. The room was thus anchored by a larger brass and glass table in the centre and two vintage Hoffman chandeliers to complete the composition. Paired with the serene swans gliding across the wallpaper, the living room establishes a unique design story that matches the views of both the waterline and the front courtyard.
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The lounge in a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
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Alonso is known for his explosive colour combinations, laying different patterns and textures in ways that create unforgettable memories. “I like rooms to feel curated and to have moments that make you lean into the design," Alonso explained. "This is where the details really shine." In the wine room, for instance, suede wallcovering on the ceiling pairs well with the diffused lighting to create an elegant atmosphere.
“My general design philosophy centres around creative narrative spaces that feel as if they have been assembled over years, yet can be viewed as timeless," Alonso said. This was true enough for the Florida home, which took four years to put together. “I also believe that design should be eclectic as I pair otherwise unexpected elements.”
The primary bedroom in a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
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Moving into the more private areas of the home, the enchanting primary bedroom has 360-degree views of the evolving Florida landscape. The space’s green striped wallpaper adds geometric contrast to the birds of paradise lining the curtains. The glimpses of woven material and brass hardware complete the image of a tropical oasis, creating a serene space to unwind in after a long day.
Above Waterfront views from the outdoor lounge of a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
Waterfront views from the outdoor lounge of a maximalist, eclectic Florida home designed by Mr Alex Tate
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Altogether, Alex Alonso has created a lasting achievement through this Florida home. All at once an homage to a notable American painter, a reflection of modern Floridian style, and a charming getaway, the home is a lush, vibrant space that will evolve through the years. The creative energy that once permeated Orville Bulman’s paintings now takes on new life through the surprising harmony of discrete elements, featuring tropical motifs infused with genuine delight.
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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.
