After two decades of crafting extraordinary interiors for luxury residential and yacht clients, my passion for design has taken an exciting new direction. As the founder and creative director of Bottega Brio, I’ve expanded my expertise beyond interiors to develop a curated line of bespoke furniture, lighting, and décor. Bottega Brio was born from my desire to create unique, high-quality pieces that elevate spaces—and to support fellow artisans and craftspeople by showcasing their work to the world.My journey in design has always been about more than just aesthetics; it’s about understanding how spaces function, how materials perform, and how the right combination of elements can transform an environment. With a Bachelor of Science in Design, an MBA, and a Master of Fine Arts in furniture design, I’ve spent years honing my craft. My experience in yacht interiors—where every detail matters and custom solutions are a necessity—laid the foundation for my work at Bottega Brio.Bottega Brio is a natural evolution in my career. We not only offer our own line of bespoke, artisan-crafted furniture and lighting but also represent a range of luxury brands in textiles, wallcoverings, decorative accessories, rugs, and bespoke surfaces. Our focus is on offering designers and architects a one-stop resource for high-end, customizable pieces that meet the most discerning standards.I’m excited to continue collaborating with the design community—whether through our exclusive products or by connecting fellow designers with the talented makers and artisans we represent. Bottega Brio is more than just a brand; it’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of designing boldly.

Founded by Suzanne Connor, licensed Interior Designer, Casatopia practices interior architecture and design. Current projects include new-construction residences, remodels, and investment properties. The role of an interior designer is to harmonize the project goals, desires of each family member, and seamlessly communicate with the builder and master craftsmen. Casatopia’s interiors blur the line between indoors and out. We are often asked to fuse the vacation mentality with a hint of sophistication. Our interiors are distinctive, comfortable, and livable.Suzanne couples her Master of Fine Arts in Design with an Master of Business Administration to refine each project. Design Intelligence is the value-added benefit, evident in each project’s completion. From custom furniture to completely built-in spaces and flawlessly orchestrated project management, Casatopia is the premier choice for the design and technical parameters of your next project.

A La Mer, Inc. is a boutique design firm specializing in yacht & residential interiors, architecture, general contracting, and custom furniture design.

Responsibilities included:• Management of up to eight team members of varying disciplines• Conceptual design and design development of interior, remodel and renovation projects• Creation and presentation of design concept• Programming• Selection and specification of interior finishes, furniture and equipment• Reviewed pricing, materials and value engineering for projects• Produced space plans, furniture plans, elevations, and conceptual and finished design presentations• Incorporated applicable building code and ADA code compliance regulations• Provided solutions to design problems and generated design alternatives• Reviewed drawings and prepared documentation for shopping mall submittals • Delivered the highest quality of professional service, anticipating clients’ needs, and researched each client’s competition to fully develop competitive designs• Completed several domestic and international retail interiors within shopping centers, gaming centers, and airports. One example of a completed international project includes the designs for three spaces within The Grande Canal Shoppes at the Venetian Hotel and Casino on the Cotai Strip in Macau, China. These spaces were designed and open for business in eight months.

Yacht interiors require a vivid imagination and ability to maximize compact and unusual spaces.Over 75% of a yacht interior is custom design. Every square inch is built-in, requiring intricate detailing, weight reduction, and maximum efficiencies of material usage.• Assessed client needs, drafted proposals and contracts, completed construction documents, and selected fabrics and finishes for a wide range of clients and project types.• Planned and implemented projects from conceptualization to successful completion.• Turn-key and staging services performed for yachts being sold at the Ft. Lauderdale nternational Boat Show. Organization and success rate created additive business each year, totaling over $200 Million dollars worth of yachts utilizing this service.• Exceptional time management and candor with high-end, celebrity clientele proved to be an essential attribute.

Smith Group was instrumental in the start of my career as an Interior Designer. As an intern, I was pulled in many directions and learned a great deal from these wonderful professionals.