In Living Color
AN ENCHANTING NAPLES RESPITE BLENDS THE PAST AND THE PRESENT .
By KELLY GRAY
I
t ’ s both a blessing and a curse , the constant flow of concepting and implementing designs . On one hand , it keeps business going strong , but there is little reprieve from the nonstop flurry of ideas . That ’ s why Wilfredo Emanuel ’ s home serves as both a blockade from the outside world and place for quiet reflection .
It ’ s no wonder that there was a time when Emanuel preferred an expanse of white space in his home , where he could effectively turn off those creative juices and be surrounded by the soothing nothingness . But as he evolved as an artist , life began to mirror art . And today , Emanuel ’ s home décor is a reflection of the designs he loves , paying homage to a life well-lived .
Often asked about his own favorite space , design influences , and meaningful items in his home , Emanuel says it ’ s a question he has often challenged himself to answer .
“ As a designer , you get to a point in your professional life where you can see your past immaturity , and for me , it was those years of that white canvas in my home ,” says Emanuel . “ I loved it , but still discovering who I was and what I could bring to the table .”
Determined to succeed and be inspirational to others , Emanuel grew into his own space . Eventually he began applying the same principles to his home that he brings to his clients .
“ The home reflects where you are going , what you are doing , and today I am a deeper person than I was before , and my home has changed along with me ,” says Emanuel , who was influenced by the architectural style of the house . “ Our style is a midcentury and contemporary vibe .”
Emanuel chose to make changes that didn ’ t require permits . It was a wise choice , since , as he says , a designer is his own worst client .
WE World 65 Winter 2022 / 23