Tackling the design of the Palm Beach Gardens home she shares with her husband and sons wasn’t exactly a breeze for Amy Lee McArdle, but she persevered and emerged victorious with a residence that nods to Korean design principles with a timeless, modern aesthetic and just the right dose of French flair.
Many designers struggle with all the possibilities and decisions that come with designing one’s own home. Was that the case for you?
It was a challenge. I typically make decisions quickly for clients, but with my own home I second-guessed everything. I redesigned the kitchen 12 times! It was humbling and emotional because every choice felt personal.
What was your overall intent with the design?
To create a home that would feel modern yet timeless, warm rather than stark, and deeply personal while blending global influences with meaningful history. I wanted a space that flows, breathes, and reflects both our family and my design philosophy.
What can you tell us about the color palette you opted for?
It’s soft and neutral with warm whites, natural woods, stone, and earthy tones chosen to evoke calm, serenity, and timelessness rather than trend-driven contrast.
How did you handle textures?
With a layered approach that combines natural textures like stone, wood, plaster, soft linens, and organic finishes to bring depth and quiet warmth. Every texture was selected to feel lived-in, grounded, and tactile.
Your furniture selection feels very intentional. How did you approach that selection process?
It’s a mix of custom pieces and curated vintage finds, including clean, modern silhouettes paired with storied pieces for balance. Comfort and restraint guided every selection. To your point, I wanted the rooms to feel intentional, not over-designed.
Where did you land with illumination?
Soft, layered lighting using sculptural fixtures, warm tones, and indirect illumination to create a gentle ambiance, dramatic where needed but always serene and atmospheric.
Where did you source from as far as ornamentation and details go?
Antique markets in Paris. Heavily from Verellen for our formal living room as I appreciate their take on modern design. Alexander Woodworking did all the custom millwork. And there are some meaningful personal heirlooms, like an antique apothecary chest from my childhood home.
Looking back, what were you like as a client?
Both a dream and a challenge. I held myself to a higher standard than I do anyone else. It required patience, intuition, and constant editing.
How do you feel about the finished product?
It feels like home. It’s peaceful, meaningful, and reflective of who we are. The house truly supports how we live, and that’s been the greatest reward.
Story Credits:
Text bu Florian Jouin
Photography by Stephen Paul
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