Known for her portfolio of custom residences and estates, Chris Barrett’s unique vision has been well matched to the varied lifestyles of her clientele, always with care and passion. Her work includes a Spanish Colonial residence in La Jolla, California, a Tudor in Hancock Park, a villa in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and numerous other high profile projects. She has also taken on a wide range of commercial assignments, boutique hotels and restaurants.

Who gave you your "big" break in the design business? Did you have a mentor?

Mine was a slow rise. My biggest break came from Paulette Rapp. She worked for Jerry Moss at A+M Records. She hired me to do Jerry’s office. I did a lot of work for him after that project.

What qualities do you think are important to become a successful designer?

Listening, communicating and an innate sense of style.

Has your design aesthetic changed over the years? If so, how?

Over the years I have evolved to a much cleaner aesthetic. I like simple beauty.

What is your non-negotiable in accepting a design job?

I have to sense the client will listen. Usually I can tell but I’ve been wrong a
couple times!

Why did you choose those pieces as your favorites from LUCCA inventory?

I love the simplicity in all of them. I tend to mix styles and pieces like these make it possible. I’ve used the chandelier in a two story entry and it was stunning. I’ve used similar carts in large spaces for firewood or outdoors for towels. I love finding sculpture pieces that are affordable to use on table tops and bookshelves. I could fill an entire home with Lucca pieces.