Meet Rosario Camarasa | Owner of Rada Design

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rosario Camarasa and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rosario, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Having an upholstery business has been a deeply stimulating journey for us, who own a metalworking industry in our home country. This type of enterprise is inherently creative and fosters strong connections within the community, as people entrust us with their cherished pieces to breathe new life into them. The process begins with selecting a piece of furniture that has been a part of the home for years, sourced from antique shops or second-hand markets, or even custom-designed for a special space in a home, hotel, restaurant, etc. In carrying out this task, we employ ancient artisanal techniques that ensure the quality of our craftsmanship, simultaneously reclaiming its value. Furthermore, we aim to combat the culture of disposability, which wreaks havoc on both society and the planet.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Since I was young, I knew that imagination, creativity, and curiosity would lead me down diverse paths where commitment to a single profession wouldn’t be enough. My first degree was in Fine Arts, where I experimented with various artistic techniques, studied art history, and developed a deep interest in Psychology. For years, I dedicated myself to working in Collage and had a venture where I made jewelry using papers, fabrics, and all kinds of antique materials to create one-of-a-kind pendants with very personal images and phrases.

After living in the United States for several years, I returned to my country to study Psychoanalysis, where I graduated as a psychologist and specialized in Psychoanalysis with children. I w orked in a hospital, had a private practice, tought at my university and conducted research in early childhood. When my children reached a certain age, my husband, who owns a metalworking industry and also pursued a career as a musician and sculptor, and I decided it was a good time to move to the United States. We wanted our children to have an educational experience in an environmentally conscious school and to learn English fluently, preparing them for the future in a country that offers so many opportunities.

That’s how we began searching for a business to purchase as investors. Among the few options available, we found Rada, an esteemed upholstery shop in the community. In a way, it brought together all our expertise in one place: our appreciation for the artistic and the artisanal, our commitment to the environment, our experience in manufacturing, and a good deal of psychology for interacting with customers, designers, and employees.

So far, this journey has been incredibly fascinating, stimulating, and enriching. We’ve had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the eclectic and perpetually bustling Miami community. The diversity and vibrancy of this city have opened our eyes to new perspectives, cultures, and experiences. Interacting with the dynamic individuals who call Miami home has been both rewarding and enlightening. We look forward to continuing this journey, learning from our interactions, and contributing to the fabric of this diverse community.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Sure, here’s the revised list without “Kampoong”:

1. **Books and Books Coral Gables**: Explore this iconic independent bookstore in Coral Gables, known for its charming ambiance and curated selection of books.

2. **Key Biscayne Lighthouse Beach**: Relax and unwind at the picturesque Lighthouse Beach on Key Biscayne, offering stunning views of the ocean and the historic lighthouse.

3. **Flamingo Park and Art Deco District**: Take a leisurely stroll through Flamingo Park and explore the vibrant Art Deco District, known for its colorful architecture and bustling atmosphere.

4. **Lunch in Coconut Grove**: Indulge in a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in Coconut Grove, a charming neighborhood renowned for its lush greenery and waterfront dining options.

5. **Vizcaya Museum and Gardens**: Step back in time and explore the opulent Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a historic mansion surrounded by lush gardens overlooking Biscayne Bay.

6. **Perez Art Museum**: Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Perez Art Museum Miami, showcasing a diverse collection of international and local artists.

7. **Farmers Market in Pinecrest**: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Pinecrest Farmers Market, where you can sample fresh produce, gourmet foods, and artisanal goods from local vendors.

8. **Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden**: Discover the beauty of tropical flora and fauna at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, featuring stunning gardens, rare plant collections, and educational exhibits.

9. **Deering Estate**: Step back in time at the Deering Estate, a historic estate and nature preserve offering guided tours, nature trails, and stunning waterfront views.

10. **Barnacle Historic Park**: Discover the history of Miami at the Barnacle Historic Park, a waterfront estate surrounded by lush tropical gardens and scenic views of Biscayne Bay.

11. **Santa Maria St, Old Cutler Road, and Sunset Dr in Coral Gables**: Take a scenic drive along Santa Maria Street, Old Cutler Road, and Sunset Drive in Coral Gables, where you’ll encounter historic landmarks, lush landscapes, and charming neighborhoods.

12. **Dinner in Brickell/Downtown**: End your day with a memorable dinner experience in the vibrant Brickell or Downtown area, where you can enjoy a diverse culinary scene and stunning skyline views.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
**A Shoutout to Immigrants Worldwide**

To the courageous souls who brave new horizons in search of opportunities, experiences, and dreams for their families:

Your determination and resilience inspire us all. Leaving behind the familiar, you forge paths in unknown lands, driven by hope and a vision for a better tomorrow.

With every step, you enrich our world with your culture, traditions, and unwavering spirit. Your presence reminds us of the strength found in diversity and unity.

Here’s to the adventurers, the dreamers, and the seekers of brighter tomorrows. May your journeys be filled with joy, success, and endless possibilities.

Thank you for daring to dream, for daring to hope, and for making our world a richer, more vibrant place. Keep shining, keep striving, and keep believing.

Website: www.radamiami.com

Instagram: @radamiami

Facebook: www.facebook.com/radaupholstery