Meet Shelby Barocas | Interior Designer

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

Hi Shelby, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The ability to be resourceful, and always anticipate the unexpected. Given supply chain challenges, especially over the past two years, I’ve had to learn how to not only think ahead in terms of project management, but also learn to shift a particular vision I may have for a project, and work with what is most readily available. This has been tricky as I never want to disappoint a client who may be excited for a particular product, but I have experienced throughout many projects that design elements are versatile and even if what I initially envision doesn’t end up in the space, the right element will, and it will come together absolutely beautifully.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I spearhead an interior design firm – Interiorspaces By Design – based out of Miami, FL, alongside my mother, Vickie Barocas. My mother, Founder & Principal of Interiorspaces By Design, developed the firm when I was in middle school, and I have been in awe of her style and work ever since. Upon graduating from Florida International University in the summer of 2020 with my Bachelor’s of Science in Public Relations, Advertising and Applied Communications, I immediately began working an entry-level Public Relations job. Public Relations was not the right fit for me. Having previously worked for six years in the fashion industry, I missed the tangible sense of creativity that comes from fabrics, beautiful colors, patterns, and the satisfaction of having a hand in the creation of something both beautiful and functional.

My mother’s business was booming, and I knew I needed to make a change. I quit my Public Relations job, and joined forces with my mother as an interior design duo. New to the design industry, I acted as a sponge for the first year, absorbing every last drop of her knowledge and expertise. I drew parallels between my fashion experience and the “eye” needed to create beautiful design. I fell in love with the business, our clients, and a career in which I feel that you have a tremendous impact on client’s health, happiness, and overall wellbeing – as I believe the home is a huge catalyst for all of these factors.

At Interiorspaces By Design, we are design innovators, with great consideration for sustainability, our clients’ style, and overall functionality, so that a space may be stunning, while simultaneously being well-lived. We draw inspiration from our worldly travels, treasured antiques, and classic style to make every space perfect for our clients.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In Miami, there are so many exceptional places to visit. If my best friend was visiting, and I wanted to show them the best time ever over a week long trip, I’d take them to the following must-go spots:

Breakfast at Versailles on Calle Ocho, walk around and tour one of Miami’s most authentic, vibrant neighborhoods – Little Havana. Stop for a scoop of ice cream at my long-time friend’s shop, Azucar, of course.

An afternoon lounging by the pool at the Standard, on Miami Beach. This is an amazing spot for people watching, gorgeous Miami views, and the Lido Lemonade is delicious.

A nightcap at Broken Shaker, nestled inside the Freehand on Miami Beach. This is by far my favorite bar in Miami, filled with interesting foreigners, hand-crafted cocktails so good that it’s a sin to only have one, and delicious food right downstairs at 27 Restaurant, if you’re hungry. The ambience is laid-back, casual cool – a refreshing departure from the rest of South Beach.

Day trip to Vizcaya Museum & Gardens to soak up some beauty, architecture, and Miami history. The Vizcaya villa and grounds are nothing short of stunning.

Drinks and dancing at The Living Room, within the superb Faena Hotel. This decadent spot is a one-of-a-kind experience on Miami Beach, filled with gorgeous people, fabulous interior design, and great live music. Local artists, bands & DJs perform original songs & inspired tunes, while top-notch cocktails flow and the fashion will have your head turning all night long.

In Miami, an afternoon spent at the beach is essential, and my favorite spot is the Ocean Club on Key Biscayne. Nothing beats laying out with locals and enjoying the tranquility that Key Biscayne has to offer. A stop at The Golden Hog Gourmet Market for delicious beach snacks, is a must.

For sensational sight-seeing and excellent cuisine, the Miami Design District is a great place to spend an afternoon. Peruse the newest fashion designs, both in the stores and via Miami street style. For lunch, Mandolin Aegean Bistro is hard to beat.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mother – whom if not for her style influence, business skills, and incredible creativity, I would not have found my passion in interior design.

Instagram: @interiorspacesbydesign

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelby-barocas-a20297120

Image Credits
Main photo is taken by Mary Beth Koeth