Designer’s Corner

Tom Diverio

Join us as we sit down with architect and designer, Tom Diverio to discuss Design Tips and Inspiration.

Tom Diverio

Thomas Diverio grew up knowing he wanted to be an architect. Attending the prestigious University of Miami School of Architecture, he paved his way interning and working with local firms.

After graduating Diverio dove into the world of architecture, working for a handful of architecture firms until being contacted by Charlotte Dunagan.

With Dunagan’s exceptional background in interior design Diverio’s vast experience in architecture, the two were able to develop a firm, Dunagan Diverio Design Group, specializing in stunning custom homes from the ground up.

Timeless Design

the interview

What inspired your passion for interior design?

I love that I am able to create interior spaces that my clients will live in and love as time goes on. It is an amazing feeling to know that what you have designed will be used and appreciated on a daily basis, and I think this is what drives me to be the best at what I do.

Who are your (design) mentors (if any)?

I think this is a very difficult question. There are so many amazing architects and interior designers out there constantly reinventing themselves. With the help of the internet, it is so easy to go online and discover designs all over the world. I will say that I do find myself drawn to the warm, modern, clean lines of some of the designers in Asia. There are some amazing tropical modern homes that I think speak to what we do a lot here in Miami.

What are the most important decorative elements in a home?

I think one of the most important elements in a home is lighting, whether decorative or architectural. This one element can completely change the look of a home and make a dramatic difference in the look and feel of a space.

What upcoming projects are you looking forward to?

At this very moment we have just completed 2 of the largest homes we have ever done, one in Napa California, and the other here in Miami on Star Island. Every week we receive inquiries for potential new clients and projects. I think one of the greatest things about doing what we do, is that we are constantly able to reinvent ourselves and our style based on what the client is looking for. Even if we are working on 10 modern homes at once, each one will have its own story, which makes each project so unique, and in most cases the client is what drives the design and feel of the home.  

Where do you go for design inspiration?

I think inspiration can come from anywhere and anything. I could be walking down the street and see an amazing detail on the exterior of a beautiful high-end retail store and think, wow, that could be amazing for this living room I am working on. I also love getting lost on the internet on all these amazing architecture and design websites where you have access to projects from all over the world.  

What are your three most important elements when designing a bedroom?

Flooring, lighting, and an amazing design for the headboard wall.

What is on your nightstand?

I am a minimalist, so a wireless phone charger for my phone and a framed family picture.

what people are saying about us

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Jaime Blomquist | LONG TIME CUSTOMER

what people are saying about us

"The 700 thread count St Tropez sheet set lives up to the hype! These sheets are certainly the best sheets I have ever slept in and I am beyond thrilled with this purchase. The sheets are soft, smooth, breathable and simply luxurious."

Nicky Monteiro Art Director

what people are saying about us

“The sheets are absolutely amazing! Getting a good night rest is heavily weighted on good sheets. Since I have been using them, I have been sleeping like a baby and find myself in a better mood the next day because of my restful night”..

-Lynette J - Editor at Gulfstream media

what people are saying about us

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-Steven Stolman - Author, Design Consultant

what people are saying about us

"The Perfect Medium: These sheets hit that ideal (and elusive) spot between soft and crisp. I find sateen and silky sheets too slippery and warm, but these are perfect. The embellishments are sleek and distinctive, but work well with the other bedding I own. (Even the packaging is lovely.) Plus, Elegant Strand, unlike so many other sheet producers, seems to have fully adapted to the new world of super-thick mattresses. Not only does the bottom sheet fit easily, the top sheet is extra wide so it can be tucked in, no matter how thick your mattress. I find these sheets to be as good, if not better, than sets I own by famous makers that cost far more. A great bargain and worth every cent!"

Michael Boodro, Executive Editor, Dering Hall

what people are saying about us

"They are so soft to sleep on. Love them."

Scott Sanders, Interior Designer

what people are saying about us

"My wife and I felt the sheets were soft to the touch and excellent quality.We could feel the elegance."

Tom Diverio, Interior Designer, Dunagan Diverio Design Group

what people are saying about us

"Elegant Strand is a luxury brand with superior artisanship. We love the feeling of the bedding, so soft to the touch and how elegant it looks."

Charlotte Dunagan, Interior Designer, Dunagan Diverio Design Group

what people are saying about us

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Gil Walsh, Interior Designer, Gil Walsh Interiors

what people are saying about us

"The loveliest sheet set!"

Jennifer Smith, Home Editor, LUXE Magazine

what people are saying about us

"When I received these beautiful sheets, I was very impressed by their style. Once I placed them on my bed, I found myself further impressed by the elegance and quality of the sheets. Attention to detail and style in the creation of them is apparent, and the feel of them is absolutely divine. Now I REALLY look forward to bedtime!"

Cyndi Hochberg, Publisher, Florida Home & Garden

what people are saying about us

"I recently received my Elegant Strands set of sheets and could not be more pleased with the product and service. The elegant packaging just made you feel that you were about to experience true luxury. That evening getting into bed I was in a state of pure tranquility and had the best night’s sleep. I now have to order more sets for all my bedrooms."

Shelley McCormick, Publisher, Design + Décor Magazine

what people are saying about us

"The sheets are absolutely amazing! Getting a good night rest is heavily weighted on good sheets. Since I have been using them, I have been sleeping like a baby and find myself in a better mood the next day because of my restful night"

Lynette Janac, CEO l Publisher, South Florida Luxury Guide

what people are saying about us

"I am very pleased with my new sheet set, Saint-Tropez. They are extremely soft and smooth for a great night sleep. I am very happy with the feel and quality."

Stephen Lazorischak, Publisher, Modern Luxury South Florida Magazine

what people are saying about us

"I love that Elegant Strand sheets are equal parts high quality and stylish. Crawling into bed at night feels like a little slice of heaven."

Kara Franker, Editor-in-Chief Modern Luxury Weddings Magazine

what people are saying about us

"Thank you for the beautiful sheet set. Love Elegant Strand!"

Brittany Chevalier, National Editor, LUXE Magazine

what people are saying about us

"The Saint-Tropez set is amazing! Super comfortable and simply stylish. I will definitely be getting a new set the next time I update my bedding design.”

Tyler Anderson, Client & Community Relations Coordinator, South Florida Luxury Network, South Florida Luxury Guide

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