A Conversation with Cristi Martel
As downtown Sarasota continues to evolve with modern architecture and elevated living, interior designer Cristi Martel shares how thoughtful design transforms vertical living into something warm, livable, and timeless. From maximizing light and flow to offering curated choices that balance personal expression with market appeal, Cristi explains how The Gallery Sarasota redefines luxury condominium design for today’s discerning homeowner.
The Art of Modern Condo Living
Is designing a downtown Sarasota condo different from designing a single-family home on the Keys or mainland?
Absolutely. Designing for a downtown condominium is a different experience because the setting and lifestyle shape the approach. Every decision has to balance light, flow, and function within a more architectural, vertically oriented space. Clean lines and cohesive materials help create continuity and calm. In luxury developments, buyers also appreciate spaces that feel fresh and adaptable, and resale value becomes an important consideration as well. A neutral foundation allows them to personalize through furniture, artwork, and lighting. Condo design is really about refined simplicity, livability, and creating an environment that feels timeless and inviting to both current and future owners.
What are some techniques you use to make a home feel even more spacious?
Using consistent flooring throughout is one of the easiest ways to create flow. I also favor low-profile, modern furniture with clean lines to open up sightlines and maximize visual space. Layering light—natural, ambient, and accent—adds dimension and makes a room feel larger and more dynamic.
How do you balance personal expression with broad market appeal in multi-residential design?
It’s about offering choice within a curated palette. You want each homeowner to feel they’ve made the space their own, but the overall building still needs to read as cohesive and timeless. That’s where the design framework and material selection are so important—they allow flexibility without losing the project’s identity.
What strategies do you use to create individuality in each residence while maintaining design cohesion across the building?
I like to create variation through finish combinations—different cabinet tones, countertop colors, or fixture finishes—within a coordinated set of materials. This way, each residence feels unique but still speaks the same design language. It keeps the architecture and interiors unified.
The Gallery Design Philosophy
How would you describe the overall interior design vision for The Gallery Sarasota?
The design vision is contemporary, refined, and connected to its environment. The finishes are clean and modern, but there’s warmth in the materials—wood tones, soft neutrals, and rich textures that make the spaces inviting. The architecture has such strong lines; the interiors are designed to complement that strength with balance and simplicity.
What elements or materials do you feel make this project stand out in the Sarasota market?
The level of choice and the quality of the finishes. It’s rare to see this range of high-end Italian cabinetry, quartz surfaces, and porcelain tile options in a condominium environment. Every material was selected for its aesthetic value and performance. It’s a refined palette that elevates everyday living.
How do you approach designing interiors that complement the building’s modern architecture while maintaining warmth and livability?
I start with contrast—pairing crisp architectural forms with organic textures and natural tones. The goal is to keep the interiors light and uncluttered but never cold. Warm finishes, tactile materials, and thoughtful lighting all help create a space that feels sophisticated yet comfortable.
In what ways do you see The Gallery setting the tone for future downtown Sarasota interiors?
I think it’s less about setting trends and more about offering flexibility. You rarely see this level of choice and customization in a larger condominium environment. Here, buyers receive personalized interior design guidance through one-on-one consultations with me to explore a broad selection of high-end Italian cabinetry and surface options. That individualized experience is something buyers will begin to expect in future developments.
Cristi’s Personal Perspective
What inspires your design direction each year—travel, art, nature, architecture?
My designs are influenced by all of the above. As an artist, I’m continually inspired by the color and texture found in natural environments, the structure of architecture, and the emotion conveyed through art. While I don’t travel as often as I’d like, exploring other cultures and locations through research allows me to discover new materials and design perspectives that continually enrich my creative approach.
As a designer who also works on fully custom homes, how do you approach design in a development like The Gallery, where finishes are curated but still customizable?
The aesthetic, palette, and architectural character are what define The Gallery. I collaborate closely with each homeowner to understand their personal style, creating an individualized experience that makes the design process both exciting and meaningful. By focusing on elements such as color, texture, and flow, I ensure the design feels uniquely theirs while maintaining harmony with the overall community vision.
How do you stay ahead of design trends while ensuring that your projects still feel timeless?
Design is always evolving, and I believe it’s essential to stay curious. I follow emerging trends through industry publications, trade shows, and conversations with other professionals, but I never let them dictate my work. Instead, I treat them as subtle influences that can refresh a space without overpowering it. My focus is on longevity—natural textures, clean lines, and balanced color palettes that stand the test of time. When a space is grounded in these fundamentals, it feels timeless no matter how styles evolve. For me, great design isn’t about following what’s popular; it’s about crafting spaces that feel authentic.
What advice would you give homeowners or buyers looking to create a space that feels fresh for 2026 but will still feel current for years to come?
I believe that when you invest in quality, craftsmanship, and architectural detail, you create a space that stands the test of time. Adding personal touches like distinctive lighting or soft textures makes the space feel both unique and inviting. Trends will come and go, but authenticity never goes out of style.
About The Designer
Cristi Martel
Interior Designer | B.F.A. Interior Design
Known for her refined, livable modern style, Cristi Martel brings warmth, balance, and sophistication to every space she designs. Drawing on her background in fine arts and years of experience in both custom residential and luxury development projects, Cristi creates interiors that feel timeless, intentional, and deeply personal.
email:
cell: 941-812-3304
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