Lowree Cartwright can be called “The Bahamas’ Best Kept Secret” or even “The Bahamian HGTV Queen,” but sitting across the table from her, she simply has the bubbliest personality I have ever come across. I had the pleasure of meeting the 26-year old Designer Extraordinaire recently and was thrilled to see that such an ambitious and accomplished young lady would be so humble and so self-assured at the very same time. So while I sat there and enjoyed her company she filled me in on details about her world; everything from Wednesday evenings with her girls and Fridays with her mother to working on the world famous W-Hotel in Washington, DC and even the Baha Mar project. Lowree is definitely one of very few interior designers in the Bahamas and even though she has worked all over the world, everywhere from Germany to Virginia and Florida to California, she has never forgotten her roots.
She has, without a doubt, made a name out there for the Bahamas in the interior designing world. But still there is just one word that can be used to describe Lowree because her talent is not just limited to interior design but she paints and sculpts, in her own words: “… I am an artist; I enjoy mostly painting and sculpting. I express this passion through my designs. Each floor plan is like a sculpture and each material is like paint to my paint brush.” Couldn’t have been said better, so without further delay:
10 Questions for Lowree Cartwright:
eL 242 – So how did you get started?
During my senior year of high school I also attended University [Ringling School of Art & Design, Sarasota, Florida] where I took several art & design courses, this paved the road to my career.
eL 242 – Who and/or what inspires you?
I am inspired by everything, such as traveling or even a day at the beach.
eL 242 – What’s your favorite aspect of Interior Design?
I enjoy the fact that I can create a concept and see the space come to life.
eL 242 – What are some of the peeks of your career?
I enjoyed working with young talented Bahamians at Baha Mar.
Working with Dianna Wong in LA, was definitely a high point, she is such a fabulous designer, and her portfolio includes The Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows in Beverly Hills, California, The Grand Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland in Hollywood California and The Mandarin Oriental in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Starting my own company, Elyse Design has been a rewarding experience, I have enjoyed the projects I have worked on thus far and I look forward to using my design skills on many projects throughout the Bahamas and beyond.
eL 242 – So how and when did you start up your company (Elyse Designs)?
I had a few request for my design services and it all began from there. I officially started the company in January 2009.
eL 242 – Who are some of your role models? And why?
My Mother and father they have always been so supportive of my goals and career.
Jackson Burnside, has always given me professional advice, his artwork and use of color amazes me.
eL 242 – Where do you find unique pieces in Nassau?
I shop around; I am familiar with every furniture and accessory store in Nassau.
I also like to visit varies art galleries because I can always find something unique there.
eL 242 – What messages do you try to send with your work?
Every client is different so I intend to create a design that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
eL 242 – What’s your favorite color?
I don’t like to limit myself to just one color, so I don’t have a favorite color. I love color combinations and my favorite right now is chocolate and Ice blue.
eL 242 – What is the ultimate goal for your career?
I would love to design and own my own hotel.
eL 242 – Any advice to others who may want to get in your career field?
Do what you love; you don’t have to limit yourself to the norm careers.
