Jay Britto, a founding principal of the award-winning interior design firm Britto Charette, has spent more than a decade creating high-end residential interiors. His extensive knowledge of innovative design trends and materials, along with his celebrated contemporary style, have earned him an impressive and loyal clientele. Born and raised in Peru, Jay grew up surrounded by a rich and vibrant culture that continues to inspire him. His love of all things beautiful translates into everything he does. Clean and sophisticated, Jay’s portfolio includes multimillion-dollar residential projects, notable South Beach venues, and an extensive roster of private residential clients in New York, South Florida, Montreal, and Central and South America. Jay prides himself on being flexible, creative, and collegial — all necessary ingredients for providing clients with a comprehensive and unsurpassed design experience. His leadership and design skills have made luxury interior design synonymous with the Britto Charette brand. See some of Jay’s designs in today’s Designer Friday.
Warm wood tones and the slatted wall add calm structure, while the sculptural lighting brings a playful, artistic touch.
Andrew Joseph: How would you describe your design philosophy in three words?
Jay Britto: Luxurious, functional, inviting.
AJ: How do you keep up with the latest design trends?
JB: We avoid using trendy elements because the nature of our business is mostly luxury residential. While trendy elements can be great for hospitality design, we understand that those trends have “freshness” dates that don’t always work in residential design, so you won’t find us chasing trends that you might find on social media. However, we are always looking for beautiful and luxurious designs that have staying power, and the best way for us to find those is by traveling the world and attending the most important art and design fairs.
AJ: How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your designs?
JB: Unless I’m planning to create a decorative display, I only use collectible design that is functional. I often specify aesthetically pleasing designs, but I lean toward pieces that are comfortable and useful rather than just pieces that look pretty in a room but aren’t usable.
Soft curves, layered neutrals, and a marble fireplace create a serene, sculptural atmosphere perfect for quiet conversation.
AJ: What is your favorite type of furniture to design?
JB: Furniture that’s crafted with a modern twist. Show me something modern with a classical touch and I’m all in. I love using collectible design in our interiors, so I’m always looking to elevate the design — to give it weight and substance — rather than just placing furniture. We talk a lot on our team about the importance of creating a story with our interior designs, and the pieces we choose do just that.
AJ: How do you approach designing for a specific location or cultural influence?
JB: I always take into consideration the geographical location of each project, the culture, and the natural elements of the region. I like to source stones and finishes from the location and translate them with a modern approach to my aesthetics which is why clients come to us.
AJ: What is your favorite design era and why?
JB: 1920-40 — the Art Deco era for sure! The elegance inspired by ancient Egypt and Mesoamerica is mesmerizing. By far this is my favorite era in which I find most of my inspiration!
Tactile textures, sculptural decor, and bold contrast between light wood and black marble give this corner a grounded yet artistic feel.
AJ: If you weren’t a designer, what would you be and why?
JB: Music is an integral part of my life. I often dream with music, mixing songs, and creating new beats. I am a frustrated DJ, lol. And I’m convinced that music helps me be more creative and that it spills over into what I do as an interior designer. Photography is my passion. Even now, I practice it on a daily basis, and I absolutely love architectural and nature photography. In my next life, I hope to be an architectural photographer with a side gig as a DJ at night!
AJ: Best advice you’d give your teenage self?
JB: I would tell myself to work for an established interior design company while attending, or right after graduating from, design school because it will give you a jumpstart and confidence for when you’re ready to venture out on your own.
Like what you see? Get it first with a subscription to aspire design and home magazine.