DLT Interiors
Debbie Lori Travin of DLT Interiors discovered her true calling in interior design during the ambitious renovation of her first home in Scarsdale, New York. What began as a personal project evolved into a thriving career, with DLT Interiors now recognized as a leading firm known for creating luxurious, custom interiors across the United States.
Get to know Debbie Lori Travin in this EFL Designer Q&A!
Q: What inspired your journey into interior design?
Debbie Lori Travin: After living in New York City for many years, my husband and I decided to move to the suburbs in search of a home with a beautiful backyard. We found an incredible property in Scarsdale, but the house itself needed to be completely rebuilt. Despite having an architect, I took on the interior and exterior design myself, handling everything from windows and floors to tiles and furniture. It was an enormous challenge, but I loved every moment of it. The process was so rewarding that when our architect started showcasing our home to potential clients, they began asking who had designed the interiors. With encouragement from friends and family, I pursued a career in interior design, eventually attending the New York School of Interior Design, which gave me the confidence to launch my own business. From one satisfied client to the next, my business grew organically.
Q: How has your style evolved over the years?
Debbie Lori Travin: My style is always evolving. While I cater to my clients’ tastes, which I thoroughly explore before beginning a project, my own aesthetic often influences the designs. In Manhattan, I focused on elegant, transitional rooms, but in South Florida, my work has shifted towards a modern coastal aesthetic. I strive to create timeless, classic spaces rather than follow fleeting trends that may quickly feel outdated.
Q: What is your design aesthetic? What unique elements define your style, and how do you incorporate them into your projects?
Debbie Lori Travin: My designs are known for being clean, fresh, and light, creating spaces that are both inviting and sophisticated. Unlike overly designed, cold interiors, my spaces feel approachable and enjoyable, yet elegant. I design homes for real people, so livability is key. Although I leave a piece of myself in every space, my main focus is always on making sure my clients feel happy and comfortable in their homes.
Hamptons Project - Family Room
Hamptons Project - Primary Bedroom
Q: Tell us about your Hamptons installation. How long did it take you from concept to completion? Did you have any particularly challenging or rewarding moments along the way?
Debbie Lori Travin: The Hamptons project is one of my favorites! It perfectly embodies the elements we’ve discussed—elegant, timeless, cozy, and approachable, with a touch of California casual. The Hamptons are sophisticated, but this home was designed as a family-friendly vacation retreat. My client, who I had previously worked with on their Upper East Side duplex, entrusted the entire project to me. We focused on practicality, choosing slipcovered furnishings that are easy to maintain and durable. The project was completed on a tight timeline—just three months from concept to completion, with the installation itself taking about a week.
Q: Is there a specific element in this space that stands out as your favorite?
Debbie Lori Travin: I absolutely love the family room! It features a wall of bay windows that overlook the backyard, creating a grand, open space filled with natural light. The view influenced the entire room’s design, making it feel spacious and serene. I’m also particularly fond of the Primary Bedroom; it’s a classic, inviting space that feels like a true retreat.
Q: What fuels your creativity? Are there specific places, experiences, or artists that inspire your work?
Debbie Lori Travin: When I lived in New York, travel was a major source of inspiration for me. I visited incredible places like Marrakech and Bali. Now that I’m in Miami, surrounded by the beach, nature is a big influence. The colors and textures of the ocean, sand, and sunsets inspire me, and I love bringing these elements into my designs.
Q: How do you balance your work vs personal life?
Debbie Lori Travin: Self-care is my top priority, as it prepares me to handle the stresses of this job. Designing someone’s home is a huge responsibility, so I need to be at my best. I maintain my fitness through activities like running on the beach and practicing yoga, which is a great stress reliever. I also use positive affirmations and maintain a positive mindset, which helps me navigate challenges.
Q: What was it like as an interior designer planning both of your daughter’s weddings in one year?
Debbie Lori Travin: Wedding planning and design are both very visual processes, so they complement each other well. Interestingly, both of my daughters took the lead on planning their own weddings. It was a collaborative effort, with them running ideas by me, but I was mostly there to support and enjoy watching them create their dream weddings.
Q: If you could collaborate with any other designer, whether living or historical, who would it be and why?
Debbie Lori Travin: I am excited to be currently collaborating with Ann Yancy from Ro Sham Beaux on custom lighting for a project in Miami, and I believe lighting is like the jewelry of a room—it gives each space its unique personality.
Q: Let’s talk design trends – tell us what is catching your attention lately and what you love!
Debbie Lori Travin: I’m thrilled that green is finally having its moment! I'm excited to see green finally taking center stage in design. It's such a versatile color that works beautifully as a neutral, especially when paired with natural materials. Green brings a serene, zen-like vibe to any space, making it both calming and refreshing.