Nancy Santorelli

A native of Boston, Mass. and a graduate of Boston University and Boston Architectural College, Nancy Santorelli has lived and worked in Boston, Milan, New York City, and Miami. After working with world-renowned studios & designers, such as Piero Lissoni and Gensler, Nancy joined Meyer Davis Studio in 2018. Nancy, Associate Principal and Director of the Miami office, collaborates closely with clients who include international hoteliers, developers, and private clients on Branded Residences, Hotels, and a Private luxury yacht.

Meyer Davis is a multi-disciplinary design studio founded by Will Meyer and Gray Davis. The award-winning firm has established itself at the forefront of design for creating standout destinations, distinct residences, and retail and work spaces throughout the U.S. and internationally. Meyer Davis’ public projects boast a welcoming, residential quality, and the studio’s residential projects offer generous warmth and comfort. This harmonious marriage of seemingly disparate elements—public and private, old and new, uptown and downtown— is quintessentially Meyer Davis. Key hospitality clients include Four Seasons, Auberge Resorts, and Mandarin Oriental. Additionally, Meyer Davis is sought after by the world’s leading restaurateurs and chefs including Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Daniel Boulud, as well as Mercer Street Hospitality and the iconic Harrods department store in London. The designer of Oscar de la Renta’s worldwide boutiques, the firm also works with commercial residential clients including The Related Group and Extell Development.

When you were a kid, what did you dream of becoming? Did any of those childhood ambitions lead you to where you are today?
When I was a kid, I dreamt of being a classical ballerina or a sports medicine doctor. I’ve always been fascinated by how people move and connect through space, which started with my love of dance. Over time, I realized it wasn’t just the creativity I loved—it was also the structure behind it all, almost like the math of movement. That mix of creative and analytical thinking is what led me to an interest in interiors and spatial design and led me to where I am today.

Is there a particular designer, artwork, or design movement that deeply inspires you? How has it influenced your own style or philosophy?
I’m constantly inspired, especially during my travels whether I’m reminded of the works of great designers and artists of the past or discovering new inspiration. This summer I spent time in the Aeolian islands and was especially drawn to the textures and patterns found in nature there. The architecture and design are a merging of cultures and laid-back lifestyle that draws you in. We are surrounded by inspiration.

Some of my inspirational architects/designers include Tadao Ando, John Pawson, Joseph Dirand, and Michele Bonan.

How would you describe your design philosophy? Has it evolved over time, and if so, how?
My design philosophy centers on creating spaces that feel both elevated and livable. Over time, it’s evolved to focus more on sustainability and the human experience, ensuring that each design feels personal and connected to its environment.

Tell us a bit about where you live: How long have you been there, and how does your environment shape your creative process?
Living in a vibrant, design-forward city like Miami keeps me constantly inspired. The city’s energy, combined with its mix of diverse architecture and cultural influences, fuels my creativity every day.

I also travel to Italy several times a year, which is another huge source of inspiration. The country’s blend of historical and modern design is incredible, and its diversity—from beach resorts to mountain cabins and urban hubs—offers endless creative fuel. Italy is so rich and saturated with inspiration that it always leaves me feeling refreshed and full of ideas.

Was there a specific turning point or experience when you realized that design was your true calling?
Design is actually my second career—I started out in finance. I always knew I wanted to do something more creative but still rooted in structure, systems, and theory, which made design a natural fit. It struck the perfect balance between creativity and having a tangible end result within a shorter time frame than something like an architectural project, which can take years to realize.

What really drew me in was the idea of creating beautiful spaces and the sensitivity I’ve always had to how environments make people feel. That connection sealed the deal for me—it felt like design was where I was meant to be.

Which of your projects or products are you most proud of, and what makes them stand out for you?
The Rossinavi Seawolf X yacht is a project I’m especially proud of. It stands out because it pushed us to think differently, tackling new challenges like working within tighter spaces and meeting unique criteria like factoring in BluE technology. It was a chance to reimagine luxury in a way that felt innovative and responsible.

What makes it even more special is how it redefines the experience of an interior space. Designing something like this meant putting ourselves into the mindset of those who would live and move within it, shaping every detail to create a truly immersive and memorable environment.

In your opinion, what is the most significant challenge facing the design world today? How do you think designers should respond to it?
One of the biggest challenges in the design world today is sustainability, which also presents an incredible opportunity. Designers have a responsibility to prioritize materials, processes, and solutions that reduce environmental impact while still creating beautiful and functional spaces. It’s about rethinking traditional approaches and aligning them with a more sustainable future.

At the same time, there’s the challenge of coming up with fresh, unique ideas. As the world evolves, it’s essential for designers to redefine conventions, stay innovative, and find new ways to stand out while remaining mindful of the impact of our work.

What are you currently working on? Are you exploring any new materials, techniques, or ideas that you’re excited about?
I’m currently working on a resort in Italy, as well as a branded residence and hotel in South Florida. Both projects are incredibly exciting, and they offer opportunities to explore new materials and techniques that align with their unique locations and cultures. It’s inspiring to create spaces that blend luxury, functionality, and a strong sense of place.

What’s on the horizon for you? Any upcoming projects, events, or goals you’re particularly looking forward to?
We’re continuing to redefine conventions with exciting new projects, including more sustainable designs and innovative uses of space. I’m particularly excited about developing new yacht concepts and finding opportunities to bring our hospitality expertise into different markets. Exploring new types of projects across sectors keeps things fresh and opens the door to unique creative challenges.

To discover more, visit Meyer Davis Studio and follow on Instagram @meyerdavis.