About the brand
BE DESIGN is a turnkey architecture and interior design firm driven by intention, creativity, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of design. Rooted in a seamless integration of architecture and interiors, the brand approaches each project as a complete and cohesive experience thoughtfully guiding every phase from concept to completion. With a focus on innovative design, BE Design creates spaces that are not only visually striking, but deeply personal to those who live in them.
About the founder
ELMAR BENAVENTE
FOUNDER / CEO OF BE DESIGN ASSOCIATES
Elmar Benavente is the visionary behind BE DESIGN, bringing over three decades of experience in high-end residential design. With more than 30 years in the industry including 18 years dedicated to design leadership and project management he has cultivated a practice defined by precision, creativity, and a deep understanding of luxury living.
Throughout his career, Elmar has led a diverse portfolio of projects spanning a wide range of scales, complexities, and budgets, each approached with the same level of intention and care. His work is rooted in the belief that design is a form of art, one that captures the essence of a client’s vision and transforms it into a tangible, lived experience.
Blending technical expertise with artistic intuition, Elmar brings together experience and advanced design tools to create environments that are both visually compelling and deeply personal. His ability to interpret and elevate each client’s ideas results in spaces that are not only beautifully executed, but thoughtfully tailored to how they are lived in every day.
EDUCATION
New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) — Architecture Studies
Pratt Institute — Architecture Studies
BRAND VALUES
TOTAL DESIGN CONTROL
What it means:
We control the entire vision—from architecture to interiors to millwork—so nothing is left to chance.
Why Elmar believes in it:
I’ve seen too many projects fall apart when too many disconnected teams are involved. When everything is designed and coordinated under one vision, the result is cleaner, stronger, and truly exceptional. Control is not about ego—it’s about delivering excellence.
CRAFTSMANSHIP WITHOUT COMPROMISE
What it means:
Every detail matters. From materials to execution, we push for the highest level of quality always.
Why Elmar believes in it:
I come from a background of making things with my hands, from kitchens to millwork. I know the difference between something that is “done” and something that is crafted. Our clients feel that difference, and that’s what defines luxury.
DESIGN THAT ELEVATES LIFE
What it means:
We don’t just design homes, we design experiences that improve how people live, feel, and connect.
Why Elmar believes in it:
Architecture changed my life. From New York to today, I’ve seen how spaces influence emotions, family, and identity. A home should inspire you every day not just look good in photos.
RELENTLESS ACCOUNTABILITY
What it means:
We take ownership of the outcome, good or bad, and we push until the job is right.
Why Elmar believe in it:
In high-end projects, things get complex. Mistakes happen. What separates great firms from average ones is accountability. I stand behind our work, our decisions, and our team—because that’s what builds trust and long-term relationships.
COVET HOUSE
CASA MIA
BESPOKE
The world of Be Design
BE DESIGN is a turnkey architecture and interior design firm, guiding each project from concept to completion through an intentional and highly creative design approach.
Covet House is a leading luxury design collective, bringing together an exclusive portfolio of globally recognized brands to craft refined, statement-driven interiors.
CASA MIA is BE DESIGN’s inaugural spec home - entirely envisioned and executed from the ground up as a true reflection of the firm’s design philosophy. As the first in a limited series, it represents a signature BE Design product: intentional, highly curated, and crafted with the same exclusivity and precision as a collectible piece.
Bespoke is a custom millwork studio delivering tailored cabinetry and architectural solutions, rooted in precision and Italian craftsmanship, with a full scope of millwork that shapes each space.
Industry recognition
