In the heart of St. Pete, award-winning interior designer Rob Bowen has unveiled his latest masterpiece: a stunning 3,000-square-foot studio on Mirror Lake. Formerly nestled on Beach Drive, Rob Bowen Design has made a bold move to its new digs at 180 Mirror Lake Dr. N, transforming an old architect’s office into a vibrant hub of luxury and innovation.
After a year-and-a-half of meticulous construction and redesign, Bowen has crafted a space that not only serves as an office for his talented ten-person team but also doubles as an “experience center” for clients seeking inspiration. The studio is a true reflection of Bowen’s design philosophy—approachable yet enigmatic, inviting visitors to explore a world of possibilities.
“When you walk in, it feels very residential and approachable, almost familiar, yet there’s a sense of mystery,” Bowen shares, describing the enchanting atmosphere of his new studio. “You think, ‘I have no idea what I’m looking at, but I love it.’”
As you step into the two-story lobby—affectionately likened to a grand living room—you’re greeted by an array of design elements that spark curiosity. From bathrooms showcasing ceiling-hung faucets to a conference room that cleverly conceals kitchen appliances, every corner invites interaction. “I wanted to build a space where clients could say, ‘What do bronze walls look like? What do silk walls look like?’” Bowen explains. “There’s a little bit of everything that you can come interact with.”
Born in St. Petersburg and raised in Central America, Bowen returned home to establish his interior design business over a decade ago. His firm has gained recognition in the luxury condominium market and beyond, with projects spanning from New York to South Africa and Australia. However, he remains deeply committed to his hometown’s growth and evolution.“St. Pete has evolved so much since I was a kid,” he reflects. With an influx of new residents from cities like New York and Los Angeles, Bowen has noticed a shift in his clientele—many are now local homeowners eager to transform their spaces.
The new studio symbolizes more than just an expansion; it marks a strategic shift in Bowen’s approach. With his husband Jason managing operations, Bowen can focus on creative endeavors while nurturing their shared vision for the firm. The couple previously owned Social Roost, a popular downtown restaurant they recently sold.
Looking ahead, Bowen is brimming with ambitious plans for 2025. He aims to launch a rug collection and explore collaborations in lighting and furniture design—all while continuing to support local residents affected by recent hurricanes. “I want to help these people that were really affected establish their new life,” he says with heartfelt empathy.
With built-in smart lighting designed for any occasion and an eye for detail that transforms spaces into sanctuaries, Rob Bowen is not just designing interiors; he’s crafting experiences that resonate with the soul. As he puts it, “If I’m the smartest person in the room, I’m in the wrong room.”
In this vibrant new chapter at Mirror Lake, Rob Bowen Design is set to redefine luxury living in St. Petersburg—one beautifully curated space at a time.