At just 24, Lucrezia Buccellati took the helm as lead designer of one of the most distinguished jewelry houses in the world. In some respects, her appointment represented a new generation of Buccellati. Her father, Andrea Buccellati, currently serves as president and creative director, carrying on the family tradition that was started by his grandfather Mario Buccellati in 1919 and elevated to international acclaim by his father, Gianmaria Buccellati. Lucrezia was the brand’s first female designer, and even her debut collection was fittingly fresh for the Miami-born, New York-based Millennial: a $206,000 smartphone cover with Leonardo’s sun, her ode to modernity and classical influences.

“It’s an honor to maintain the continuation of a family business,” she says. “I don’t think my grandfather was expecting it, but when he saw how much passion and love I had, he understood. Being female, I think I bring a new prospective to our designs which complements my father’s. In the past, most of the jobs were designated to the family men, so I feel that this shows a new generation in the working industry.” 

As an extension of our exclusive feature on her family’s legendary jewelry business for Homes & Estates magazine, we recently spoke to the art-loving heiress about how she creates glamour in her home.

Previews Inside Out How would you define your style at home?

Lucrezia Buccellati I love nature, it’s what gives me the peace when I create new designs. That’s why a lot of big windows with an amazing view is essential in my country home, which I’m in the process of building. It’s also very important my house has a big chimney with a nice family area. In terms of style, I like very open with a country-chic modern feel and a touch of Japanese style. I don’t like too much color in the house unless it’s with art or special furniture, and I love the mix of glass and wood with stone.

Previews Inside Out Would you say that your family pedigree has informed your approach to life, or informed your personal style?

Lucrezia Buccellati I don’t believe that because we come from a specific family that it influences our style or who we are. But for sure, it is reflected in our lifestyle, and that’s been very different.

Previews Inside Out How do you create glamour in your personal spaces?

Lucrezia Buccellati I show a lot of my style in my furniture. Not necessarily only with modern furnishings, but mixing them with special pieces of antiques. Art is essential in my house. One of my side hobbies is painting, so most of the house highlights a lot of my own art.

Previews Inside Out Are there any signs of Buccellati’s Renaissance history in your home?

Lucrezia Buccellati Yes, in some of the special antiques.

Previews Inside Out How much time out of the year do you spend in Milan?

Lucrezia Buccellati I would say I spend in total two months out of the year in Milan, and the rest of the year in New York.