A Philly Design Duo Finds Its Form on the Main Line

Barette Widell (seated in the picture) and Christina Boschetti, the duo behind Philadelphia-based Widell Designs, have been wowing Main Line clients with an array of custom services, from nursery design to event planning. They’ll even do a virtual design for an affordable fee. 

Christina’s personal decorating style: On most days, my tastes—like my interests—lean toward more eclectic and avant-garde, whereas on other days I try to incorporate traditional pieces with a classic, yet whimsical flair. 

Barette’s favorite room in the house: My son’s nursery. I just love the calming feel his room has and all the special touches we added to it. When I was designing this space I wanted him to feel safe, yet let his imagination run wild with the safari/animal theme and I think we really accomplished that.

Christina’s most prized possessions: An Ochre pear drop chandelier I found on NYC Craigslist still in the original packaging (thousands less than sticker price) and my son’s Eames elephant chair we bought for his first birthday. 

Barette’s design inspiration: Becki Owens. I love how effortless all her designs look and feel. She is extremely detailed, but still makes everything look simple and chic. 

Christina’s favorite color: Gray. It evokes emotion and it’s strong, sensual, luxurious and dramatic. It can be paired with any metallic or pop of color to create a huge statement. 

Barette’s favorite design element: Texture. I love being able to touch and feel design. It also gives great depth to your space. 

Christina’s definition of good taste: Styling unexpected pieces together. The mixture of weird textures and organic surfaces create an interesting dialogue. 

Christina’s biggest decorating faux pas: Too much “baby” in a nursery or kid’s room. Some people feel because they are having a boy the entire room has to be “baby blue,” or a girl “pastel pink.” This just makes me cringe. 

photo by tessa marie images