With thanks to the IFDA
Celebrating more than two decades of design leadership and collaboration.
September 19, 2026 | Taste Design is proud to announce that our Founder and Principal, Patti Watson, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Spotlight Award by the International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) New England Chapter.
Presented on September 18 at the IFDA New England Awards Gala at the Hilton Boston Park Plaza, the Spotlight Award recognizes individual contributions to the design community. The evening, themed Defying Gravity, celebrated the creativity, achievements, and leadership of professionals across the design industry.
A Career Built on Collaboration
Since founding Taste Design in 2004, Patti has built a nationally recognized residential interior design firm dedicated to creating beautiful, deeply personal homes. Based in Newport, Rhode Island, and New York, NY, Taste has earned a reputation for its thoughtful approach to design.
At the heart of Patti’s philosophy is the belief that exceptional design is a collaborative endeavor. She has cultivated lasting relationships with clients, architects, builders, craftspeople, and artists, bringing together talented professionals whose shared expertise contributes to the success of each project.
Equally important is the team she has assembled at Taste. Patti’s leadership has fostered an environment where creativity, curiosity, mentorship, and mutual respect are central to the firm’s culture.
Celebrating Excellence in Design
The IFDA New England Awards celebrate the individuals and achievements that contribute to the strength and vitality of the region’s design community. The annual gala brings together industry professionals to recognize excellence, leadership, and service within the field.
Patti’s Spotlight Award reflects not only her accomplishments as a designer and business owner, but also her commitment to advancing the profession through collaboration and engagement with the broader creative community.
Over the past two decades, her work has received numerous design awards and has been featured in publications including New England Home, Boston Design Guide, Ocean Home, Modern Luxury Interiors, and Rhode Island Monthly.
An Honor Shared with Team Taste
While the Spotlight Award recognizes Patti individually, its significance is felt throughout the entire Team Taste. Patti’s vision and leadership have shaped a firm of 20 women working together to create meaningful homes for their clients with a culture of mentorship and support.
We are delighted to see Patti recognized by her industry peers and grateful to the IFDA New England Chapter for this honor.
Please join us in congratulating Patti on her 2026 Spotlight Award!
