Broad Avenue Studios: Chair by Karen Larson-Murphy
Gulfshore Life’s Chairs for Charity features Broad Avenue Studios’ heartfelt piece by Karen Larson-Murphy, who drew inspiration from Youth Haven’s uplifting mission. She selected a mix of playful, comforting fabrics to mirror the organization’s supportive environment for children, creating a chair that feels fun, warm and full of heart—a whimsical design rooted in purpose.
DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT Q&A
Where did you find the vintage chair?
Our chair is actually a brand-new piece, thoughtfully designed to blend contemporary comfort with playful charm.
What were the materials used to redesign the chair?
We selected high-quality fabrics that are both durable and soft, ensuring the chair is inviting and comfortable while maintaining a premium look and feel.
Where did you find the inspiration for your chair design?
Youth Haven was our inspiration. We wanted the chair to reflect the spirit of the organization — fun, uplifting, and full of heart. The mix of fabrics mirrors Youth Haven’s playful, comforting environment for children, creating a piece that is both meaningful and whimsical.
What was the process of designing and putting together the chair?
The process included carefully reupholstering the back with custom stitching that incorporates Youth Haven’s slogan: “Home, Hope, Healing.” We also added a subtle metal plaque featuring the Youth Haven logo, making the chair a statement piece that embodies the mission of the organization.
How would you incorporate your chair into a space?
This chair works beautifully as a standalone accent piece in a cozy corner, adding both visual interest and functional comfort. Its playful design makes it a perfect addition to spaces that welcome warmth, creativity, and joy.
Photography by Anastasia Walborn
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karen larson murphy broad avenue studios chairs for charity
DESIGNER BIOGRAPHY: Karen Larson-Murphy
Founded by Karen Larson-Murphy in Naples, Florida, the studio was established by leveraging her extensive background in finance and luxury real estate development, which ultimately led her to interior design. Initially focused on high-end residential and commercial projects, it has significantly enhanced the well-being and lifestyles of its clients.
This team has been instrumental in elevating projects from concept to completion, ensuring each design meets the sophisticated needs of its discerning clientele. Broad Avenue’s reputation for exceptional design has also led to a broader reach, with successful residential and commercial interior design projects in Naples to Chicago, Nantucket, Washington, D.C., and Charleston, SC.
Beyond her work in interior design, Karen is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She serves as the Vice Chair at the Women’s Foundation of Collier County, where she actively supports initiatives to empower women and improve the quality of life for underserved populations in the region.