Bethenny Frankel has responded to online criticism of her new Florida home, featured in Architectural Digest, by highlighting her significant success in real estate. Despite some detractors calling her home "ugly" and comparing its decor to mass-market retailers, Frankel revealed she has profited over $12 million from flipping houses.
Key Takeaways
- Bethenny Frankel’s Florida home, featured in Architectural Digest, faced backlash for its decor.
- Critics labeled the home "ugly" and accused it of having a "HomeGoods aesthetic."
- Frankel countered by revealing over $12 million in real estate profits from flipping properties.
- She explained her design philosophy is investment-focused, prioritizing neutral tones for resale value.
Decor Backlash
Following the feature in Architectural Digest, which described Frankel’s Florida residence as "a streamlined, contemporary take on classic Floridian design," social media users were quick to voice their disapproval. Comments on platforms like Instagram and X ranged from calling the home "ugly" to questioning the magazine’s editorial choices. Many users felt the decor lacked taste and resembled items found in budget-friendly home goods stores.
Frankel’s Financial Rebuttal
In response to the negative comments, Frankel took to Instagram to share her impressive financial success in real estate. She stated that she has made over $12 million in profits from flipping houses in recent years. Frankel clarified that while she mixes high-end items with more accessible pieces, her design approach is primarily driven by investment potential.
Investment-Focused Design
Frankel explained that she designs homes with the intention of selling them, aiming for neutral palettes that potential buyers can easily envision themselves in. She mentioned purchasing her current Florida home for $4.2 million, with it now being valued at over $6 million, and projected a sale price of around $7 million in three years. She defended her choices, emphasizing that she is not "precious" about design and prioritizes practicality and resale value over elaborate, custom details.
Defending Brands and Editorial Choices
Frankel also addressed the accusations of using items from stores like HomeGoods or Wayfair, stating that while such brands are not in her home, they are legitimate, multi-billion dollar businesses. She defended Architectural Digest’s decision to feature her home, likening it to other high-profile features in fashion and business publications, suggesting that the magazine aims to inspire and offer attainable ideas to its readers.
A Final Word to Critics
Concluding her response, Frankel offered a parting shot to her critics, humorously suggesting that when she makes her $3 million profit from the current house, she might invite them for a latte. Her retort underscored her perspective that her home design is a calculated business venture rather than a purely aesthetic statement.
