In the world of high-end Atlanta real estate, “glass box” high-rise living is undergoing a quiet revolution. Heading up this transformation is interior design expert Dina Varner. The cold black-and-white minimalism that once defined the city’s high-rises is being replaced by something different, filled with warmth and soul.
About Dina Varner:
The Atlanta-based interior designer and the founder and heart behind VPI Design has more than 25 years of design experience. Varner has become a go-to specialist for turning a standard high-rise into history, working with both residential and commercial clientele.
Layering Color, Texture, and Legacy:
“I am thrilled to see the return of color in 2026,” Varner says. “We are seeing beautiful applications of color combined with texture and layers, which adds incredible depth to my current projects.”
Walking into Varner’s VPI Design sanctuary feels like a meticulously thought-out oasis. The colors and textures mesh perfectly, integrating old and new design into quiet, cozy luxury—a skill Varner believes is essential for breathing soul into a “glass box” world.
“I find that incorporating a curated antique piece into a contemporary space helps create warmth,” Varner says. “This juxtaposition of old and new design, alongside modern furnishings, helps build a ‘story’ and a sense of history for the client.”
In a city as transformative as Atlanta, a home is more than just a residence; it is the foundation of a long-lasting legacy. To Varner, creating a legacy begins with how you express yourself through different design elements in your home. After all, home is where the heart is.
“I recommend using several different avenues to create a cozy environment in your home, such as fabrics for window treatments, rugs, ceilings with plaster and possibly color or a wall with textured paper,” Varner says. “These layers add essential warmth to the windows and walls, softening the overall aesthetic of the home.”
Dina Varner’s Take on the Evolution of Smart Home Technology:
As the future continues to evolve, Varner is always looking for ways to maintain a home’s traditional feel while staying up to date with current technological trends.
“I have found that simple smart home features tend to meet client expectations better. Lighting is the most impactful area of a smart home, with a sound system to follow,” Varner says. “These elements allow us to shift between warmth and coolness depending on the overall style of the unit.”
As Atlanta’s homes continue to reach new heights, Varner’s work is a friendly reminder that luxury isn’t just found in the address or the view; it is found on the inside through the intentional details of the interior design. Varner is redefining Southern living one high-rise at a time, creating soul within your home.
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