Vanessa Watts and Erika Dray launched Watts & Dray to create delightful hospitality spaces. The studio opened in 2022 with a project to design a one-of-a-kind supper club in San Diego's vibrant Gaslamp District. This project defined their studio’s north star: to craft spaces that are exceptional by virtue of their very special materials and objects. This design model makes revenue generating destinations.

Specializing in full-service hospitality design, Watts & Dray offers a comprehensive range of services, including interior design, furniture design, art curation, uniform design, branding, and design styling. It is the mission of the studio to push boundaries and captivate audiences. From luxurious resorts to cutting-edge nightclubs, their portfolio reflects a commitment to excellence and an ability to deliver outstanding results. With each project, Watts & Dray is shaping a new future for luxury design. Watts & Dray is a certified Woman-Owned Business in New York.

Hit us up: hello@watts-dray.com

  • VANESSA WATTS: CREATIVE DIRECTOR

    Vanessa's journey unfolds from a foundation in visual arts and Interior Design. With a design education from Pratt Institute and a wealth of experience garnered at leading NYC design firms, she has overseen the creation of over 30 prominent hospitality projects nationwide.

    Licenses:

    • NCIDQ Certified

    • State of Nevada Board of Architecture, Interior Design and Residential Design, Licensed Interior Designer

    • State of Florida Board of Architecture & Interior Design, Licensed Interior Design

    Education:

    • Bachelor of Liberal Arts - Temple University, Philadelphia, PA

    • Master of Interior Design - Pratt Institute, New York, NY

    Selected Projects:

    • Pelham Hotel, New Orleans

    • Battery Maritime Hotel, NYC, NY

    • Westin Times Square, NYC, NY

    • Dolphin Hotel, Orlando, FL

    • Stayton Room, Lexington Hotel, NYC

    • Komodo Restaurant & Lounge, Miami, FL

    • Liv Nightclub, Miami, FL

  • ERIKA DRAY: MANAGING DIRECTOR

    Erika brings a unique blend of visual artistry and expertise in Fashion and Jewelry Design. With a career spanning two decades, she has served as a Technical Designer and Project Manager at prestigious NYC fashion houses. In 2007, Erika launched her namesake jewelry line, acclaimed for its sculptural allure and artistic finesse.

    Education:

    • Bachelor of Science - State University of New York at Oneonta

    • American Intercontinental University, London, England

    Selected Clients:

    • Calvin Klein

    • Simon Miller

    • Champion

    • Kendall and Kylie

    • Nautica

    • Betsey Johnson