Divya Debra Barter grew up in Southern California where her family transplanted from the midwest during the great migration to the San Fernando Valley. After five years at UC Berkeley (English) and UCLA (French) she began working in the design industry and moved to Venice, California where the once seedy beach town was growing into a recognized art community. Some additional study and years training in architectural firms made her realize her true love: interior design. She began freelancing and working for her mentor John Fleming Interiors in Palos Verdes.

Curiosity drew her to study and work abroad - first in India, then in Paris. Eventually she relocated to Sedona, Arizona, where she’s been designing interiors since 1999. She lives in a 65-year-old ranch house and studio which she shares with her tortie cat Marguerita.