Our Story

Inspired by the sea and the country with touches of whimsy and elegance around every corner, Living Swell’s carefully curated, artisan-made goods are sourced locally and from around the world. Our unique finds offer a selection of items ranging from lighting, wall décor, furniture, tabletop pieces, clothing, and accessories. Our one-of-a-kind designs cater to our playful and sophisticated clientele. 

Consult with our design team and let us create a unique interior for you. We provide design solutions for cabinetry, custom furnishings, and window treatments to dream kitchens and everything in between. Our projects include commercial spaces, residential homes, multi-unit developments, and yacht interiors.

Come in, be inspired, shop, create, and enjoy.

Meet Diana

Diana James is an established interior designer based in Marblehead, Massachusetts, with a career spanning over two decades. She is the founder and principal designer of Living Swell, a design studio and boutique located on Washington Street in historic Old Town.

James's design philosophy emphasizes supporting local artisans and creating a lifestyle brand through her original point of view and aesthetic. She believes in designing with intent, trusting her instincts, and owning her style.

Through Living Swell, James transforms spaces, bringing a unique blend of elegance and coastal charm to her clients' interiors and renovations.

Meet the Team

  • Diana James

    Principal and Founder

  • Eugene

    Eugene Pintail

    Design Assistant

  • Cheryl Laundry

    Design Operations

  • Donna King

    Retail Manager

  • Devyn LaCamera

    Marketing Manager

PRESS

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  • Best of Design

    Honored to be named in the Top 50 Best of Design by Modern Luxury Magazine!

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  • Adventures from Living Swell

    Adventure plays a starring role in my interior design practice and is the backbone concept of my seaside chic boutique,

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  • Thoughts from an Interior Designer

    Diana shares her thoughts on Interior Design with Real Producers Real Estate Magazine.

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  • How to Create a Stylish Outdoor Living Space

    Now’s the time to turn your backyard or patio into a cozy, comfortable retreat.

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  • Diana James Offers Advice on Living Swell

    If you walked into Living Swell, the Marblehead boutique owned by veteran designer Diana James, and didn’t want to leave

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  • Designer Diana James’s Reading Retreat

    Designer Diana James’s imagined client for this book-lover’s library is a sophisticated woman who needs an occasional escape from her busy life. 

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  • Living Swell Transformation - Yacht Edition

    Recent work by Interior Designer Diana James and her team at Living Swell, featuring stunning before and after images.

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  • Hidden Gem

    Living Swell is a boutique that specializes in artisan-made goods and interior design.

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  • 2022 Marblehead Holiday Shopping Guide

    See what Marblehead businesses are offering this holiday season on the 2022 Marblehead Chamber of Commerce Holiday Shopping Guide with Jon Caswell of MHTV.

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  • Living Swell offers ‘timeless, coastal vibe’

    The following is an interview with Diana James, owner of Living Swell, conducted by Discover Marblehead.

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  • Living Swell & Discover Marblehead

    Living Swell & Discover Marblehead

    Living Swell is proud to be featured with other local businesses in our charming seaside town.

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