A beloved figure in Palm Beach, Pauline Pitt has been part of the island’s fabric for decades. Born in New York City, she lived in South Africa and later London, where she co-owned the Pimlico shop Treasure Island, before returning to the United States in 1976 to establish a decorating practice that would take her from Manhattan to Greece and finally to Florida, with her work appearing in House & Garden, House Beautiful, Veranda, and Architectural Digest. Today, Pitt divides her time between Palm Beach and Montana, while remaining deeply involved in the island’s social and cultural life. She serves on the Board of the Civic Association, is Chairman Emeritus of the Board of the Preservation Foundation, is Chairman of the Board of the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, and continues to guide the William H. Pitt Foundation, established in honor of her late husband.
Her Palm Beach roots run deep and so does her affection for the island. As she puts it, “For selfish reasons, I am sad that Palm Beach is discovered! It was the best kept secret until COVID… My “own little heaven” is sadly no longer. It is on lips world wide!” Still, the love is unwavering. “I have come here all my life. You have no idea of cousins and friends who said “I will never come live in Palm Beach.’ Hmm, they sure changed their minds, they are all here!”
Below, Pitt shares five things she loves about Palm Beach.
1. Friends, Old and New
I love that I have so many long standing friends in Palm Beach and then so many new ones! After all, we live in Paradise!
2. The People Who Keep Palm Beach Running
I love the island for all the people I know who officially run Palm Beach, like the long string of Mayors (some very related to each other) and the Town Council who I am so proud of, with endless patience.
3. The Safety
I love how safe it is in Palm Beach!
4. The Restaurants
My favorites are probably: Club Colette, The Honor Bar, La Goulue and Le Bilboquet.
5. Phipps Ocean Park
What we are going to love and what I love already is how spectacular Phipps Ocean Park is becoming, particularly with the Preservation Foundation bringing back so many native plants.
