B
ethenny Frankel fired back at the backlash that erupted after her Florida home was highlighted in Architectural Digest as a “streamlined, contemporary take on classic Floridian design.” The magazine’s Instagram post drew a torrent of scathing comments, with users calling the décor “ugly,” “HomeGoods‑style,” and even “Made in China dupes.” One remark read, “What in the HomeGoods is happening here?” while another mocked the inclusion of “roller blinds, accent‑wall wallpaper, a coffee table as a side table.” Critics also questioned AD’s decision to feature a reality star’s residence, citing the magazine’s editorial standards.

    In a Sunday Instagram video, Frankel revealed that she has earned more than $12 million from flipping houses. She clarified that the interior contains no HomeGoods or Wayfair pieces—though she defended both brands as billion‑dollar companies—and that her design choices are driven by investment logic. “I’m not the one who’s going to get in bone from China and inlay it onto my floor. I’m not that bitch,” she said, emphasizing that she prefers neutral tones that appeal to a broad audience and allow future buyers to project their own vision.

    The house was bought for $4.2 million, with a $1 million discount on a foreclosure, and is now valued at over $6 million. Frankel estimates it could fetch $7 million when her daughter Bryn heads to college. She also highlighted a marble waste basket that costs about $1,000, alongside more affordable Amazon finds, and noted that “highs and lows, baby” are part of the mix.

    Addressing the decision to feature her home, Frankel compared AD’s choice to Vogue’s 2014 cover of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian and to Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez’s upcoming Met Gala appearance. “AD is a business,” she said. “They want to inspire, entertain, engage, and give people something attainable.” She also clarified that she designs homes as investments, not as a display of preciousness.

    Her final jab at detractors was a snide offer: “When I make my $3 million on this house, maybe I’ll invite you for a latte.”