We recently had the chance to connect with Sarah West and have shared our conversation below.
Sarah , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I start my day early, usually spending the first 90 minutes alone in the studio. I use this quiet time to plan the day, reflect on the week ahead, and fine-tune our team’s task lists. It’s a focused window where I can think strategically before the day gains momentum. Afterward, I meet with the design team for a daily review, check in with contractors and trades, and address client communications.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the principal designer of Sarah West Interiors, a full-service design studio based in Los Angeles. We’re a boutique team of four, specializing in luxury interiors with an artistic, highly personalized approach. From the initial design concept to construction management and final installation, we’re involved in every step with intention.
Our work is rooted in materiality and texture, creating serene, layered spaces that feel deeply personal. Every project is shaped by the individual client, and I stay closely involved throughout , ensuring the finished work reflects the thought, craftsmanship, and character that define our studio.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I started my design business unintentionally during COVID. Like many others, I was laid off at the start of the pandemic due to market uncertainty. Not long after, an opportunity came along to complete a remodel — and I took it. I poured everything into that project, working harder than I ever had, often late into the night. That experience laid the foundation for my brand and ultimately launched Sarah West Interiors.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
In those early days, I had a lot of long conversations with my grandpa. He was a businessman and became a mentor to me as I was figuring things out. His advice and perspective were instrumental in helping me build the business side of things — something I had to learn quickly. Those conversations gave me both direction and confidence as I took those first steps.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
My view of success has evolved over the years. Early on, I thought growth meant building a large team and taking on more projects. But over time, I realized that success, for me, is about balance. It took some trial and error to understand what pace and scale feel right and to trust that quality and intention matter more than volume.
I’ve experienced different phases of growth, but through it all, I’ve stayed focused on delivering thoughtful, high-quality work. That consistency is what defines success for me now.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m definitely doing what I was born to do — it just took me a little time to find it. I’ve always been creative. As a kid, I was constantly drawing, tagging along with my dad on construction sites, and helping with little home projects. I didn’t know it was “design” at the time, but looking back, it was always there.
When I moved to LA, I was exploring a few different creative paths, trying to figure out what felt right. I knew I didn’t want a corporate job — I’ve always wanted to build something of my own. Then I tagged along with a friend to a design meeting, and it just clicked. I knew right away: this is what I’m meant to do.
I’ve carved out this path on my own, and shaped the business in a way that feels good — creatively and personally. That’s what makes it meaningful for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sarahwestinteriors.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahwestinteriors/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-west-22222a133
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahwestinteriors
Image Credits
Headshot: Bahareh Ritter
Interior Images: Nils Timm
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
