Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chelsea Ruitenberg. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Chelsea, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Finding my purpose in design has definitely not been a straight path—it’s been a winding one, full of growth and discovering what truly lights me up. Both my grandfather and father were in the design business, and growing up around their design-build firm on the East Coast was like having a front-row seat to the magic of transforming spaces. Watching them create everything from window displays to large-scale commercial projects planted a seed early on. But my path didn’t start in interiors. I began my career in fashion, working at the corporate rag & bone offices in NYC. It was fast-paced and creative, and I loved watching a simple material become an incredibly designed garment. But over time, I realized my passion wasn’t in the actual clothes—it was in the incredible spaces where the runway shows and photo shoots happened.
That curiosity led me to dive deeper into the world of interiors. I’ve always had an eye for putting rooms together and a natural love for creating environments that feel warm, functional, and inspiring. The more I learn, the more I realize that design is about more than just making something look good. It’s about creating spaces that feel like home, that tell a story, and that make people feel something. That’s the purpose I’ve found in my work—to craft spaces that connect people to a sense of comfort and beauty in their everyday lives.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I design thoughtful, inviting spaces that feel like home and are deeply rooted in nature. My work blends organic materials, health-conscious choices, and timeless design to create environments that support well-being and reflect the people who live or work in them. What excites me most is the chance to tell a story through design. Whether it’s a serene yoga studio, a cozy living room, or a busy café, I focus on using natural textures and responsibly sourced materials to craft spaces that are beautiful, functional, and sustainable. At the heart of my work is a passion for creating environments where people can thrive—places that nurture connection, inspire calm, and last for years to come.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Adaptability, a strong work ethic, and a strong support system <b>Adaptability: </b>My path hasn’t been linear, and being able to pivot has been crucial. I had to get comfortable being uncomfortable (ie: having a part time job in the first year of starting your own business is NOT failing). The more flexible you are in the beginning, the more open you’ll be to discovering what you’re truly passionate about.
<b>Work Ethic: </b>Building anything worthwhile takes A LOT of time and effort. My background in production and project management taught me the importance of hard work and extreme organization. Prior to launching, I obsessed over understanding and creating processes. Taking classes in 3D rendering, design management and listening to ALL the podcasts helped me lay the initial foundation for how I wanted to run my business.
<b>Support: </b>Having a strong support system has made all the difference in my journey. My partner (and our dog), friends, and family have encouraged me through the ups and downs, and their belief in me has been a constant source of motivation. For anyone beginning their path, surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you—it will keep you grounded and give you the confidence to keep going (even at those “wtf am i doing” moments)
My advice for those early in their journey is to be patient with yourself and focus on the process rather than the destination. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Every step, no matter how small, is part of your growth. There is no such thing as mistakes only lessons!
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal clients value thoughtful, well-crafted design but might not have the time or expertise to manage the process themselves. They care about their health and well-being, prioritizing spaces that support a holistic, balanced lifestyle. They love good design and appreciate how a beautiful environment can enhance daily life—but they might feel overwhelmed by all the details it takes to bring that vision to life. They don’t need to know exactly what they want but are open-minded, collaborative, and excited to trust the process!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chelsea-interiordesign.com
- Instagram: @chelseainteriordesign
Image Credits
Photographer : Charlotte Lea Photography
