We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sarah Riley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Sarah, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
Creativity, for me, is less about inspiration and more about intentional exposure and refinement. I make it a priority to regularly step outside of my own projects to visit suppliers, artisan workshops, and creator studios. Being in proximity to true craftsmanship sharpens your eye in a way nothing else can.
I also approach each project through a design-thinking framework. Every space presents its own set of constraints and opportunities, and I’m constantly exploring multiple ways to resolve them—testing ideas, iterating quickly, and allowing the strongest concept to emerge rather than forcing a predetermined outcome.
At the core of my process is a sense of balance. In every project, I look for opportunities to layer something old, like a collected piece, an heirloom, or a natural element, with something new. I like to introduce at least one element that gently challenges the client’s comfort zone, because that’s often where the most memorable spaces are created. Just as important is anchoring the design in something that feels unmistakably like them.
When those elements come together seamlessly, the result is a space that feels thoughtful and deeply individual. That ongoing pursuit of nuance is what keeps creativity alive for me. It’s not static, it’s a discipline that evolves with every project and every client.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m the founder of Vibe Cabinetry and Design, a design studio specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, and built-ins, rooted in craftsmanship and a highly considered point of view. Our work is less about following a formula and more about creating spaces that reflect how our clients live and what matters to them.
What I find most exciting about this work is the intersection of creativity and problem-solving. Every project comes with its own set of constraints, and I genuinely enjoy working through those layers to arrive at something that truly works. There’s a moment in every project where all the pieces click, and you can see that the space is going to not only look beautiful but function in a way that supports everyday life. That’s the part that never gets old for me.
Recently, I’ve opened a brick-and-mortar design studio, which has allowed me to take a more holistic approach to each project. In addition to cabinetry, we’re designing and sourcing custom furniture, collaborating closely with artisans, and bringing in materials that add depth and individuality. These pieces are often what give a space its character and allow it to feel evolved over time rather than installed all at once.
What sets our work apart is the level of thought behind every decision. I’m always considering how a space will be experienced day to day—how it functions, how it feels, and how it holds up over time.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, there are a few qualities that have had the biggest impact on my journey.
The first is what I would describe as quiet persistence. I’ve always believed that just because I don’t know how to do something yet doesn’t mean I won’t figure it out. That mindset is what led me into renovation, to getting my general contractor’s license, and to learning how to design cabinetry layouts. It’s about staying with the problem long enough to understand it, being patient with yourself while you make mistakes, and being humble enough to ask for help or seek out training when you need it.
The second is openness. Early on, I realized that my first solution is rarely my best one. Some of the strongest ideas come from collaboration. Partners, suppliers, and contractors often bring a level of experience and perspective that can push a project further than you could on your own. Being willing to listen, adapt, and refine your thinking is what ultimately leads to better outcomes.
The third is creativity, but not in the way people often think about it. For me, creativity is a discipline. It’s about constantly observing, refining your eye, and approaching each project with intention. It allows you to move beyond the expected and create something that feels truly personal.
For anyone early in their journey, my advice would be to stay in it longer than feels comfortable. Don’t rush to have all the answers. Be willing to learn as you go, ask questions, and remain open to input. Over time, that combination of persistence, humility, and curiosity is what builds both confidence and capability.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
Our ideal client is someone who values thoughtful, well-executed design and understands that creating a truly beautiful space takes time and care. They are less focused on trends and more interested in creating something that reflects how they live.
They trust the process. Many of our clients come to us knowing how they want their home to feel, but not necessarily how to get there. They are open to collaboration and willing to explore ideas that may be slightly outside of their initial comfort zone, because they understand that’s often where the most meaningful results come from.
We also work best with clients who pay attention to how things are made. Whether it’s custom cabinetry, a one-of-a-kind furniture piece, or a material that adds depth to a space, they value the difference between something that is simply installed and something that is thoughtfully designed and built.
At the end of the day, the best projects come from a shared perspective. When a client values quality, individuality, and long-term thinking as much as we do, it allows us to create spaces that feel lasting and truly their own.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vibecabinetry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vibecabinetry
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcriley/
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