Talk Shop: Sarah Stacey // Sarah Stacey Interior Design
ABOUT SARAH
Sarah Stacey’s love for design began in childhood, joining trips to antique auctions where she learned to see beauty beyond fleeting trends. Growing up in Louisiana, she was immersed in the rich styles of New Orleans and Baton Rouge, fostering an appreciation for bold, eclectic design. Later, her travels expanded her perspective, dissolving any notions of a conservative approach and inspiring the foundation of Sarah Stacey Interior Design.
Now known for her mastery of playful layering, Sarah creates spaces that feel both timeless and refreshingly unexpected. With a keen eye for balance and contrast, she seamlessly blends eclectic elements to design dynamic residential and commercial interiors. Each project reflects her cultivated taste and talent for drawing out her clients’ personal styles, allowing them to evolve naturally throughout the process.
Sarah now calls Texas home, where she lives with her husband, a touring rock musician, and their son. Their vibrant lifestyle infuses her work with energy, joy, and fearless creativity—hallmarks of her signature bold and layered designs.
Describe your style in three words or less:
Immersive, emotive, delightful.
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
I was lucky to grow up in South Louisiana, where I had access to and went to things like antiques auctions and was constantly inspired by the stunning architecture and culture of New Orleans. Traveling has taught me that different styles and eras can blend beautifully—you don't have to choose just one. Exploring interiors and architecture from various times and places allows you to study unique details and discover how to seamlessly combine them in real life. My clients inspire me to see things through new perspectives, they really are my Muses!
How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:
After 10 years in advertising, I started my company because I was captivated by interior design. As a creator and artist, it felt natural to channel my love for beautiful things into designing interiors for others who share my passion for antiques, textiles, and artwork. Surrounding myself with beauty brings me so much joy, and I’m dedicated to creating that same sense of happiness for my clients.
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
I’ve learned so much from antique dealers and designers who taught me to trust my instincts, value craftsmanship, and focus on what moves me and my clients rather than following trends.
What does your home say about you:
My home is full of color, texture, and sentimental pieces that mean so much to me—along with plenty of toys and crayons! It’s not overly polished—it's layered, personal, and full of life.
Where do you find inspiration:
I find inspiration everywhere—even in the garden, through the delicate beauty of butterflies and flowers. I’m especially drawn to artwork, vintage markets, architecture, travel, and discovering how other designers approach their work in ways I hadn’t considered before. Inspiration truly has no limits!
Who are your style icons:
Alessandro Michele is a big one. He was the former creative director at Gucci and is now at Valentino. His look is so authentically him, and I can’t wait to see what he does at Valentino!
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
Overall, it is about creating a space where people feel comfortable to be themselves in, but a great place to start is with good lighting and a mix of music that sets the tone. I also love a theme and/or conversation cards that break the ice and allow for a natural topic of conversation.
Do you collect anything:
I’ve unintentionally amassed quite a collection of chairs—especially vintage dining chairs in mismatched sets. I also have a growing art collection that I love and cherish.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:
Anything that does not post AI, ha! @theworldofinteriors, @themaximalistdreamer, and @historichousehunters.
What design “rule” do you always follow, and which is made to be broken:
Space planning rules are non-negotiable for me—they’re what make a room work from a functionality point of view. Outside of these, I think most other rules– especially those that you constantly hear about mixing patterns or colors– are there to be broken!
What are you working on right now:
I am thrilled to be working on a boutique hospitality project in Nashville– my second project in the city. I am also working on a collection of wallpaper and fabric patterns, which has been such a fun addition to working on interiors. And a home in the Texas Hill Country! It’s a renovation and the architecture is very French. The client is adding on some additional structures to the property in a way where the original section will actually look like the newer piece of architecture, and then the new spaces will be made to look like they are a lot older.
Wardrobe staples:
I always have one statement piece. Typically, it is either earrings or a vintage piece of clothing like a dress or coat. I am always in black boots, currently, it’s my lace-up Docs typically paired with a Gucci bag.
Favorite fabric/wallpaper:
Right now, we’re loving Décor Barbares—their designs are inspired by vintage Soviet fabrics, which feel so unique and unexpected. The fabric itself is fantastic! For wallpaper, Adelphi is a favorite because their patterns are classic and historic, but the color palettes are fresh, and the print detail is outstanding.
Best interior advice you ever received:
If it doesn’t function, it is not pretty. It is as simple as that!
Best career advice you ever received:
Your perspective is your greatest strength—trust it, refine it, and let it guide everything you do.
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
I always invest in upholstery—it’s worth it for something that lasts. I save by buying vintage– from lighting to artwork– because you can get incredible quality and character for much less than if you were to buy new pieces of the same “standard.” Of course, some vintage can definitely still be pricey, but it is an actual investment as it has proven its value over time already. Your vintage and antiques will retain their value, and sometimes, they will increase. So I guess it’s both a savings and an investment!
Your greatest extravagance:
I found an antique Palissy vase at the Paris flea market. It has snakes for handles, lily pads, and even tiny bugs—it’s completely over the top, and I absolutely love it.
Favorite places to shop for home:
As you might have guessed, I absolutely love antique malls and vintage stores, whether they are somewhere in a bustling city, in a country town, or at the iconic flea markets in Paris. I often buy vintage artwork from Gillian Bryce, and for upholstery, Kravet is my go-to manufacturer.
Most prized possession and why:
I actually don’t have one! I have a lot of stuff, and I love all of it!
Your interiors motto:
Design spaces that invite people in and make them feel something.
Your life motto:
Find beauty in the unexpected and trust your instincts.
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
Pay attention to what you truly love, not what you think you’re supposed to like. Trust your instincts—they’ll guide you to something authentic.
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: Neapolitan pizza! I love the simplicity of fresh ingredients combined with the perfect charred crust—it’s a balance of tradition and indulgence.
Alcoholic Drink: A Sidecar. It’s timeless, elegant, and has just the right blend of tangy and smooth. It feels like a little celebration in a glass.
Film: It’s a toss-up between The Never Ending Story and Labyrinth. Both capture that perfect mix of whimsy, nostalgia, and bold imagination—like stepping into a dream world.
Hotel: Hotel Peter and Paul in New Orleans. It’s such a beautifully restored property that was A historic church, school house, rectory, and convent. And is There is a monastic theme that runs throughout but the Elysian bar is draped in checkeclectic, bohemian, and romantic,. now a strong sense of history and charm. Every detail feels intentional and steeped in character.
City: Barcelona. The architecture, the energy, the food—everything about it feels alive with creativity and culture.
Bedding: Matouk. Their linens are beautifully made and so soft! They are our go-to when sourcing sheets.
Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): Coffee! I love cold brew with a splash of creamer—simple, refreshing, and exactly what I need to kickstart my day.
Playlist: ‘80s and ‘90s dark wave—anything with a heavy synthesizer. It’s moody, nostalgic, and endlessly inspiring.
Weekend Activity: Spending time with my family and working in the garden. There’s something so grounding about digging in the dirt and watching things grow—it’s the perfect way to recharge.