How Sustainable Interiors Transform the Way We Live
Wild Party Podcast Interview with Sarah Walker, Founder of Nuance Interior Design
Q: Sarah, can you share a bit about how you discovered your passion for interior design?
Absolutely. I knew at just 12 years old that I wanted to be an interior designer. At a
youth career fair, I met a designer who described the traits of people who thrive in this
field—rearranging furniture, noticing crooked artwork, being drawn to beautiful spaces.
Everything resonated. I realized then how deeply our surroundings affect our emotions
and well-being, and I was inspired to create environments that uplift people’s daily lives.
Q: How did your education and early career shape your design approach today?
I interned with a luxury designer in high school, which confirmed my love for high-end
residential work. From there, I pursued an accredited interior design degree with an
emphasis in business and a minor in art. Studying abroad in Italy exposed me to
timeless architecture and craftsmanship, which now influence my work blending modern
design with classical forms. My career included luxury vacation homes and store design
for Nordstrom, where I managed over 140 projects nationwide. Each experience refined
my eye and taught me how to create cohesive spaces that balance beauty and
functionality.
Q: Your work often emphasizes sustainability. What does that mean in the context of luxury design?
Luxury is more than aesthetics—it’s about thoughtful curation and long-term value. For
us, sustainability means sourcing materials that are beautiful, non-toxic, and ethically
produced. We partner with European and U.S. brands that meet rigorous environmental
standards, avoiding harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and prioritizing renewable
resources. Clients come to us for elevated design, but they also appreciate knowing
their home supports their health and the planet.
Q: How do you handle client requests for materials that may not align with your sustainability standards?
Education is key. We explain why certain materials—like carpets or cabinets with toxic
glues—can compromise health or indoor air quality. Once clients understand that,
they’re eager for alternatives. Over 90% of our lives are spent indoors, so breathing
clean air and avoiding harmful finishes is non-negotiable. We always find beautiful,
high-quality options that meet both the client’s vision and wellness goals.
Q: Speaking of wellness, how do you incorporate it into your designs?
Wellness is at the core of everything we do. It’s about creating sanctuaries where
people feel restored. Tangible elements might include steam showers, infrared saunas,
aromatherapy systems, and kitchens designed for healthy cooking. We also integrate
biophilic design—bringing nature indoors through organic materials, natural light, and
views of greenery. Even lighting design and neuroaesthetic principles—understanding
how shapes and textures affect the brain—play a role in creating spaces that lower
stress and promote calm.
Q: You’ve mentioned the “museum box” trend. What are your thoughts on it?
The museum box trend—stark, minimal interiors in sharp lines and all white or
chrome—is striking but often feels unwelcoming. Homes should reflect the people who
live in them. We prioritize texture, warmth, and personal elements that invite you in and
tell a story. Our goal is to create a home where every detail feels intentional yet lived in.
Q: Luxury means different things to different people. How do you define it?
For me, luxury is personalized design. It’s not about imposing a signature style; it’s
about celebrating the client’s personality and creating an environment that supports how
they live. Luxury is also the process—the white-glove experience where we handle
every detail from concept to installation, reducing stress so clients can simply enjoy their
home. The result is beauty with depth: high-quality materials, seamless technology, and
an enduring sense of comfort.
Q: Multi-generational living is on the rise. How are you designing for families who share homes across generations?
We’re seeing two trends. One is international families, especially in tech, who build
homes with multiple suites or accessory dwelling units (ADUs) for parents or
grandparents. The other is legacy homes—retirement builds designed for children and grandchildren to gather. These spaces include primary and junior suites with en-suite baths, flexible layouts for privacy, and universal design elements like wheelchair- accessible bathrooms. It’s about creating connection while honoring individual needs.
Q: How do you guide clients through your design process?
We begin by inviting clients to our 3,000-square-foot showroom, where they can touch
and experience curated materials firsthand. From there, we discuss their goals,
priorities, and inspirations. Our process includes concept development, detailed
renderings, and full-service project management in collaboration with architects and
builders. Every decision, from flooring to hardware, is handled with precision. Clients
can be as involved or hands-off as they wish—we streamline everything to make the
journey enjoyable and stress-free.
Q: For designers new to the luxury market, what advice would you offer?
Gain experience and lean into what excites you most. Formal education is important,
but it’s repetition and exposure to different project types that refine your skills.
Specializing in areas like wellness, sustainability, or inclusive design can set you apart.
Most importantly, stay true to your values and let them shape your work—clients feel
that authenticity.
Q: Where can people learn more about your work?
You can explore our portfolio and services at nuanceinteriors.com or follow us on
Instagram at @nuanceinteriors for our latest projects and inspiration.
