Designing a Home: More Than Picking Colors and Furniture – It’s About Weaving a Story Unique to Each Client

As an interior designer, people often ask me what my job entails. The immediate response might seem like a simple one: I help people choose colours, furniture, and decor. But the truth is, designing a home is so much more than that. It’s about understanding the people who live there, their dreams, their needs, and their stories—and then weaving all of that into a space that reflects who they are and how they want to live.

At SJ Interior Designs, we pride ourselves not just on creating beautiful interiors, but on crafting deeply personal environments that tell a unique story for each of our clients. It’s this process of discovery, collaboration, and transformation that makes interior design so much more than just a profession—it’s a rewarding journey that is truly one of a kind.

A Home Should Reflect Who You Are

When you walk into a home, it should feel like an extension of the people who live there. It should speak to their personality, values, and lifestyle. But how do you bring that essence into a physical space?

For me, the magic happens when I get to know the client on a deeper level. Sure, they might want a certain colour palette, but why that colour? What emotions does it evoke for them? What kind of atmosphere do they want their home to have—cozy and intimate, bright and energising, or peaceful and calming? It’s not just about creating a look; it’s about capturing a feeling and designing a space that supports it.

For example, one client might ask for a modern, minimalist space with clean lines and neutral tones. As we dive into their lifestyle, I discover they love to entertain guests and have an extensive collection of art that is meaningful to them. From this conversation, the design starts to evolve—while keeping things clean and contemporary, I incorporate art display solutions, sculptural furniture, and elements that encourage conversation and connection.

Each project is about telling a unique story, whether through colour choices, materials, or furniture. That’s what makes each project different and why it’s such a fulfilling experience for me as a designer.

The Journey of Understanding Dreams

Designing a home starts with a conversation. It begins with understanding the dreams of my clients—what do they envision for their space? How do they want it to feel when they walk in? What activities will take place in this room? What do they want to celebrate or evoke in their surroundings?

Some clients know exactly what they want, while others come to me unsure of how to bring their ideas together. Regardless of where they start, the goal is always to create something that speaks to them. This journey of understanding their dreams, preferences, and priorities is an essential part of the process. The deeper I can get into their vision, the better I can guide them toward the right design decisions that align with their lifestyle and values.

As an example, I worked with a couple who had recently moved to a new city and were starting over. They wanted their home to reflect their journey together and celebrate the growth of their family. We used materials and design elements that connected with their love for travel and culture, incorporating handmade textiles from their favourite destinations and pieces that reflected their shared memories. We also designed a cozy nook where they could unwind together, a quiet place for family time that reflected their commitment to each other and their home.

Creating a Space that Evolves with You

What excites me most about interior design is how it can evolve with you. Life is constantly changing, and so are the needs of your home. As I work with my clients, I help them think not just about their present needs, but also about the future. What will this space look like as their family grows? How can this design adapt as their children get older, or as their tastes shift?

The beauty of good design is that it can flex and evolve. At SJ Interior Designs, we aim to create spaces that are timeless but also adaptable. We carefully choose durable materials that age gracefully, furniture that can grow with the family, and layouts that allow for flexibility. This is where the artistry of design comes in—the ability to create something that feels personal and timeless, yet functional and sustainable over the long term.

Design is a Collaborative Process

One of the things I love most about my job is the collaboration. Yes, I bring the expertise and vision to the table, but the process is always a team effort between me and my clients. Every project is a partnership, where their thoughts, dreams, and feedback guide the direction of the design.

I believe the best designs come from a deep understanding of the people I’m working with. That means listening to their stories, understanding their struggles, and really paying attention to what they’re trying to achieve. It’s not just about picking out items—it’s about making their home feel like their space, a place that holds memories, supports their needs, and reflects who they are as individuals and as a family.

For example, I once worked with a family who was blending two different cultures under one roof. They wanted to create a space that honoured both of their backgrounds while offering a sense of unity. We worked together to blend traditional elements with modern touches, merging different design styles to create a home that was as unique as their story. The process of finding harmony between their two styles was a true collaboration, and the end result was a home that celebrated both heritage and modernity.

The Reward of Transforming a Space

The satisfaction that comes from transforming a space is unparalleled. It’s not just about changing the appearance of a room, but about enhancing the experience of the people who live there. It’s about giving them a space that nurtures their well-being, encourages productivity, fosters relationships, and allows them to truly relax.

Seeing my clients light up when they walk into a space that truly feels like them is what makes my job incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s a family who finally has a space to gather and bond, a professional who has a home office that promotes focus and creativity, or a couple who has crafted a home that reflects their shared life, the emotional payoff of the design process is what drives me to continue doing what I love.

A Home Should Be More Than a House

At SJ Interior Designs, our philosophy is that a home should be more than just a physical structure—it should be a reflection of the lives that unfold within it. Every design is an opportunity to tell a story, a chance to create something deeply personal and meaningful. It’s about combining aesthetics with function, but more than that, it’s about creating a space that is a true extension of the people who call it home.

Designing isn’t just about making a space look good; it’s about making it feel right. It’s about creating a space where clients feel seen, understood, and most importantly, at home. And that, to me, is what makes interior design the most rewarding journey of all.

So, when you step into a room designed by SJ Interior Designs, know that it’s not just about the furniture or the colour scheme—it’s about the story that has been thoughtfully woven together, reflecting your unique vision and making your home a place you truly love