Sara Gilbane is an interior designer with a strong reputation for classic contemporary designs, working from her firm Sara Gilbane Interiors. Sara combines elegance with youthful flair to create warm and comfortable homes for clients. She was exposed to architecture and design from a very early age, as her father was a nationally recognised developer. She has also been named one of the Top 20 Next Wave Designers by House Beautiful. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Sara Gilbane.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I don’t like to assign a particular style to myself but hope that I am taking my clients style and lifestyle into consideration and putting it through my filter. There is always pattern, color, and personality in all rooms I design.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I like to listen to the space and take into consideration the surroundings and the intended use for the space. I usually have a jumping off point which can be a beloved painting, fabric, rug, or piece of furniture.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I adore all of my vendors and artists I work with as they truly bring a unique perspective to the task at hand and enrich my projects so much more. I have always loved a collaboration and working with talented upholsterer’s, artists, and furniture makers makes it that much more fun and layered.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
Inspiration comes from many sources for me but I love reviewing old tear outs from magazines and discussing projects with my team in the office. Talking through the space with clients and my team creates the most interesting finished product.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I credit Celerie Kemble for jump starting me and teaching me everything about the business. She is a creative genius and loves color as do I. Working with her and (fellow designer) Christina Murphy taught me the power of brainstorming and seeing a room come together in many different ways. Now, in my own office, I try to hire people who share a love of design, color, and creating spaces. Seeing the work of fellow designers is always inspiring and keeps me on my toes.
