ABOUT US

 

Sarah Blackbern Interiors crafts rooms that feel effortless, personal, and enduring. We design homes that balance comfort with quiet sophistication—spaces you want to live in, not just look at.

Our approach

  • Intentional simplicity: We pare back the unnecessary and emphasize timeless elements that support everyday life.

  • Thoughtful function: Every decision supports how a space will be used—from traffic flow and lighting to storage and materials that wear well.

  • Subtle detail: Texture, proportion, and curated accents elevate a room without overwhelming it.

What we do

  • Full-service residential design: Concept through completion, including space planning, finishes, furniture selection, and project management.

  • Room refreshes: Targeted updates to improve flow, function, and aesthetic impact.

  • Custom pieces and fittings: Bespoke cabinetry, built-ins, and upholstery tailored to your home and lifestyle.

  • Consultation services: Short-term guidance for clients who want direction rather than full implementation.

Our process

  1. Discovery: We begin by listening—how you live, what matters, and the mood you want your home to convey.

  2. Plan: We translate that understanding into a cohesive concept with clear priorities, budgets, and timelines.

  3. Design: Selections and drawings bring the plan to life. We focus on materials and proportions that wear well and feel comfortable.

  4. Deliver: We manage installations and craftsmen, ensuring the final space reflects the original intent and functions beautifully.

Why clients choose us

  • Practical elegance: Clean, considered designs that prioritize livability.

  • Collaborative partnership: We guide decisions while respecting your tastes and needs.

  • Attention to longevity: Choices made to look and perform well over time.

About Sarah Sarah Blackbern founded the studio on a belief that great design should make daily life better. Her background blends classic design training with a pragmatic focus on how homes are actually used. Sarah leads each project with a disciplined eye for proportion, materiality, and comfort.

If you’re ready to create a home that tells your story—simple, functional, and quietly refined—we’d love to hear about your project.

 
 

 
 

Sarah Blackbern, Founder

Sarah was born and raised in Reno, Nevada where her passion for decorating and design started at a young age. Her career began early at the age of 18 working for a reputable design center, Functional Designs, in Reno, NV. Over the next 7 years she developed her knowledge of design, working her way up to become the lead showroom designer and buyer. She worked alongside many well-known designers, building trusting relationships as she assisted with many of their project needs.

Sarah took leave of absence but returned to design in 2015 working for a Reno-based design firm. There she expanded her knowledge, learning the importance of building professional relationships with contractors and craftsman, learning all aspects of the design process and project management. Shortly after, Sarah took a leap of faith and successfully launched her own design studio in 2017.

Sarah has an immense passion for design and making beautiful spaces. Her goal is to create a feeling when you walk into a room, to create a space you want to be in, hang out in, spend time in…and love for many years to come.

 

Michele Questell, Designer

Michele is a long-time resident of Reno, Nevada, moving from Southern California at an early age. Her career began working for an interior design group in Reno, where her passion for design was awakened.

Michele’s 20 + years of design experience includes 13 years as Design Selection Coordinator for a reputable, custom home builder in Reno. Her work encompassed - making preliminary selections with homeowners, managing pre-construction budgets, overseeing and implementing all final selections.

Michele’s passion and expertise lies in kitchen and bath design. She has a true gift for creating spaces that are not only functional but beautiful and timeless; all while being mindful of clients budget and time. Her greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the end result of everyone’s combined efforts, and the joy and appreciation of the client.