2 California Design Pros Share Their Creative Process
Two on-the-rise pros share the creative process behind a space they designed.
Sarah Weichel
Photo: Austin Leis
This isn’t just any living room—it’s the heart of Swike Design principal Sarah Weichel’s own Atwater Village home. The Luxe Next In Design 99 talent welcomes us in.
The inspo: We aim to create spaces that have soul and character. I feel strongly about vintage furniture and I always try to come up with unexpected furnishing floor plans.
The stars: The ’70s Afra and Tobia Scarpa Soriana chair (upholstered in brushed wool) is a favorite of mine. It’s so comfortable, but still has an edge and cool factor to it. The Norma sculpture screen by Tim Vranken for Stahl + Band is the perfect way to fill what would have been dead space, and one of the few contemporary pieces here. The art is Sara Marlowe Hall from Tappan Collective.
The palette: Always go for a creamier white than you think! We chose creams and warm neutrals. Instead of black, we used charcoal, and we favored raw umber over green. That and limewashing the walls brought back the spirit of our 1920s Spanish abode.
Sarah Solis
Photo: Michael Clifford
In the primary bedroom of an L.A. home, bespoke pieces and lush materials sing in a design scheme by Luxe Next In Design 99 honoree Sarah Solis. She shares how this space came to be.
The inspo: The homeowner wanted design that felt luxurious but not flashy, and this space is the ultimate expression of that balance: a play between serene and sensual, and a haven from the busy city.
The stars: We’re all about creating restorative spaces that evoke emotion and inspiration, and celebrating the beauty of natural materials. Here, claro walnut and rich wood tones are a major element, inspired by masters like Isamu Noguchi and George Nakashima. Walls upholstered in panels of Pierre Frey linen, a custom Sarah Solis Design Studio bed and vintage lamps complete the effect.
The palette: To inspire a sense of calm, I utilized a restrained palette with singular bold moments and materials from the natural world. The gorgeous walnut brings a sense of grounding and warmth to this bedroom.