Sarah Barnard’s approach to collaborating with architects is centered on an empathy-led philosophy that prioritizes the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of a project’s inhabitants. As a WELL AP, LEED AP, and Certified California Naturalist, Sarah serves as a specialized partner connecting a building’s form and its lived experience, offering a collaborative process that honors the architect’s design intent, integrating wellness strategies and artisanal customization.  

Wellness, Sustainability, and Naturalist Support

Collaborative Vision & Wellness Integration: Partnering from the early stages helps connect interior environments as a seamless extension of the architect’s vision. The studio provides support in specifying sustainable materials and implementing biophilic strategies that help foster a sense of peace and security.  

WELL & LEED Consulting: Healthy material specifications and sustainability protocols, supporting architectural teams in meeting the rigorous standards of wellness and environmental certifications.

California Naturalist & Ecological Insights: Sarah’s certifications in California native plants and habitats provide insights that help unify the interior with the site’s specific ecology, creating a cohesive transition between the home and the surrounding landscape.

Specialized Space Planning: Programming for high-function areas, including kitchen design and bath design, as well as complex storage solutions and luxurious custom closets.

Specialized Technical Rooms: Dedicated environments for niche requirements, such as wellness rooms, therapy spaces, and custom studios for musicians and artists.

Inclusive & Universal Design Leadership

Universal Design & Accessibility: Extensive experience implementing aesthetically pleasing Universal Design principles, creating environments that are supportive of people of varied ages and abilities.

Disability-Specific Expertise: Experience designing for vision impairment, hearing impairment, and mobility impairment.

Neuroinclusive Environments: A specialized focus on Neuroinclusive Interior Design, including tailored spaces for Autistic people, Dyslexic people, people with ADHD, and people with sensory processing challenges.

Supportive Design for Children: Specialized environments for children with disabilities, balancing clinical needs with a nurturing, home sanctuary.

Interior Specification & Detailing

Custom Architectural Elements: Bespoke, site-specific features such as botanically inspired laser-cut stair railings, decorative screens, and custom cabinetry design to harmonize with the home’s geometry.

Custom Tile & Hard Surfaces: One-of-a-kind tile patterns and custom stone integrations for baths, kitchens, and feature walls, offering a level of material exclusivity and tactile richness.

Custom Textiles & Furnishings: The studio’s capacity to design custom textiles, area rugs, and wallcoverings offers a fully personalized interior experience, with patterns tailored to the project’s thematic elements, scale, and lighting.

Custom Light Fixture Design: Unique luminaires that complement the architectural scale, from sculptural installations to handmade ceramic, glass, or bronze pendants and wall sconces.

Fine Art Curating & Commissioning: The studio leverages Sarah's studio art background and network of fine artists and skilled artisans to curate works that align with the building’s architecture.

Interactive Material Evaluation: Providing architects and their clients with detailed material proofs, from custom metal finishes to textile prototypes, so that interior elements are attuned to the architectural palette.