Sarah Akbary, principal designer of Sarah Akbary Interiors, approaches design with a passion for people and the spaces they inhabit. Her designs cater to the fundamental needs of her clients, but in a way that elevates the daily experience and creates a sense of place for life’s moments–both the everyday and extraordinary. Sarah’s dual emphasis on function and style is palpable in the peaceful spaces she creates, with a modern sensibility and unfussy style. To Sarah, a successfully designed home is one that not only looks good but that feels good to live in. Mindful uses of materials, clever details, bespoke furnishings and curated accessories are hallmarks of her work, lending a clarity and purity to her sophisticated design solutions. See how Sarah blends function with stunning design in today’s Designer Friday.
Marble veining climbs the walls and anchors the fluted pedestal table, while a constellation of glass bubbles overhead turns the chandelier into a sculptural centerpiece.
Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Sarah Akbary: From a young age, I was drawn to making spaces beautiful and harmonious, whether it was color-coding my room, styling shelves, or helping my mom host and set the table. That instinct to create order and beauty in a home came naturally. Watching my mom’s eye for design deeply influenced me, and over time, I realized I could turn that passion into a business.
AJ: How do you approach a new design project?
SA: I always start by visiting the client’s home and getting a feel for the architecture and energy of the space, and of course, making sure there’s a strong connection with the client. From there, I head to the slab yard. Seeing natural stone in person really helps spark the direction for the project. It’s where the creative momentum begins.
AJ: What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on and how did you overcome it?
SA: One of the most difficult projects wasn’t challenging because of the design itself, it was due to a couple who had very unrealistic expectations. We outlined the schedule, communicated clearly, and did everything we could to stay transparent. But once delays came up, caused by the clients, ironically, it was nearly impossible to reason with them. We stayed professional, avoided blame, and kept pushing forward. But it was a good reminder that the client relationship can make or break a project.
Dark surfaces and golden sconces strike a moody note in this modern speakeasy-inspired bar.
AJ: How do you keep up with the latest design trends?
SA: By visiting showrooms, galleries, and design events whenever I can. And when time is tight, social media is a great tool. It gives you quick access to what others are doing and what’s resonating in the design world.
AJ: How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your designs?
SA: Functionality always comes first, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. Even highly aesthetic choices can be maintained or adapted to function well with thoughtful planning.
AJ: What is your favorite type of space to design?
SA: Kitchens. I love customizing cabinetry, storage, and layout based on how my clients cook and live. A great kitchen isn’t just beautiful, it has to function seamlessly. I enjoy tailoring every detail to their lifestyle.
Sunlight pours through the windows and dances across the mirrors and glossy surfaces, giving this bathroom a serene, spa-like atmosphere.
AJ: What is the most important skill for a successful designer?
SA: Listening. Being able to clearly articulate your vision while also receiving feedback without taking it personally is key. Good communication and empathy go a long way.
AJ: What is your favorite type of furniture to design?
SA: Tables! Especially coffee tables, dining tables and side tables. I love using natural stone and incorporating interesting design details. They’re functional pieces, but also sculptural and expressive.
AJ: Can you tell us about a project where you had to incorporate a client’s personal collection into the design?
SA: Almost every project involves incorporating something from a client’s personal collection, sometimes from the start, sometimes as a surprise at the end. We do our best to thoughtfully place those pieces, but if something really doesn’t work, we may quietly leave it out of the final install photos (don’t tell anyone).
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