Patterned upholstery, sculptural forms, and a graphic rug bring movement to a space that’s otherwise calm, collected, and quietly confident.
Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Sarah Magness: I remember vividly the moment I knew I would become a designer. I was 13 years old, living in Tokyo with my family, and assigned a class project to design a private room for myself. It was the first time I drew a floor plan, selected furniture, and imagined a space that reflected my personality and needs. To say it was love at first sketch would be an understatement.
But the seeds were planted long before that day. I come from a long line of designers, builders, and architects. My great-grandfather founded a design-build company in the Midwest at the turn of the century, and growing up, my life was shaped by road trips, family conversations, and shelves filled with publications on historical buildings, churches, and homes. I remember once asking my mother why we visited so many colonial homes in New England. Her answer stuck with me: “So that you appreciate those who came before you, and the work they put in to create a community.” That simple explanation became a cornerstone of how I view design — not just as aesthetics or function, but as a continuation of legacy and contribution.
Design has always been in my blood, but that day in Tokyo gave it form. It’s when I realized that what had always surrounded me could also come from within me. That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong passion — and a career that still feels like coming home.
The fireplace adds depth through contrast, its crisp brick and dark hearth softened by plush textures and low, sculptural furnishings.
AJ: Can you tell us about a design trend you are excited about?
SM: I’m truly excited about the growing wellness movement within design. Having spent part of my childhood in Japan, I was deeply influenced by the way Japanese culture integrates the surrounding landscape, simplicity, and a mindful balance between work and rest. That early exposure shaped how I view design — not just as visual or functional, but as a vehicle for well-being.
What’s exciting is that this approach is now taking hold in the Western world. In 2019, I designed a room for the Kips Bay Show House titled the “Mindfulness Room.” It was conceived as a space for personal reflection — designed to engage all five senses and create a fully immersive environment of calm, balance, and restoration. Every detail, from textures and lighting to scent and sound, was chosen to encourage presence and peace.
Since then, many clients have requested versions of that space in their own homes. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how the concept of wellness is evolving beyond spas or retreats — it’s becoming central to how we live and design every day. To me, this shift feels less like a trend and more like a return to what design has always had the potential to do: nurture, support, and elevate our lives.
AJ: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as a designer?
SM: The best piece of advice I received was to work for five different designers before starting my own practice or focusing on a particular sector of the industry. It was invaluable guidance.
When I graduated from architecture school at the end of the last century, the internet wasn’t yet part of everyday life. I had no idea how broad and diverse the design industry truly was. Unlike today’s graduates — who are flooded with information and endless career paths — I had to explore the industry hands-on to understand where I fit.
That advice led me to work with firms of different sizes, in different specialties, and in different cities. Each experience gave me a new perspective — not only on design itself but on how to work with clients, manage teams, and build a creative identity.
To any young designer starting out, I’d say: give yourself time to explore. Don’t rush to specialize. The world is wide, and there’s so much design out there to be inspired by.
Flooded with natural light by day and softened by a warm lamp at night, this cozy sofa nook makes the idea of leaving feel optional.
AJ: How do you stay creative and inspired?
SM: Living in New York is inspiring in itself — there’s energy, diversity, and constant movement. But what truly fuels my creativity is travel. My career takes me around the world, both for work and for pleasure, and with each new destination, project, or conversation, I discover new perspectives.
Whether it’s walking through a centuries-old neighborhood, exploring a local market, or simply sharing stories with a new friend, the world continues to offer fresh experiences. Those moments — big and small — are what spark new ideas and keep my creativity alive. Every day holds the potential for inspiration, as long as you stay open to it.
AJ: What was the last book you read and how did it inspire you?
SM: I recently read my good friend Gene Pressman’s book, They All Came to Barneys — and I truly can’t recommend it enough. It’s fantastic. Gene was a true visionary, and his family’s influence forever changed the way the world dressed. The book is part New York City history, part family business drama, and part creative manifesto — all wrapped up in a beautifully written story, with all the effortlessly chic coolness that defined Barneys.
It’s inspiring on so many levels: the boldness of the vision, the dedication to craftsmanship, and the fearless approach to building something iconic. Reading it reminded me how powerful design can be when it’s rooted in authenticity, driven by passion, and unafraid to take risks. It’s a reminder to dream big and stay true to your creative instincts.
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