Photo by Matt Anello, Blu Skye Media
Andrew Joseph: How do you approach a new design project?
Sierra Schmitt: We always start by listening. Every project begins with understanding the client’s perspective — their vision, the words they use, the images they’re drawn to, and how they want to live in the space. From there, our role is to translate and elevate that vision. We bring together architecture, interior design, and landscape early, so we’re problem-solving holistically rather than in silos. The result is work that feels deeply personal to the client, but strengthened by the creativity, experience, and collective knowledge of our full team.
AJ: Can you tell us about a design trend you are excited about?
SS: I’m not a big believer in trends for the sake of trends. We tend to shift toward designing homes that are thoughtful, innovative, and truly responsive to how people live. We’re seeing clients prioritize longevity, craftsmanship, and meaningful connections between indoors and outdoors — which plays beautifully into our integrated approach across architecture, interiors, and landscape. Those ideas may evolve over time, but they don’t disappear in 1, 3, or even 10 years.
Photo by Jonathan Mitchell
AJ: Can you describe a project that you’re particularly proud of?
SS: We recently completed a project in Pebble Beach on a stunning ocean-view site where we were able to fully leverage our holistic services: architecture, interior design, landscape, and even interior furnishing and decoration. What makes that project especially meaningful is the level of collaboration behind it. Our team really embraced deep, cross-disciplinary partnership, something many firms shy away from because it requires trust and alignment. You can feel that collaboration in the finished home — it’s cohesive, intentional, and greater than the sum of its parts.
Photo by Jonathan Mitchell
AJ: How do you approach designing for different types of clients?
SS: While we have a clearly defined scope and process, there’s a lot of flexibility within that framework. Every client brings different strengths and challenges to the design process. Some need help visualizing, others struggle with decision-making or navigating budgets. Our job is to meet them where they are and tailor our approach accordingly. By aligning architecture, interiors, and landscape around those individual needs, we can guide clients through the process with clarity and confidence to make those important aesthetic choices we strive for.
AJ: How do you stay up to date on the latest technology in design?
SS: We’re very intentional about learning from one another as a team. Our younger designers have been instrumental in bringing forward new tools and ideas, particularly around how we can thoughtfully integrate AI into our workflows. At the same time, we evaluate new technology through the lens of whether it truly improves collaboration, efficiency, or design quality across disciplines. It’s less about chasing the newest tool and more about using technology to support better outcomes for our clients and our team.
AJ: What is your favorite design-related quote?
SS: “If everyone is going forward together, then success takes care of itself.” — Henry Ford. This really resonates with me as a partner, design director and team leader. When we’re aligned around a shared vision — across architecture, interiors, and landscape — the day-to-day decisions naturally move us in the same direction. That collective momentum is what allows both great design and strong teams to thrive.
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