Sue Firestone’s experience in the interior world is nothing short of inspiring. Through her design firm SFA Design, her work has been seen nationally and globally. Sue has worked with prestigious hotels such as Ritz Carlton, Waldorf Astoria, and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. Internationally, she has been able to create a top “eco-luxury” destination at the Hilton Windhoek Hotel in Windhoek, Namibia. Not only has she curated a portfolio with the world’s luxury estates, but she has now continued her journey into creating amazing furniture pieces. Introducing, this week’s Designer Friday, Sue Firestone.
After years of experience with interior design, Sue has stepped into the realm of creating home products. Pictured here is a luxury rug from her line with Mehraban Rugs.
Andrew Joseph: Describe your design style as if you were explaining it to someone who cannot see.
Sue Firestone: Bohemian-upscale-couture- inspired by nature and the 60’s and 70’s; tactile, organic texture, not man-made; cozy and comfortable.
Andrew: What is something you hope to see trending in design in the future?
Sue: I hope to see more designs trending to biodegradable and recycled material. I think this revolution is still in its infancy regarding all design products!
Pictured here is one of Sue Firestone’s designs for the collaboration with Fuse Lighting, the Del Mar Sconce with painted steel.
Andrew: What are three words to describe where you live?
Sue: Surrounded by nature!
Andrew: What was your first job?
Sue: My first job at the age of 15 was cleaning private homes in Malibu where I grew up; since I didn’t drive yet- I rode my beloved horse all over Point Dume. I advertised on a 3×5 index card at the supermarket!
Andrew: Style (or design) icon?
Sue: My style icon is Michael Taylor who really created the original California look in the late 70’s. Oversized yet comfortable furniture and all-natural and high-end materials…indoor outdoor feel..this became a global influence and still is today….
About The Designer | As Chairman and Founder of sfa design, Sue has led the firm to complete acclaimed projects in some of the most fascinating destinations throughout U.A.E, Mexico, Asia and the United States. She has designed private estates for top celebrities and Fortune 500 business leaders such as: the Chairman of Oracle, 6 homes for the founder of Legendary Pictures and Chairman of Nvidia. Providing services for acclaimed hotel operators such as Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Ritz Carlton Hotels, Waldorf Astoria Collection, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Abu Dhabi National Hotels and Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, Sue’s dedication to carrying out each client’s distinct vision to its fullest artistic potential along with her personal passion for travel helps bring global perspectives and novel design concepts to each of sfa’s designs.
Andrew Joseph is a regular contributing editor for ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME magazine. See more of his work here.
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