Meet Sara Swabb, the creative force behind Storie Collective. Each design project she undertakes is like a chapter in a book, with every room telling a unique story. Through her company, Sara weaves narratives that blend classic architecture with a modern sensibility, creating homes that feel collected rather than simply decorated. Her approach involves adding drama, surprise, and character development to each space, such as incorporating velvet wallpaper, bronze sculptures, and soulful kitchen sinks.
Based in Washington, D.C., with projects spanning Nantucket, Massachusetts, Sara’s work reflects a deep appreciation for European design, American furnishings, and midcentury modernism. By skillfully mixing different design elements, she brings a sense of harmony and sophistication to her projects. Sara is passionate about restoring historic homes while infusing them with a fresh perspective, always considering sustainability and the unique story each home has to tell.
Four months after launching Storie Collective, Sara took on a major renovation project in historic Georgetown, transforming a rundown row house into a stunning living space. This experience deepened her understanding of historic preservation and the balance between old and new elements. Sara’s design philosophy embraces imperfections and unconventional beauty, believing that flaws add character and intrigue to a space.
Throughout each project, Sara is deeply involved in every detail, ensuring that her vision is meticulously executed. She combines period-inspired details with modern elements, creating spaces that are both elegant and inviting. Sara’s design style involves surprising elements that disrupt expectations, striking a balance between minimalism and intricate details.
In her own words, Sara Swabb strives to push the boundaries of design just enough to maintain a sense of refinement, creating homes that feel harmonious and captivating from the moment you step inside.
Q: Do you have a signature design element or feature that appears consistently in your projects?
A: Definitely, I love incorporating custom kitchen sinks into my designs. Whether made from natural stone or metals like copper, nickel, or brass, these sinks offer a sense of durability and artistry, anchoring the space with a blend of aesthetics and practicality. They age beautifully over time.
Q: Is there something you have saved for a special project that you’re eager to use?
A: I have a stunning oval mirror designed with a pink Murano glass frame and brass inlays by Studio Glustin that I’m saving for the perfect opportunity, perhaps to pair with a classic toile in the entrance of a row house. It’s so exquisite that I might just have to splurge on it soon.
Q: Can you share an artisan or maker who serves as a source of inspiration for you?
A: Wayne Pate is incredibly inspiring to me. His work strikes a harmonious balance between the familiar and the innovative. I admire his versatility in exploring various styles and themes without being confined to a single aesthetic.
Q: Who in the design industry motivates and influences your work?
A: Steven Gambrel has always been a significant influence on my design journey. His talent for seamlessly blending vibrant colors with strong architectural foundations is truly remarkable. I appreciate his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to blend historical elements with a modern design approach.
Q: Any fellow designers you particularly admire?
A: Lauren Sullivan from Well x Design is someone I deeply respect. Her talent lies in creating spaces that effortlessly combine elegance with functionality. She has a knack for balancing color, texture, and proportions to craft environments that feel both inviting and sophisticated.
