We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mandee Sharp a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Mandee, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on so far was for my best friend’s family. I’ve known Janet and Myron for almost 20 years, and they’ve become like family to me. When they approached me about remodeling their kitchen, I felt incredibly honored that they trusted me with such an important task.

What made it truly special was the unique set of challenges we needed to address. They have two incredible boys with Down syndrome, who are just the sweetest, most hilarious kids. Both of them love to cook and bake, and Janet has faced her own health challenges as well, so we needed to design a space that was not only functional but also safe and accessible for everyone in the family.

Creating a kitchen that allowed their boys to independently and safely use the stove, microwave, and oven was a huge priority, and it really opened my eyes to the world of barrier-free design. It was my first real experience designing a space with accessibility at the forefront, and it deepened my passion for creating homes that work for every family member, no matter their abilities.

This project touched me on such a personal level because it wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about enhancing the everyday lives of people I love, making sure their home served their unique needs. It’s the kind of work that reminds me why I do what I do.

Mandee, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

For those who may not know me, I’m Mandee Sharp, owner and principal designer at Laurelwood Interiors. I’ve been in the design industry since 2014, but my passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces started long before that. I officially launched my own design firm in 2022, allowing me to focus on projects that truly inspire me and, more importantly, make a difference in the lives of my clients. One of the driving forces behind my work is the belief that a home should be a sanctuary—both aesthetically pleasing and tailored to the specific needs of the people who live there.

I’ve had the privilege of working on over 1,000 spaces throughout my career, but what I truly love about interior design is the ability to make homes more functional, accessible, and reflective of the families who live in them. Many of my clients are long-term homeowners who envision staying in their homes for years, and I specialize in creating designs that evolve with them—especially those who may have a personal or family need for barrier-free, accessible spaces.

At Laurelwood Interiors, we offer a range of services, from full-service design to “Designer for a Day” consultations, where I help guide clients through decisions like material selections, space planning, and custom design features. One of my favorite aspects of the job is finding creative solutions to challenges, whether it’s accommodating a physical disability, ensuring a kitchen layout is functional for someone with mobility concerns, or simply making a room feel cohesive and inviting.

What sets my work apart is my passion for barrier-free design. I’m proud to be one of the only designers in Utah specializing in creating accessible spaces that prioritize both function and beauty. My goal is to design homes where everyone—regardless of mobility or ability—feels comfortable, safe, and empowered. Whether it’s designing a kitchen that allows someone with limited mobility to cook independently or creating an entire home with thoughtful, accessible details, I focus on solutions that make a meaningful difference in my clients’ lives. I also believe in forming lasting relationships with my clients. The trust they place in me is something I hold dear, and I strive to create spaces that reflect their personalities, lifestyles, and future needs.
At the heart of it all, I want potential clients to know that when they work with Laurelwood Interiors, they’re not just getting a designer—they’re gaining a partner who genuinely cares about making their home the best it can be. I’m dedicated to ensuring that every space I design is thoughtful, functional, and full of heart.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been building strong, genuine relationships and letting word-of-mouth do its magic. I believe that when you take the time to truly listen to your clients, understand their needs, and exceed their expectations, they’ll naturally want to share their positive experience with others. My clients often refer me to their friends and family because they know I approach each project with care, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to making their space uniquely theirs.

Finally, offering personalized services like my ‘Designer for a Day’ package has been a great way to introduce new clients to my process. It allows them to experience working with a designer without the commitment of a full project, and many clients come back for more after that initial consultation. Overall, the combination of building trust, staying engaged with my community, and offering flexible services has been key to growing my business.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Absolutely. The core mission driving my creative journey is to design spaces that enhance the quality of life for every individual, regardless of their abilities or limitations. I believe that a well-designed home should be both beautiful and functional, but more importantly, it should support the specific needs of the people who live there. My passion for barrier-free design grew from this belief, and it’s become the heart of what I do.

Beyond that, I aim to foster meaningful relationships with my clients, building trust and truly understanding their lifestyles and long-term goals. This mission guides me every day, and it’s what keeps me passionate about my work. Knowing that my designs can make a tangible difference in someone’s life is what drives me forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.laurelwoodinteriors.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurelwood_interiors/