We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Catia Sander. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Catia below.

Catia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to start by getting your thoughts on what you are seeing as some the biggest trends emerging in your industry.

Sustainable Design: Eco-friendly materials and practices are becoming increasingly popular, with a focus on reducing waste and using recycled or sustainably sourced materials.

Biophilic Design: Incorporating natural elements, like plants and natural light, to create a connection with nature is a key trend. This includes using organic shapes and textures in decor.

Quiet luxury: It refers to an understated, elegant approach that emphasizes quality, refinement, and subtle opulence rather than overt displays of wealth or bold statements. This style is characterized by a restrained color palette, timeless materials, and a focus on craftsmanship

Multifunctional Spaces: With more people working from home, there’s a growing need for spaces that serve multiple purposes, combining work, relaxation, and entertainment.

Vintage and Antique Elements: Integrating vintage or antique furniture and decor adds character and a sense of history to modern spaces.

Textured Fabrics: Soft, tactile fabrics like bouclé, velvet, and leather are popular, adding warmth and depth to interiors.

Smart Home Technology: Integrating smart home devices seamlessly into design, focusing on convenience and energy efficiency.

I am currently designing a stunning home in Venice, CA, embodying the essence of quiet luxury.
The design features timeless elements, with natural materials like warm oak flooring and hand-textured limewash walls, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere.
Subtle luxury is infused through details such as custom designed furniture and cabinetry, brass fixtures, and floor-to-ceiling windows that invite natural light while offering the desirable connection between indoors and nature.
A statement marble kitchen island serves as both a functional centerpiece and an art piece, blending seamlessly with the muted, earthy palette, evoking understated elegance in every corner.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m an architectural and interior designer with over 25 years of experience in transforming spaces into thoughtfully crafted environments that are both beautiful and functional. My design philosophy is rooted in creating spaces that evoke a sense of harmony and purpose, blending aesthetics with practicality to elevate everyday living.

Born and raised in Brazil, my multicultural upbringing has deeply influenced my work, inspiring me to infuse diverse textures, colors, and materials into every project. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working internationally in countries like Germany, Brazil, India, and the U.S., where I’ve gained a deep appreciation for regional architectural styles and unique design challenges. This global exposure has equipped me with a versatile design approach, allowing me to seamlessly adapt to various cultural contexts and client needs.

Now based in Los Angeles, I’m inspired by the city’s vibrant design scene and diverse architectural landscape. I specialize in both residential and commercial projects, offering a fresh perspective that combines quiet luxury with functional design. Whether you’re seeking the sleek elegance of modernism, the warmth of timeless tradition, or something bold and unconventional, I’m passionate about turning your vision into a personalized, stunning reality.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

During the pandemic, my career reached a pivotal point that shifted my trajectory from working for some of the most reputable design firms in LA, to launching my own design studio.
The disruption brought by this unique time in our lives forced me to reassess my professional path and priorities. With over 25 years of experience as an architectural and interior designer, the time felt right to break free from traditional employment and leverage the skills, relationships, and vision I had cultivated over the years. The support of my family, friends, and loyal clients gave me the confidence to take the leap.
What began as an uncertain move during an unprecedented global crisis became an opportunity to redefine my career and bring my personal design philosophy to life on my own terms. This moment of transformation allowed me to focus on creating spaces that reflect a deep understanding of cultural influences, global design trends, and the quiet luxury that has since become my signature.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Word of mouth has been the primary source of new clients for me because it is rooted in trust, credibility, and the personal experiences of satisfied clients. With my experience in the architectural and interior design industry, I have built meaningful relationships and a solid reputation through my work across diverse projects in countries. My clients appreciate the unique blend of global influences I bring to each design, which often sparks conversations and referrals within their networks. People trust recommendations from those they know, making word of mouth a powerful and authentic way to attract clients who value both the quality of my work and the personal connections I establish.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.catiasander.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catiasanderdesign/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catiasanderdesign
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/catiasanderdesign

Image Credits

Virginia Pitts