What inspired you to start SOL Studio?

The idea for SOL Studio actually came while on holiday with the family last year. We were in the middle of our house build, and I was getting ready to sell my previous business, Wild Hearts. Being surrounded by inspiration for that sun-soaked, coastal retreat, I wanted to bring that serene holiday feeling not only into our new home but into more homes around New Zealand. My vision is to create a studio that offers a more holistic approach to the interior space. Coming from a background in fashion and event styling, and forever re-styling and creating new spaces in our homes, it was a natural progression to move into interior design, pulling my passion for aesthetics and serenity into this new venture, SOL Studio, where "Sol" means sun in Spanish.

What is your creative process - from conception to execution?

I begin each project with a very holistic approach, taking time to explore the client's vision and the space or product, uncovering their unique story to intertwine into the design. Every detail is curated in a thoughtful, considered process. Once the vision is created, then, from here, the fun begins - sourcing, timelines, budgets, and communicating between contractors. The process is collaborative, bringing the client along every step of the journey, from sketches to the final execution, and at the end, creating a space or product that feels like magic.

How do you stay up to date with the latest trends? (Where do you pull inspiration from)?

Staying current with trends is essential in the design world! I am forever researching and dreaming, drawing inspiration from design magazines, books, Instagram, Pinterest, travel, nature and by connecting with other creatives. I am always saving images, ideas, destinations or products that I love into various folders for future projects.

What do you consider to be the most important element(s) of successful interior design (aestheticism/functionality, etc.)?

For me, successful interior design is a delicate balance between aesthetics and functionality. A space should not only be beautiful but also purposeful, calm and evoke a sense of feeling in the space.

How would you describe your personal style for your home?

I love lots of natural light, paired with a coastal-inspired palette of calming hues, whites, beige, natural textures and a touch of luxe. I'm also drawn to curves and the gentle, flowing lines that infuse a sense of fluidity and motion into a space. You will find quite a few curves and arches in our current home!

What was the most important aspect to you when designing and styling your home?

The most important aspect for me in designing and styling my home was to create a space that felt like our own little retreat—a place where my family and I could escape the daily hustle. The design aesthetic was inspired by beautiful destinations we had travelled to. We love having a beautiful indoor/outdoor flow and entertaining with friends, so the heart of our home and where we spent the most on design was in the kitchen and living, that also extends outside to our crazy pave courtyard.

What is your advice to anyone starting out in Interior Design/ Styling?

My advice to those starting out in interior design or styling is to be passionate, persistent, and open to continuous learning. Explore your unique style and stay true to your vision. Build a strong foundation of design principles and be adaptable in an ever-evolving industry. Collaborate with others, seek inspiration from various sources, and never underestimate the power of nature as a timeless muse.

What was the easiest/hardest part of being so involved in the design of your new home?

The easiest part was translating my vision into reality, as it's what I do best. The hardest part at first was working out the right people and products that would fit in with the aesthetic, as sometimes it can be very limiting where we live. Our builders were great in letting us customise so much of our build project and we definitely learnt a lot along the way. When you have contractors that also understand the vision, it makes the project come together seamlessly. It was also such a great way to get to know some really amazing people in the industry!

What would be your ideal/dream styling job?

My dream styling job would involve designing a coastal retreat or boutique eco resort somewhere dreamy, where the architecture seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings, creating a serene escape for those who inhabit it. It would be a project that pushes the boundaries of modern interiors and sustainable design.

You can find SOL Studio on Instagram @the.sol.studio and follow Samantha on Instagram @underthewildstars