What We Are

We are a team comprised of one principle designer, Samantha Thompson, and independent contractors, stylists, architects and artisans brought in to work as needed on specific projects, each according to their ability to contribute their talents to the design and construction of the space.  Every client receives a highly individualized, idiosyncratic approach to their project.  We source and include those working at the highest levels of their craft to make our vision for you a reality.

What We Are Not

Samantha Thompson Interior Arts is an Interior Design Firm. We are hired to direct the complete redesign of your space, whether you wish to change one room or your entire interior. We do not consult on individual aspects of design, like changing furniture or updating fabrics.  The terms Interior Designer and Interior Decorator are often used interchangeably but they actually represent two different professional services.

Interior Decorators are usually hired to refresh a space and they are wonderful for clients with a strong vision they want to implement or those looking to make small changes.  Decorators typically make suggestions on wallpaper and paint colors, they shop for new furniture and advise on placement and they work collaboratively with a client to realize the client’s vision for their home.  It is a client directed, often client-managed, micro approach that works well for those looking to make incremental changes or implement their own ideas.

We do not work this way.  

As an Interior Designer, Samantha approaches each space from the perspective of completely re-inventing it to suit the client’s needs, taste and aspiration for how they want to live in their home.  It is a full service, designer-driven approach that entails a deep understanding of the client, how they intend to live in and use the space and most importantly, how they want to feel inside their home.  Samantha puts her 23 years of experience in the fashion and interior design world to work in realizing a completely new environment for you and your family.

Dollars and (Common) Sense

Samantha Thompson Interior Arts bills clients on a transparent, fee-based model. There is one design and engagement fee that is paid before the commencement of any work as well as a monthly implementation fee which covers the non-design aspects of the project- collaborating with vendors, meeting with contractors, phone calls- the leg work.  We do not bill by the hour or mark up the services of others or anything we purchase on your behalf.  If we get a trade discount we pass it on to you.  You pay the contractor directly.  There are no surprises but most importantly there is never even the appearance of a conflict of interest.  

We work on your behalf to spend your money efficiently and in the most beneficial way possible to implement your dream space.  We have no monetary interest in what we purchase, how much we spend or which vendors we use other than making sure you get the appropriate, best result for your home.  Samantha feels it must be this way to ensure total trust on behalf of the client.

Our Process

Once our contract is signed and the design fee and first month’s implementation fee is paid we start the design process.  Based on the scale and duration of the project, Samantha presents the client with 2-3 artistic directions for each room.  Typically this involves a choice of color palates, style and level of formality for the room as well as the scope of the basic updates to the space.  

Once we receive confirmation from the client of the artistic direction, we flesh out the initial inspiration with specifics - light fixtures, furniture, fabric and wallpaper choices, hardware and trims.  After the final design has been approved, the ordering and execution of the design commences.  The project ends when everything has been installed, styled and prepared for the customer to live in their dream space.