Empowering Spaces
Celebrating Women Interior Designers
Join us this Women's Month as we shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of women in the world of interior design.
From groundbreaking pioneers to contemporary trailblazers, we'll celebrate the diversity and ingenuity of women who have left an indelible mark on the design industry.
Discover how these visionary designers infuse their projects with elegance, warmth, and personality, creating environments that inspire and uplift. Whether you're seeking design inspiration, career insights, or simply want to celebrate the achievements of women in design, these four designers are your go-to destination this Women's Month.
Sophie Ashby
Sophie Ashby is a visionary interior designer renowned for her sophisticated yet approachable style, blending timeless elegance with contemporary flair. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Sophie has established herself as a leading figure in the design world, creating spaces that resonate with warmth, personality, and a sense of effortless luxury.
Born and raised in South Africa, Sophie's multicultural upbringing influences her eclectic aesthetic, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures, landscapes, and artistic traditions. After studying at the Inchbald School of Design in London, she founded Studio Ashby in 2014, quickly earning acclaim for her distinctive approach to interior design.
Sophie's work is characterized by its thoughtful curation of textures, colors, and furnishings, creating environments that feel both inviting and sophisticated. From private residences to boutique hotels and commercial spaces, her portfolio showcases a diverse range of projects, each infused with her signature style and meticulous attention to detail.
Image Source: Interior Style Hunter
Sheila Bridges
Sheila Bridges is a distinguished American interior designer celebrated for her innovative approach to design, blending traditional elements with contemporary flair. Born with a keen eye for aesthetics and a passion for creativity, she has made an indelible mark in the world of interior design through her unique style and meticulous attention to detail.
Raised in Philadelphia and educated at Brown University and Parsons School of Design, Bridges embarked on her professional journey in the early 1990s. She founded Sheila Bridges Design, Inc., a boutique interior design firm headquartered in New York City, where she transformed spaces into captivating works of art. Her designs have graced the homes of prominent figures, including celebrities, entrepreneurs, and tastemakers.
Bridges gained widespread recognition for her iconic Harlem Toile de Jouy fabric, a modern reinterpretation of the classic toile pattern that depicts scenes from African American life in Harlem. This groundbreaking design captured the essence of cultural diversity and heritage, earning her acclaim as a visionary in the design world.
With a commitment to inclusivity and representation, Bridges has been a trailblazer in promoting diversity within the design industry. She has authored books, appeared on television shows, and lectured extensively on the intersection of culture, identity, and design.
Image Source: SheilaBridges.com
Peti Lau
Peti Lau is a dynamic and innovative interior designer known for her eclectic and sophisticated style that effortlessly merges cultural influences from around the globe. With a passion for design that began at a young age, Peti has cultivated a career marked by creativity, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to crafting spaces that resonate with her clients on a deeply personal level.
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Peti's multicultural background serves as a rich source of inspiration for her work. She honed her design skills studying at the renowned Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she developed a keen eye for blending diverse design elements to create harmonious and visually stunning interiors.
Upon establishing her eponymous design firm, Peti Lau Design, Peti quickly gained recognition for her ability to infuse spaces with warmth, sophistication, and a sense of wanderlust. Her signature style effortlessly combines bold patterns, vibrant colors, and luxurious textures, resulting in interiors that are both timeless and of-the-moment.
Image Source: PetiLau.com
Kate Rohrer
Kate relocated to Philadelphia from Bucks County in 2001 to pursue her education at Moore College of Art + Design, graduating with a BFA in 2005. During her college years, she juggled her studies with a role at Stephen Starr’s iconic establishment, The Continental, where she served tables and mixed cocktails. Immersed in the dynamic ambiance of the restaurant, Kate found herself deeply inspired by its design, an influence that continues to shape her hospitality projects today.
Following her graduation, Kate embarked on her interior design career at Daroff Design in 2005, before transitioning to a boutique studio in Philadelphia. Here, she honed her skills while contributing to projects for esteemed clients such as Starwood Capital Group, BR Guest Restaurants, Mina Group, MGM Grand, Starr Restaurants, LDV Hospitality, and the Ritz-Carlton Clubs.
In 2014, Kate founded ROHE Creative with a mission to craft bespoke, intricate, and concept-driven spaces within her beloved city of Philadelphia. With over 16 years of experience in the hospitality design realm, Kate brings a wealth of expertise and a keen understanding of design principles to her work. Known for her ability to seamlessly blend styles, develop compelling conceptual narratives, and tackle design challenges with creativity, Kate has led her female-owned and operated studio to numerous award-winning projects. Her contributions have earned acclaim not only within Philadelphia but also across broader horizons, setting new standards for unforgettable restaurant and hotel experiences.
Image Source: Philadelphia Style
