We interviewed Sarah from Sarah Montgomery Interiors in Chicago to share some of her home-related expertise. When working with clients, Sarah aims “to create spaces that pay respect to their home’s history, celebrate the present, and make space for a new story to unfold.” Her background in high-end textiles, theater, and manufacturing combine to create her playful, confident style. She believes “the fun is in the mix, and good design doesn’t have to be so serious.” Below, Sarah dishes on topics like what household items to splurge on and her favorite decorating tips.
If you’re on the hunt for an apartment so that you can use these tips and tricks, reach out to AptAmigo. We’ll help find your dream place in no time, letting you get to the fun part.
Interview with Chicago-Based Interior Designer Sarah Montgomery
If you could only buy one thing to spruce up a room, what would it be?
My background is in textiles, and I love color and pattern, so I would have to say decorative pillows.
What’s one item you love talking about or that other people always talk about in your house?
I think guests love to see all my little decor objects displayed and ask if there is a story behind them.
What’s one item you will always (or did) splurge on?
Wallpaper or drapery.
What’s one item you will never splurge on?
A side table.
What’s your worst apartment or home story?
Besides my last roommate in college, I would have to say living in a studio apartment here in Chicago. I need a decent sized kitchen and to be able to host.
What’s your favorite place to get apartment inspiration and window shop?
I love to go vintage shopping, and I also attend a lot of trade shows for the interior design industry. I love to see the product as much as how it is displayed.
Where’s your favorite place to find a bargain?
Craigslist.
What’s a must-have or must-do for hosting?
I have a lot of decorative side plates from my Anthropologie days, so I like to put those out along with cloth napkins. I also love to cook and share my food with others.
What’s your favorite snack, item, or activity for when you host company?
Cheese and wine.
Do you have any design or decorating tips that you would like to share?
Plants and textiles are the best way to add warmth and layers to a home.
What is the vibe of your apartment or house?
Graphic meets Granny.
How have you Konmari’d your house?
Living in Chicago and being a renter, I have moved every 2-3 years. I use that as an opportunity to purge and only keep things that bring me joy.
What was a small transformation that you made to your apartment or house that ended up making a big difference?
Paint! Even if you rent, it’s worth the time and money.
Need to Find an Apartment to Decorate?
We hope this blog post gave you some new ideas for refreshing your apartment space. You can visit Sarah’s website to see more of her design work and get in contact with her. As always, AptAmigo is here to help during your apartment hunt. Just reach out to us, let us know what you’re looking for, and we will set everything up — stress free!
Related: Apartment Hunting Made Easy with AptAmigo
* The original version of this article was first published on December 16, 2019.
