Inspiration & Tastemakers
Tastemaker Spotlight: Kara Smith of SFA Design
Kara Smith, the visionary behind SFA Design, has a reputation for adding fresh and innovative design to all projects. The firm’s list of clients reads like a night at the oscars, and their portfolio proves this. ArtStar got the scoop of what it takes to rise to the top of the design world, and Kara’s favorite ArtStar works.
INSTAGRAM HANDLE: @karaesmith
City of Residence?
KS: Los Angeles
What are 3 things you cannot live without in your home?
KS:
- Tea Kettle
- World’s most comfortable bed
- My art collection
What is the last piece of art you purchased? Why were you attracted to the work?
What is the last piece of art you purchased? Why were you attracted to the work?KS: Play Station 2 by Charles Petillon. I love his eye for whimsy realty and I am also currently loving all things Paris.
 |
 |
KS: Stripper poles (multiple times!)
One design rule you should never break?
KS: Trendy is for fashion.
One design rule you should always break?KS: Conventional organization & use of spaces. Be creative by ultimately playing with different proportions. This will help you to create unique spaces that feel tailored & sophisticated.
What are your top 3 Instagram accounts for inspiration?
@Pocodesigns
@Jroman1964
@Vogueliving
Tips for hosting a successful dinner party?
- The perfect guest list is key
- Something visually unique that creates ambiance.
- Mood lighting where everyone looks and feels good.
What was the breakthrough moment in your career? When did you really come in to your own professionally?
KS: There was no pivotal moment… all I can say is experience is everything. The “10,000 Hours” concept couldn’t be more true. I just reached a point where all of it became second nature: understanding a client’s vision, the appropriate bed side manner, how to be innovative yet timeless and how to get it done. Hard work and lots of it can really push your career forward. That being said, a major land mark project was competing against the best designers in the business and winning to redesign the iconic L’ermitage in Beverly Hills.
