A DESIGNER’S PERSPECTIVE ON INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE

No. 022 Custom Stairs

At Studio Thomas, we believe interior architecture is the foundation of a timeless home. This week, we sat down with a few of our own interior designers to hear their perspectives on what makes beautiful interior architecture. Here’s a closer look into what inspires them most:

ERIN - STUDIO THOMAS SENIOR DESIGNER

With experience in high-end residential design, Erin brings both technical expertise and artistic vision to every project. She loves the interplay of architecture, texture, and materials, ultimately creating spaces that feel both personal and timeless. Inspired by fashion, literature, and the Colorado outdoors, she blends creativity with a deep appreciation for structure and function.

Here are some of her thoughts about interior architecture:

When you think about beautiful interior architecture, what spaces or details come to mind first?

“The details we try to think about and tailor for each project include, door, ceiling, millwork, and arch details.”

Is there a particular room where you think interior architecture has the most opportunity to stand out? 

“Any space where you can add a ceiling detail is a great opportunity to create something special. These tend to be dining rooms, kitchens, great rooms, and primary bedrooms” 

Are there any specific architectural details that you think instantly make a home feel elevated?

“Millwork is a simple, but impactful detail that can be tailored to various clients and aesthetics. I also believe that  fireplace surround is a great way to elevate a space.”

Have you ever been inspired by a historic home or building? What details stuck with you?

“I draw a lot of inspiration from classical architecture. I love incorporating it where feasible, but also giving those traditional details a fresh look in modern and contemporary settings.”

CALEE - STUDIO THOMAS SENIOR DESIGNER

Calee’s design philosophy is rooted in the balance of old and new, drawing inspiration from antiques and traditional architecture. Having worked on homes from Nantucket to Napa, she brings a curated, timeless approach to every project. She believes in building strong client relationships to ensure each space reflects their needs while feeling beautifully lived-in and complete.

Here’s interior architecture through Calee’s eyes:

When you think about beautiful interior architecture, what spaces or details come to mind first?

“Hallways and stairs — details like those at No. 022 and No. 029 immediately come to mind.” 

Is there a particular room where you think interior architecture has the most opportunity to stand out?

“A foyer is a really important space, it sets the tone for the entire home the moment you walk in. The architectural details seen there should flow throughout the rest of the home.”

Are there any specific architectural details that you think instantly make a home feel elevated?

“Millwork, arched openings, built-ins, a beautiful fireplace surround.” 

Have you ever been inspired by a historic home or building? What details stuck with you?

“I really love a lot of old churches from out east, something about highly detailed and gothic architecture really speaks to me. The attention to detail in anything historic is what we try to emulate in our attention to detail in design.”

OLIVIA - STUDIO THOMAS DESIGNER

Olivia has a deep appreciation for European architecture and antiques. She loves blending old and new elements to create spaces with character and depth. Passionate about the collaborative design process, she enjoys helping clients discover and refine their personal style.

Here’s a closer look at Olivia’s approach to interior architecture:

When you think about beautiful interior architecture, what spaces or details come to mind first?

“The interior architectural details that jump out most to me are fireplace details, ceiling details, and stairs.”

Is there a particular room where you think interior architecture has the most opportunity to stand out?. 

“Primary spaces are where we typically try to add as much architectural detail as possible. To add onto Erin’s, we like to put attention into formal powder baths as well.”

Are there any specific architectural details that you think instantly make a home feel elevated?

“Wall finishes like plaster or wallpaper!”

Have you ever been inspired by a historic home or building? What details stuck with you? 

“I really like the architecture of some of the museums I have been to in the south. They usually have intricate arch details and tile patterns with marble / stone details.”

Interior architecture goes beyond structure, it’s about telling a story that reflects who our clients are. Through intentional details like millwork, plastered walls, and built-ins, our designers flawlessly create environments that feel layered and uniquely personal. These architectural choices are at the core of the Studio Thomas philosophy - because as Kristen Thomas says,

“Design is about adding layer upon layer in the right way. It becomes more than home; it’s a lifestyle.”

Every beautiful home begins with a story. Let’s craft yours together one intentional layer at a time.