One Coast Design - Designer Stories - Charleston Home + Design Magazine, Home Professionals, Charleston SC

Story by Micaela Arnett / January 3, 2024

The latest issue of Charleston Home + Design Magazine features Charleston’s top interior designers and their design ethos. Dive into the details that didn’t make it to print from One Coast Design.

Michelle Woolley Sauter, Principal Designer of One Coast Design

Design Philosophy

Our design ethos centers on rejuvenating spaces, embracing timelessness and sustainable practices. We revive cherished pieces, seamlessly blending them into our clients’ designs and infusing spaces with history. Sustainability is our guiding principle, prioritizing quality to minimize waste and enhance your home’s longevity. Every project embodies second chances, sustainability, and crafting a beautiful, lasting future for you and your home.

Design Awards & Industry Achievements

Kitchen & Bath Design Awards 2023 – Best Master Bathroom, Best of Houzz 2015-2023, Press: HGTV, Better Homes & Gardens, Forbes Home, Good Housekeeping, Kitchen & Bath Design News, Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, Living Etc., Luxury Portfolio International, Florida Design, Mansion Global, Azalea Magazine

“A room isn’t complete without…”

A built-in! You know I love beautiful storage! A sentimental item I can highlight, collected heirlooms or treasure from your travels that I can incorporate that always makes you smile when you see it!

Favorite material and finish combinations for kitchens:

You can’t go wrong with a quartz countertop that is not trendy mixed with a light or white shaker style cabinet. I’m a huge fan of the countertop material running up the back wall in lieu of tile…but subway tile is always a classic that gives good ROI. I love to mix metals for the hardware portion of the program and tie it in with the lighting to create new classic moments! Your lighting is the jewelry of the space and making sure it’s just right, not too big or too small, is a delicate balance we achieve to the delight of our clients. A fabulous hood over the range is another area that sets your kitchen design apart.

Trend Forecast 2024:

In interior design, there are so many great movements gaining momentum. Using more sustainable and natural materials like wood, bamboo, and cane in furniture, renewables like Porcelain tiles made from recycled glass, and Biophilic design, which incorporates elements of nature into interior spaces, is expected to gain even more prominence in 2024. We constantly bring live plants indoors, fostering a deeper connection to the outdoors. And for those with brown thumbs, we’ve got gorgeous faux-real plants to give you that feeling! Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design: With an increasing focus on environmental sustainability, eco-friendly design practices will become more prevalent. Look for furniture and decor from recycled or upcycled materials, energy-efficient lighting, and sustainable building practices. Minimalism will also play a significant role in reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Maximalism: On the flip side, maximalism is making a comeback. This style encourages bold patterns, vibrant colors, and an abundance of decor and art. Expect to see eclectic and personalized spaces with a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. Maximalist design celebrates self-expression and individuality. Earthy Tones and Warm Colors: Earthy and warm color palettes, such as terracotta, ochre, and deep greens, will be popular in 2024. These colors create a cozy and inviting atmosphere and pair well with the focus mentioned above on natural and sustainable materials. Textured Finishes: Texture will be a key element in interior design, with textured wallpapers, textured fabrics, and tactile surfaces like rough stone and matte finishes gaining attention. These elements add depth and character to spaces. Smart and Tech-Integrated Design: The integration of technology into interior design will continue to evolve. Smart homes and tech-savvy design solutions will be in demand, including voice-activated controls, automated lighting, motorized drapery systems, and integrated audiovisual systems. Vintage and Antique Pieces: Vintage and antique furniture and decor items will be incorporated into modern interiors to add character and uniqueness. These pieces can serve as focal points and conversation starters. Personalized Spaces: Personalization is at the forefront of design, with homeowners seeking to create spaces that reflect their individuality and lifestyles. Using customized furnishings, personalized art, and unique design elements will be used to achieve this. Curved and Organic Shapes: Furniture and decor with organic, curved shapes will be on-trend in 2024. Touches of these forms add a sense of softness and fluidity to interiors, contrasting with the straight lines of traditional design elements to create balance and comfort. The most successful interior designs are those that reflect the unique personality and needs of the homeowners. As an interior designer, staying informed about these trends and working with clients to create spaces that resonate with their tastes and lifestyles is important to us.

What’s one piece of design advice that will transcend what’s trending right now?

Training yourself to think a bit more long-term with your design choices. Finding a ‘quick’ piece as a placeholder until you can get what you want is causing you to waste resources on furnishings and pieces you’re not really in loooove with. Changing out seasonal pillows and accents is great for a refresh and not a huge investment. Pivotal pieces like sofas, beds, and case goods should be thought of as an investment; buying quality pieces made with real wood, quality fittings and finishes, and classic details will stand the test of time.

Kitchen

Featured in Designer Stories

Creating timeless kitchens that fit seamlessly into the unique atmosphere of metro Charleston is a highly rewarding investment for our clients. Charleston is known for its rich history, charming architecture, and coastal vibes, and a kitchen design that captures these elements can enhance your home in several ways:

Aesthetic Appeal: Timeless kitchen designs often incorporate classic elements, such as shaker-style cabinetry, neutral color palettes, and natural materials like wood and stone. These elements are a great fit for the historic charm of Charleston and can blend seamlessly with the city’s architectural styles. This aesthetic appeal not only pleases the eye but also contributes to the overall visual harmony of your home.

Longevity: Timeless designs have an enduring quality that transcends short-lived trends. By investing in a kitchen design that doesn’t go out of style, you ensure that your space remains appealing and functional for years to come. This longevity saves you from repeat renovations and adds value to your home over time by making it more attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.

Versatility: Timeless kitchen designs are versatile and adaptable. They can accommodate a range of personal styles and preferences. Whether you prefer a modern twist on classic design or a more traditional approach, a timeless kitchen can be customized to reflect your tastes, ensuring a comfortable and personal space for you and your family. The styling layer we do makes it all you.

Resale Value: If you’re considering selling your home in the future, a timeless kitchen design can significantly boost its resale value. Prospective buyers in Charleston often appreciate a kitchen that complements the city’s character and history. A timeless kitchen design can act as a strong selling point and help your property stand out in a competitive market.

Connection to History: Charleston’s history is a significant part of its identity, and a timeless coastal kitchen design can pay homage to this heritage. Incorporating traditional features and materials can create a connection to the past while still offering modern functionality. It’s a way to celebrate the city’s historical significance within the comfort of your own home.

Functional and Efficient: Timeless kitchen designs are known for their efficient layouts and practicality. These designs prioritize functionality and organization, making your kitchen a convenient, beautiful, enjoyable space to cook, dine, and entertain – especially important in a busy, vibrant city like Charleston, where the kitchen often serves as the heart of the home. Investing in a timeless kitchen design right at home here in Charleston can enhance your living space in many ways. It offers an aesthetically pleasing, enduring, and versatile kitchen that pays homage to the city’s history and coastal vibes while adding value to your property. Moreover, a timeless design’s functional and efficient aspects ensure that your kitchen is a practical and inviting space for daily living for many years to come.