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Originally from Normandy, France, my love for arts was nurtured from a young age. Raised by a father who was a musician, painter, and photographer, and a mother who cherished museums and archeological sites, I naturally developed a passion for personal expression through various art forms. I honed my skills at a young age by taking drawing classes at the French Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Architecture in 2015 in France, where I honed my skills in architecture, design, and interior design. Seeking to expand my understanding of different approaches and sensibilities, I attended seminars at the prestigious Louvre Museum in Paris on scenography techniques and color treatments. I moved from France to California in 2015 and in 2016, I established my own company, delivering exceptional projects in the San Francisco Bay Area before relocating to Huntington Beach in Southern California. Since then, I have had the privilege of working with numerous clients successfully completing residential and commercial projects both in California and France.
Bianco Superiore Quartzite | Photo by Jeri Koegel
1. Go-to color for painting a kitchen?
Samia Verbist: I have a preference for light and bright colors that beautifully complement the materials used in the kitchen, such as the countertop, backsplash, and cabinets.
2. Favorite part about interior designing?
Samia Verbist: One of my favorite parts of designing is the moment when I start a project. The clients express their wishes, and I begin to reflect, again and again, until an idea takes root in my mind. From that moment on, all the puzzle pieces start coming together to form my vision.
Everything falls into place, and each element that will compose the design becomes clear and obvious to me: a light fixture, a quartzite, a color, and so on.
Another aspect that I particularly enjoy during the creative phase is taking my clients beyond what they initially envisioned. I enjoy suggesting an element that they would have never chosen themselves or even thought they would like, and ultimately, they end up adoring it and approving it because they trust me. It brings me immense joy as a designer because I know that it will be absolutely perfect and magnificent.
Bianco Superiore Quartzite | Photo by Jeri Koegel
3. How would you describe your style?
Samia Verbist: My signature design style revolves around creating spaces that authentically reflect the personality and lifestyle of my clients. Indeed isn’t this what we are supposed to do as designers, namely to create spaces for our clients and not for our own satisfaction? I firmly believe that a well-designed space has the power to enhance homeowners’ lives by offering a comfortable and functional environment they can truly call home.
Additionally, I always incorporate my distinctive French touch, adding that special “je ne sais quoi” to the design. This could manifest in the form of gold accents (I adore gold!), captivating wallpapers (I’m a wallpaper enthusiast too!), grand chandeliers, or unconventional elements.
4. Favorite trend(s) of the year?
Samia Verbist: This year, I find myself particularly drawn to the captivating trends of white oak cabinets and the timeless elegance of quartzite countertops in kitchen designs and also the use of large slabs for shower walls.
5. What inspires you at the moment?
Samia Verbist: I draw my inspiration from my travels. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to travel regularly in France and other countries. My husband and I love exploring “signature” hotels, both abroad and in California. Hotel design is often at the forefront and serves as a true source of inspiration for me.
Bianco Superiore Quartzite | Photo by Jeri Koegel
6. What kind of work do you usually prefer?
Samia Verbist: I truly enjoy taking on full house remodeling projects, revamping kitchens, and reimagining bathrooms. It’s fulfilling to witness the transformation as we optimize the space, ensuring it is both functional and aesthetically pleasing while giving it a fresh and modern update.
Also, I find great joy in embracing projects that diverge from my usual style. The opportunity to work on designs that challenge my comfort zone pushes me to exceed my own limits and unleash my creativity. I thrive on the excitement of crafting something entirely fresh and innovative, exploring uncharted territories within my field. These projects offer me a chance to constantly reinvent myself and continually evolve as a designer. The thrill of stepping outside my comfort zone is a challenge that I eagerly embrace, as it fuels my passion and enables me to deliver unique and remarkable results.
7. What do you consider before designing?
Samia Verbist: I always take into consideration the architectural essence and style of the house, as well as the unique way my clients live in their space. Factors such as whether they have children or pets, and if they frequently host gatherings with family and friends, play a crucial role in my design approach. Understanding their personal style, color preferences, and material choices allows me to create a tailored design that truly reflects their lifestyle and meets their specific needs.
Visit Samia’s website at https://www.samiaverbist-interior.design
And her Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/samia_verbist_interior_design