Our Expertise
A closer look at how our studio approaches new construction projects—from early planning to final details. Designing a new home transforms an empty space into a personalized sanctuary. Boston interior designer Sarah Scales draws on 20 years of New England experience in both residential and commercial design. Over the past decade, she’s focused on residential projects, working closely with architects, builders, and engineers to bring new‑build visions to life… discover more about our technical methods and professional background here.
Boston interior designer Sarah Scales draws on 20 years of New England experience in both residential and commercial design. Complex projects, often lasting 2 to 3 years, benefit from our expertise in construction and meticulous attention to detail – we partner with local, skilled tradespeople (carpenters, millwork specialists, window treatment specialists, and furniture installers) to get our projects to the finish line. The process is challenging yet rewarding, and we’re proud to showcase completed projects that inspire.
Service Areas: New England & Beyond
We design new construction homes throughout New England and beyond. Our project locations include Boston’s suburbs and coastal homes in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Additionally, we have also designed weekend homes nestled in the mountains of Vermont, along the coast of Maine, and in the scenic lake regions of New Hampshire. Early collaboration delivers the best results, and we prefer to work closely with architects and builders from the start… this allows our team to implement strong design concepts. We collaborate from afar, rooted in Boston, making strategic site visits as needed, enabling our team to work throughout the Northeast and beyond. Explore our portfolio which includes new build projects across the region, each reflecting the client’s style and the site’s character. Below, discover some of our fully realized new construction design projects.
Ground-Up Design in Hingham
Our modern Hingham pool house project was designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Collaborating with Estes Twombly + Titrington Architects, we designed the kitchen, bath, and ‘decorated’ the entire structure. While ‘decorate’ isn’t our favorite term, we’re passionate about distinguishing our expertise in space planning and construction planning from the equally important tasks of selecting materials, finishes, and furniture—two very different skill sets. Learn more about Sarah’s education, training, and experience.
This modern pool house showcases tailored design and striking details, crafted to enhance both entertaining and daily living. The kitchen features custom metal cabinetry and two side-by-side islands—one for cocktails, the other for dining. The living room has luxury European furniture and a discreet jib door leading to a bathroom, accessible from indoors and out. Lastly, since we are in New England, classic shiplap complements the teak slat and concrete flooring. Discover more photos from this modern pool house project in New England Home Magazine and in our portfolio.
Playful & Kid Proof in Hingham
A new build can often feel cold and impersonal. For clients seeking warmth and personality beyond white walls and bare floors, our studio offers solutions. In this Hingham project, we transformed the home by adding custom millwork, wallpaper, and thoughtfully selected furniture. Overall, we created inviting, livable spaces for the whole family. On the second floor, we focused on a cozy reading nook, bedrooms, and a shared bathroom. In the basement, we decorated a media room, playroom, and an additional bathroom. The result? A home that feels personal, comfortable, and completely livable. Also designed by Estes Twombly + Titrington Architects, see more photos of this Hingham interior design project in The Boston Globe and in our portfolio.
Beach House Design
Recently completed, this beach house seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. Our new construction design includes expansive windows, stormproof materials, and a nature-inspired palette of blues and whites. Features like a spacious rooftop deck and interior entertaining zones make it the perfect getaway for summer break (or any break). Collaborating with architect Owen Thomas, our studio stepped in to optimize the space plan once the exterior design was complete, and we completed all interior elevations and enlarged floor plan drawings for construction. We followed up with kitchen and bath design, millwork design, and managed the install of all elements.
Starting with the kitchen and bath, we ensured each area functioned exactly as the clients envisioned. From there, we furnished the home, refining the layout to accommodate dining tables, TVs, seating and more. Custom millwork played a key role, adding storage and aesthetic detail throughout. The sunroom – with fir posts, beams, and shiplap – evokes the charm of an old-school porch. Upstairs, we designed a custom bunk bed in the attic, offering space to host an entire family (or simply ALL of the kids). Explore this thoughtfully designed new construction beach house project.
Stowe Ski House
New England construction design can feel cold—especially during those chilly winters. Our Vermont ski house client hired us on to add personality and warmth to their new construction home. We balanced white walls with carefully chosen paint colors, textured wallpapers, and furnishings to create inviting spaces full of character. The homeowner’s handmade furniture pieces add a deeply personal touch. Underfoot, one-of-a-kind vintage rugs introduce a sense of history, depth, and sound absorption (bonus points). The best part – this house is designed for full year use, clients can enjoy a country summer, fall hikes, and more in northern Vermont – not just for skiing. Visit our blog post where we share more decorative details.
Our Design Philosophy
At Sarah Scales Design Studio, we believe every new construction design should reflect its owner’s unique story. Our design process begins with a deep understanding of your vision. We incorporate personalized elements and adaptable spaces that grow with you. See how we organize these large projects by reading about our design process, here.
The studio has over a decade of experience as a new construction interior designer for residential homes. We’ve designed homes ranging from serene coastal escapes to destination ski houses. Each project showcases our ability to merge timeless aesthetics with functional design, tailored to our clients’ lifestyles. Whether by the coast or in the mountains, Sarah Scales Design Studio designs homes that feel considered, personal, and built to last.
