Sydney Kaufman
Interior Designer
M.S. Psychology, Arizona State University
B.A. Psychology, Arizona State University
A.A. Interior Design, Scottsdale Community College
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
With a master’s degree in psychology, Sydney developed a keen interest in how spaces influence people’s behavior and emotions. This curiosity ultimately led her to pursue interior design, where she combines her understanding of human interaction with her passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces. Her unique perspective allows her to thoughtfully design environments that resonate both aesthetically and emotionally, enhancing how people live and feel within them.
Sydney’s design inspiration is eclectic, drawing from the nostalgia of old movies and the organic beauty of nature. Whether it’s the calming tones of the desert or the layered textures found in the natural world, she weaves these influences into her designs, creating spaces that feel both rooted in history and fresh in their approach.
A passionate traveler, Sydney finds inspiration in the diverse cultures and environments she encounters. Each destination adds new layers of creativity to her work, expanding her design perspective and infusing her projects with a sense of global influence.
When she’s not designing, Sydney explores her other creative outlets—shooting film, expanding her vinyl collection (with a special love for jazz), or diving into science fiction novels. These hobbies fuel her imagination and keep her connected to the things that inspire her most.
Sydney’s approach to design is deeply personal. She believes that spaces should tell the story of the people who live in them, blending aesthetics with purpose to create environments that feel authentic and meaningful. Her ultimate goal is to craft spaces that not only look stunning but enhance the way people live, work, and relax.
Get To Know Sydney
Describe your design aesthetic/signature style in three words:
Balanced, Thoughtful and Expressive
What is your favorite part about design and/or favorite step in the design process?
My favorite part of the design process is learning about the people who will actually use the space and understanding how they will interact with it. With a background in psychology, I’m fascinated by how a space can influence emotions and behaviors, and I love designing with that in mind.
If you had a design mantra or phrase that you live by in all your designs, what would it be?
Create with intention, design with purpose, and allow spaces to grow into their own over time.
Bucket list destination or place you want to visit:
Kyoto
What is the coolest part about your job?
The coolest part of my job is transforming someone’s ideas into a tangible space that not maximizes its potential and also impacts their mood and emotions in a meaningful way!
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Creative, Intentional and Passionate
What is your favorite local shop/restaurant in Phoenix?
Modern Manor and Kaizen!