What happens when imperfection becomes intentional? For certain Decorilla interior designers, it’s where wabi-sabi principles meet contemporary minimalism. Today’s spotlight introduces Sharné Labuschagné, whose interiors locate balance through contrast, layering materials until they settle into the unexpected.
Meet Interior Designer: Sharné Labuschagné
Design has been central to Sharné’s work since high school. What sustains her practice today is the process of translating abstract ideas into physical environments that “make people smile.” Each project is a new opportunity to help clients develop a genuine connection to their spaces. In Sharné’s own words, it’s all about finding “that sweet spot”—the point where different elements settle into coherent relationships. That often happens through unexpected juxtapositions that make a room feel balanced, but with an element of surprise.
Sharné works across contemporary minimalism, transitional interiors, and modern design, paying particular attention to wabi-sabi principles and the practice of finding beauty in natural imperfection. Her projects move between serene, pared-back spaces and bolder, more layered compositions depending on what the brief requires. She’s also drawn to environments where contrasts in texture and material create visual interest without competing for attention.
Start a project with Sharné and share her creative interior design vision. Schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation to learn more about working with her today!
Did interior design always interest you?
Yes, interior design has interested me for as long as I can remember. My passion really started back in high school; I’ve always been drawn to beautiful, thoughtfully curated spaces. Even then, I loved paying attention to small details and adding little touches that made a room feel warm, inviting, and personal. Creating spaces that feel like “home” has always come naturally to me, and that early love for aesthetics eventually grew into a full-time career that I genuinely enjoy every day.
How would you define your design style?
My design style has definitely evolved over the years. I initially gravitated toward very sleek and modern aesthetics, but as I grew both personally and professionally, I developed a deep appreciation for transitional and Wabi-Sabi/Japandi design. I love the grounded, calming feel these styles bring—spaces that feel effortlessly warm, lived-in, and full of character.
I’m drawn to layering textures, adding meaningful details, and creating harmony through simplicity. I also enjoy incorporating a subtle element of surprise in every project, whether it’s an unexpected material, a unique silhouette, or a beautifully contrasted finish. Nature is one of my biggest inspirations. Bringing in organic shapes, natural materials, and soft, earthy tones helps me create homes that feel balanced and truly tranquil for my clients.
Who or what influences your work?
I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, but a few designers consistently influence my creative approach. Amber Lewis and Studio McGee are some of those I admire; they both blend styles so effortlessly. I love how they mix different wood tones, patterns, and textures, creating spaces that feel curated, cohesive, and full of character without being overly “matchy.”
That said, when I’m actually designing, I always rely on my own intuition and creativity, following my creative flow. Every space and every client is unique, so I focus on what feels right for the home, rather than copying a specific style. My work naturally gravitates toward incorporating organic elements and touches of nature, because they bring so much warmth, softness, and balance to a room. In the end, my biggest influence is the desire to create spaces that feel authentic and grounded.
What’s a must-have item you make sure your interior designs include?
Good lighting is my absolute must-have in every design. Lighting has the power to completely transform a space—it can set the mood, highlight architectural features, and bring warmth and dimension to a room. I always say that lighting can either make or break a design, because even the most beautifully curated space won’t feel complete without the right illumination.
Whether it’s layered ambient lighting, statement pendants, or soft accent lighting, it’s always one of the final touches that ties everything together and creates the atmosphere my clients are looking for.
What is a recent design trend that you’re loving at the moment?
One trend I’m absolutely loving right now is biophilic design. Bringing the outdoors in has become such an essential part of creating calming, connected spaces, and I love how this trend enhances both aesthetics and overall well-being. For me, it’s about more than adding a few plants—it’s about thoughtfully incorporating nature into the home through:
- Indoor greenery and living walls that add life and texture
- Abundant natural light through large windows and open sightlines
- Organic shapes and natural materials in furniture and décor
- Earthy tones and layered textures that evoke a grounded, serene atmosphere
Biophilic design creates spaces that feel restorative, which is something many clients are craving right now. It’s a trend that goes beyond style—it truly improves how we feel in our homes.
If you had to pick a favorite room in your home, which would it be and why?
My favorite room in my home would have to be the living room. I’ve always loved a thoughtfully designed lounge area—it’s the heart of the home and the place where my family naturally gathers. It’s where we unwind, enjoy a cup of coffee, have real conversations, and make so many of our everyday memories.
What makes this space so special to me is how it blends comfort with connection. When the furniture layout is intentional, and the flow feels natural, it becomes a room that truly welcomes you in. Good space planning, cozy textures, and meaningful details all come together to create a place that feels lived-in—unmistakably “home.”
What is your favorite design magazine or blog, and why?
I’d have to say Studio McGee’s blog is my favorite. Their tips are accessible for clients who want to improve their homes, yet still insightful and valuable from a designer’s perspective. I also connect deeply with their design style, which aligns closely with my own aesthetic.
What is the best thing about being an interior designer?
The best part of being an interior designer is the joy of making clients genuinely happy. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing a client’s reaction when their space finally comes to life—those moments make all the hard work worth it. I feel very privileged to be invited into such personal aspects of people’s lives and to help design the spaces where they relax, grow, and create memories with their friends and family.
Building meaningful relationships with my clients is a massive part of the process for me. When I truly understand who they are and how they live, I’m able to create designs that feel authentic, functional, and deeply personal. That connection—and the trust clients place in me—is what makes this career so special.
What was your first big project, and what was your favorite part?
My first big project as one of the Decorilla designers was a multi-space new build, and it will always be a special one for me. I worked with a truly wonderful client who trusted the process from start to finish. I was involved in everything—from guiding the early architectural decisions and wall placements all the way to styling the final accessories on the coffee table.
The spaces I designed included the kitchen, main bedroom, main bathroom, lounge, and dining room. My favorite part of the project was watching the entire home come to life. There’s something magical about seeing ideas that once existed only on a screen or in my mind become a real, lived-in space. The relationship I built with the client was equally meaningful—we collaborated so well, and being part of her journey made the experience incredibly rewarding.
How do you manage challenges that come up during a design project?
Because Decorilla designers work on an online platform, communication is key when challenges arise. Whenever something comes up, I like to schedule a video call with my clients. Meeting face-to-face, even virtually, helps us work through challenges more quickly and brainstorm solutions together in a productive, personal way. Clients really appreciate a proactive approach—it shows that I’m fully invested in their project and committed to keeping things moving smoothly. These conversations not only resolve issues efficiently but also strengthen our collaboration and ensure the final design stays aligned with their vision.
Why do you like online interior design?
I love online interior design because it opens the door to a completely new way of connecting with clients. Being a member of Decorilla designers and able to work with people from anywhere in the world is incredibly rewarding—it removes limitations and allows me to design for a wide range of spaces, styles, and lifestyles. There’s also something really special about receiving photos of completed rooms and seeing the designs come to life from a distance. That element of surprise never gets old.
Online design also pushes me creatively. Because I work with so many different clients and project types, I’m constantly exposed to new styles, trends, and challenges. It gives me the time and space to think deeply, refine my skills, and explore fresh ideas. Ultimately, it allows me to grow as a designer while giving clients an accessible, modern way to transform their homes.
Ready for your ideal match with a Decorilla designer?
Start a project with Sharné if you love her work! Or, schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation so Decorilla can help match you with your perfect designer today!
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