Meet Sam Vanek
Founder and Principle Designer at Elevated by Sam Vanek
Hello!
The interior design journey has been a long and fulfilling one for me — it all began when I was ten years old and insisted on painting my bedroom walls fuchsia pink and neon orange. Let’s just say… my eye for design has grown a lot since then.
Today, interior design is not just what I do — it’s how I help people live better, more aligned lives. I believe our homes are the backdrop to our most meaningful memories, and when designed with intention, they can bring ease, beauty, and joy into our everyday routines.
That’s the value I bring: thoughtful, elevated spaces that reflect who you are and support how you want to live.
When I’m not fulfilling this life-long dream, you’ll find me in the mountains with my family — or dancing in the kitchen to Frozen’s “Let It Go” with my two little girls.
My Design Process
My design process, refined by years of experience, is built to make your project feel seamless and intentional from start to finish.
With a structured yet flexible approach, I guide you through every step — from initial concept to final installation — ensuring your home is not only beautifully designed, but thoughtfully aligned with the way you live.
01
DISCOVERY & CONSULTATION
We begin with a conversation — a deep dive into your lifestyle, vision, and goals for the project and your home. This is where we uncover the areas of your home that aren't currently serving you, and then move into how you want your space to feel, function, and flow.
02
DESIGN DIRECTION
After understanding your needs and vision, I craft a clear and cohesive design plan. This includes detailed construction drawings such as floor plans and elevations, conceptual design boards, curated material and finish selections, furniture and decor selections, and 3D renderings to help you fully visualize the space. Every element is tailored — not just to look beautiful, but to support the way you live. Procurement is thoughtfully managed to ensure every selection aligns seamlessly with the design.
03
REFINEMENT & COLLABORATION
This is where you’ll have the opportunity to review and respond to the design direction. We collaborate to fine-tune the details until you love every single detail — visually and practically.
04
PROCUREMENT & PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Once the design is finalized, I handle all sourcing, ordering, and communication with vendors and trades. Every detail is managed with care to ensure timelines are met and nothing is overlooked. I take on the heavy lifting — so you don’t have to stress over logistics, back-and-forth decisions, or endless to-do lists. This is where the vision starts coming to life, without the overwhelm.
05
INSTALLATION & STYLING
This is where thoughtful planning and creative vision come to life. From furniture placement to finishing touches, your home is styled with love and care to feel curated, complete, and uniquely yours.
Every project is a collaboration — built on trust, clarity, and shared vision. That’s why these values are at the core of how I work with my clients:
01
COMMUNICATION
Design should feel approachable and exciting, not overwhelming. I prioritize clear communication at every step so you always feel informed and confident in the process. Communication is the foundation of every successful project.
02
TRUST
Working on something as personal as your home requires trust — and I don’t take that lightly. I lead with transparency, honesty, and care, honoring your input while guiding you with expertise to create a cohesive, elevated result.
03
INTENTION
Nothing is arbitrary. Every selection is made with purpose — to support how you live, not just how things look.
04
EASE
My job is to take the stress off your plate. I handle the heavy lifting so you can actually enjoy the process and be excited about creating a home that feels like you.
