Interview with Sofia Langstrom of Nordhavn Designs

When I first connected with Sofia Langstrom online during the early days of the pandemic, I was just starting my journey into the world of interior design. Back then, I was deep into researching how designers were adapting both their creative processes and business strategies to the new normal. The world was changing rapidly, and so was the design industry. Sofia and I bonded over this shared interest, and our conversations quickly became a regular part of my research. So, when I came across the idea of interviewing someone for this prompt, I knew exactly who to reach out to. Sofia, the founder of Nordhavn Designs based in a quaint coastal town in Denmark, may not be globally renowned, but she is undoubtedly a source of inspiration with her remarkable journey and invaluable insights.

Q: Sofia, let’s rewind to the beginning. How did you first get into interior design?

Sofia Langstrom: It’s funny looking back now because it all started so unexpectedly. I was actually working as a graphic designer when the pandemic hit and suddenly found myself with a lot of time on my hands. Like everyone, I was spending more time at home, and I became obsessed with making my space feel more comfortable and functional. I started with small projects—rearranging furniture, playing with colors, and eventually redesigning entire rooms. A friend asked me for help with her place, and that’s when the lightbulb moment happened. I thought, “This is what I want to do.” So, I dove headfirst into learning everything I could about interior design.

Q: Your business, Nordhavn Designs, has taken on a wide variety of projects. Can you share a few that were particularly memorable?

Sofia Langstrom: Oh, where do I start? One of my favorites was transforming an old warehouse into a modern co-working space. The building had so much character—exposed brick, high ceilings, and huge windows. The challenge was preserving that industrial charm while making it feel welcoming and functional for the people working there. I had to get creative with space planning and material choices, but the result was incredible.

On the other end of the spectrum, I once designed a tiny exhibition booth for a local artisan. It was literally just a few square meters, but the client wanted it to stand out in a crowded market. I had to think small in terms of space but big in terms of impact. It was a lesson in making the most out of limited resources.

Q: What were some of the most challenging aspects of running your business, especially in those early days?

Sofia Langstrom: Oh, there were plenty! [Laughs] I think the hardest part was learning to wear so many hats. As a designer, you want to focus on the creative side, but running a business means you have to handle everything—marketing, pricing, client management, even chasing down payments. I remember my first project where I underpriced myself by a mile. It was a tough pill to swallow, but I learned quickly that valuing your work properly is key to sustaining your business.

Then there were the moments of pure chaos—like when a vendor would miss a deadline, and I’d be left scrambling to find a replacement. I learned that having a network of reliable suppliers is crucial, and building those relationships takes time and effort.

Q: Speaking of chaos, the pandemic threw a wrench into everyone’s plans. How did you adapt to the challenges that came with it?

Sofia Langstrom: The pandemic was like a storm that shook everything up. Suddenly, all my in-person projects were put on hold, and I had to pivot fast. I started offering virtual design consultations, which was something I’d never done before. It was a steep learning curve, but it opened up new opportunities—clients who wouldn’t have reached out to me otherwise were suddenly interested in making their homes more functional and comfortable.

I also noticed a shift in what people wanted. There was a huge demand for multifunctional spaces—home offices, workout areas, and cozy nooks for relaxation. I had to rethink design principles to meet these new needs, and it was both challenging and exciting.

Q: Design trends come and go. How do you balance staying on trend with maintaining a sense of personalization and timelessness in your designs?

Sofia Langstrom: That’s a great question. Trends are fun, and they can inject a lot of energy into a space, but I’m always cautious about going all-in on something that might look dated in a few years. I try to use trends in a way that complements the client’s personality and the existing architecture. For example, if someone wants a bold, trendy color, I might suggest using it on an accent wall or in accessories rather than committing to a whole room. This way, it’s easier to update later.

At the same time, I encourage clients to invest in classic pieces that won’t go out of style—things like well-made furniture, neutral tones, and natural materials. It’s all about creating a balance that feels fresh but also stands the test of time.

Q: What are some common mistakes people make in DIY projects that they often overlook?

Sofia Langstrom: Oh, there are so many! [Laughs] One big mistake is underestimating the importance of scale and proportion. People often choose furniture that’s either too big or too small for their space, which can throw off the entire room. Another common error is neglecting lighting. A beautifully designed room can fall flat if the lighting isn’t right. Layering different types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—is key to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Another one I see a lot is rushing the process. Good design takes time. People get excited and want to see results quickly, but skipping the planning phase or not considering the long-term use of the space can lead to regrets down the road.

Q: Budgeting is always a major concern. How do you approach budgeting and time management for a full apartment makeover versus a whole house renovation?

Sofia Langstrom: Budgeting is definitely one of the trickiest parts. For a full apartment makeover, I typically suggest setting aside at least 20-30% of the budget for unexpected expenses. It’s inevitable that something will come up, whether it’s a structural issue or a change in plans. For time management, I usually plan for a few months from start to finish, depending on the complexity of the project.

A whole house renovation is a different beast. It requires meticulous planning and a bigger contingency budget, usually around 30-40%. The timeline can stretch anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the scope. It’s important to break it down into phases to avoid feeling overwhelmed and to allow for any adjustments along the way.

Q: One aspect that often goes overlooked is designing for seniors. How do you approach creating spaces that are functional and safe for older adults?

Sofia Langstrom: Designing for seniors requires a thoughtful approach that balances safety with comfort. For example, I focus on eliminating tripping hazards by choosing slip-resistant flooring and ensuring that all areas are well-lit. I also consider accessibility—things like wider doorways, lever handles instead of doorknobs, and walk-in showers with seating can make a huge difference in maintaining independence.

But it’s not just about safety; it’s also about creating a space that feels warm and inviting. Incorporating comfortable seating, personal mementos, and easy-to-reach storage can help make the space feel like home.

Q: Let’s talk about a less discussed challenge—designing for roommates while maintaining privacy and peace. How do you tackle this?

Sofia Langstrom: That’s a tricky one! When you’re designing for roommates, the key is to create defined spaces that respect each person’s privacy while still allowing for shared areas. One effective strategy is using room dividers or even strategically placed furniture to carve out personal zones within a shared space.

Acoustics are another important factor. Adding rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture can help absorb sound and reduce noise between rooms. And when it comes to shared spaces like the kitchen or living room, clear communication and setting ground rules from the start can prevent conflicts down the line.

Q: The design industry has seen its share of ups and downs, especially with recent market volatility. How do you stay afloat during these times, and what strategies have you used to adapt to changing client needs?

Sofia Langstrom: Staying afloat in a volatile market is all about flexibility and innovation. During the economic downturns, I had to be more flexible with my pricing, offering more budget-friendly options without compromising on quality. I also started focusing more on client retention—keeping in touch with past clients, offering them new services, and just being there as a resource. It helped keep the connection strong and led to repeat business.

Adapting to changing client needs meant offering new solutions, like virtual consultations and e-design services. I also noticed a shift in the kinds of spaces people needed—suddenly, everyone was looking for ways to make their homes more multifunctional. It was a challenge, but it also pushed me to think creatively and come up with new design solutions that could meet these evolving demands.

Q: You’ve navigated some pretty tough waters. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in interior design, especially in today’s unpredictable world?

Sofia Langstrom: First, don’t be afraid to start small. Every project, no matter how minor it seems, is a chance to learn and grow. Build your portfolio with whatever you can, and don’t shy away from the less glamorous jobs—they often teach you the most.

Second, adaptability is everything. The market can change in an instant, and you have to be willing to pivot. Whether it’s offering new services, like virtual consultations, or rethinking design strategies to meet new needs, flexibility is key to survival.And finally, stay true to your vision. It’s easy to get lost in trends or what others are doing, but your unique perspective is what will set you apart. Trust your instincts and keep pushing forward, even when the road gets bumpy.

Wow, What an Experience!

Connecting with Sofia over the years has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I’m so grateful she took the time to share her journey with us. Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of following your passion. Sofia, thank you for your insights, your humor, and for being a constant source of inspiration. Here’s to continuing our journey together and to many more years of friendship and design!