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ABOUT SUSAN CALABRIA
A New York-based interior designer, Susan Calabria is known for her mastery of color, trend forecasting, and textile design. With over two decades of experience, she approaches every project with a refined sensibility, seamlessly blending artistry and functionality to create spaces that feel both curated and effortless.
Susan began her career as Design Director at Schumacher & Company (1998–2001), one of the world’s most prestigious textile and wallcovering manufacturers. Working closely with top interior designers, she created high-end fabric collections and sharpened her talent for identifying emerging textile and interior design movements.
In 2002, she launched Susan Calabria Design, an interior design firm offering clients a uniquely tailored luxury experience. Her design philosophy centers on discovering the DNA of each client—their essence, lifestyle, and aspirations—to craft deeply personal interiors that resonate emotionally. Susan engages in an intuitive process of understanding her clients, uncovering the unspoken elements that define their sense of home and well-being. She distills their individuality into a cohesive design language through thoughtful conversations and meticulous observation, ensuring every space tells their unique story.
A firm believer in the power of sensory design, Susan has developed a design formula that integrates the five senses to create spaces of harmony and comfort. She thoughtfully curates color palettes to influence mood, selects textures that invite touch, and strategically incorporates lighting to create an environment that feels just right. Susan creates visually stunning and holistic environments by engaging all the senses.
Specializing in both residential and commercial projects, her work spans New York City, Long Island, The Hamptons, Florida, Texas and beyond. Her deep understanding of color and materials also led her to Scalamandré (2010–2012), where she served as Creative Director, designing fabrics, wallcoverings, and furniture collections that continue to shape the industry today.
Today, Susan consults for leading textile manufacturers and mills across the U.S. and internationally, crafting exclusive designs and bespoke color palettes that reflect each client’s unique vision. Her work is distinguished by its thoughtful layering of textures, expert use of color, and timeless appeal.
A Long Island native, Susan studied Fine Arts and Textile Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She later continued her education at Cal State Long Beach and the New York School of Interior Design.
Beyond her interior design practice, Susan is the founder of The Blue Whale, a coastal-inspired home décor boutique in Cold Spring Harbor, NY. Paying homage to the town’s rich maritime history, the shop offers a carefully curated selection of home accents and lifestyle pieces that celebrate the beauty of coastal living. Visit The Blue Whale at 181 Main Street, Cold Spring Harbor (Garden Entrance), or follow along on Instagram @thebluewhalecsh.