An Interview With Martita Mestey
Be selfless. Sharing unique skills, whether through mentoring or donating your time and services, can foster a sense of community and purpose. While there is a time and place for business, extending personal gifts into other areas of your life can lead to a more fulfilling and enriching work experience.
As a part of my series about ”individuals and organizations making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Sarah Barnard.
Sarah Barnard, WELL AP + LEED AP, is a leading designer of personalized, sustainable spaces that support mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. An advocate for consciousness, inclusivity and compassion in the creative process, Sarah’s work has been recognized by Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Vogue, HGTV, and many other publications. In 2017 Sarah was recognized as a “Ones to Watch” Scholar by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
I grew up in several historic homes throughout Los Angeles, which inspired a sense of care and respect for building and design from a young age. Since my childhood, I have loved spending my time outdoors and felt closely connected to Southern California’sCalifornia’s unique natural diversity. My exposure to historic homes, combined with an appreciation of nature, ignited my passion for preservation, environmental responsibility, and wellness-focused design. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to incorporate my passions for environmental health into my professional practice as an interior designer and have pursued a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credential in 2007 and became a WELL Accredited Professional in 2017.
You are currently leading a social impact organization that is making a difference for our planet. Can you tell us a bit about what you and your organization are trying to change in our world today?
The mass production of furnishings and goods has led to efficient and inexpensive production, unfortunately often at the cost of environmental and human health and wellbeing. It’s our goal to draw attention to the desire and the market for thoughtfully and sustainably produced products by creating eco-friendly home goods that foster a connection to nature. We hope that home furnishings and decor made with sustainable and no or low VOC materials can become the rule, not the exception. By introducing options that speak to our studio’s love of nature, we are making conscious options publicly available that speak to a need for beauty and wellbeing in the home.
Can you tell us the backstory about what inspired you to originally feel passionate about this cause?
Growing up, one thing I always looked forward to was visiting my grandparents in Joshua Tree. While I recognized something magical about their home, it wasn’t until I was older that I appreciated how successfully integrated their home was into the desert landscape. It seemed to be as adapted to the environment as the roadrunners and Joshua trees. The house was designed to naturally regulate temperature through the levels of the home, with a decorative rock garden all working symbiotically with the environment. Experiencing a home that embraced its surroundings at such an early age heavily inspired my work and drive to create spaces that respected and celebrated nature.
Many of us have ideas, dreams, and passions, but never manifest them. They don’tdon’t get up and just do it. But you did. Was there an “Aha Moment” that made you decide that you were actually going to step up and do it? What was that final trigger?
I went on a trip to Pismo Beach to see the Monarch butterflies during their winter stay, photographing the butterflies, sea birds, and surrounding nature. It was such a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience, and I wanted to take a piece of it home with me. I have been creating bespoke furnishings and home goods for clients throughout my work as a designer. After the trip to Pismo, I realized that I wanted to broaden that practice and design nature-inspired home goods that weren’t necessarily client specific. Kale Tree has given me the opportunity to bring nature into more homes than I could through my interior design practice alone.
Many people don’t know the steps to take to start a new organization. But you did. What are some of the things or steps you took to get your project started?
- Give yourself time to reflect on your goals and relax your mind. We rarely set aside time to clear the constant noise in our heads, especially when starting a new project. Allowing your mind to rest and wander can provide space for new ideas to spark. Spend time in nature, go for a walk, or simply cozy up in your favorite place in your home to encourage mindful relaxation.
- Appreciate the learning process. Even in frustrating moments, take a moment to appreciate the opportunity to learn and improve. Many great ideas come out of having to problem solve unexpected challenges.
- Maintain your hobbies outside of the scope of your project. Allowing yourself time to explore interests outside your project will leave you feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and ready to return to work. I find inspiration for my home design projects while gardening, cooking for my family, and spending time outdoors.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
After being awarded as an ASID scholar, I was among a group of awardees invited to visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Meyer May House and experience the location as guests. While I had studied many significant architectural spaces, having the opportunity to experience one so intimately, including enjoying a formal meal in the dining room, I was able to experience firsthand the intricacies of the work of one of the earliest celebrated biophilic designers. That experience has emphasized the importance of incorporating nature in the home, both through views and through materials, whether by using organic materials or natural patterning and prints.
Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson or take away you learned from that?
When I was in art school, I had a teacher pull me aside after a critique to talk about intention. I worked intuitively, and she had implored me to investigate why I was making certain decisions. Asking “why” began to change my art practice and later shaped my design approach. By determining why I am selecting specific colors and materials, I can ensure that every decision is backed with intent. The intent is crucial visually and for greater conceptual underpinnings and goals with my designs. Why is this solution the most supportive one for my client? How is this product an environmentally responsible selection? Intuition is an essential part of art-making, but learning to understand and back those decisions has made my work feel whole, intentional, and supportive of my sustainable work practices.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
Candace Wheeler was a designer of textiles and interiors and is often credited as the “mother” of interior design. An early feminist leader, Wheeler paved the way for creative women to pursue art and design as a career rather than a hobby in an era where women were not encouraged to seek independence. Wheeler became one of the first women to produce designs for American manufacturers and created multiple successful lines of biophilic textiles. In 1833, she formed her women-led design firm, Associated Artists, empowering women to become established professional designers.
Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
There is often a disconnect between our built and natural environments. Conscious home design can improve mental wellbeing by nurturing a stronger connection to nature while maintaining an awareness of environmental health.
1) Issues as large as climate change and its impact can feel daunting to approach as an individual. However, the accumulative effect of many individuals can be vast. Making an effort to repair, repurpose, or up-cycle is a significant first step in conscious redesign. When it is time to part with something, consider donating or recycling. Selecting organic and eco-conscious home materials helps with the environmental impact of the life cycle of home goods while sending a message to the industry that there is a demand for these products. Being vocal about a desire for sustainable materials and practices can make a difference in the availability of these items and the decisions of existing and new businesses.
2) There is a tendency to consider humans as other from nature instead of a part of it. Making a shift in thinking of ourselves as an active part of our natural environment can help alter our decisions, actions, and purchases in a way that may positively impact surrounding nature. When building or remodeling, considering the surrounding ecosystem and making decisions conscious of birds, bees, and wild growth can lead to healthy coexistence. Our homes are often within the homes of many other living creatures. Planting or providing habitat in our gardens or even putting out a bowl of water can make a difference in preserving local wildlife.
3. While we are seeing a demand from many of our clients for natural and eco-friendly materials, it can still be challenging to find ethically sourced raw materials. It’s important for consumers to make their voices and preferences heard to increase the availability of these materials for growing demand. For our industry, in particular, there is a limited supply of certified organic linens, a material we’d love to see more readily available.
How would you articulate how a business can become more profitable by being more sustainable and more environmentally conscious? Can you share a story or example?
I believe there is a significant desire for sustainable, vegan options across all industries. One company that has succeeded by doing this is Rothy’s, with their innovative approach to sustainable and vegan fashion with products made from recycled single-use plastic water bottles, ocean plastic, and algae-based foam. Rothy’s is an excellent example of a company that can maintain huge success while staying true to its mission. Rothy’s was recently valued at $1 billion, reflecting the shifting preferences towards sustainable and vegan options.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why. Please share a story or example for each.
1) Honor the need for restoration. We tend to throw ourselves into our projects, neglecting self-care and rest. Taking a step back, engaging senses, appreciating the present moment, and enjoying stillness can curb the experience of burnout. Setting aside daily time for something fulfilling that creates a sense of calm and joy is as vital as any to-do list item.
2) Find your “why.” Understanding the big picture behind your goals and intentions can help keep you motivated throughout the day-to-day minutia. My “why” is moving towards a more sustainable and well future. Returning to this as a focus has shaped my career and continued passion for design.
3) Nourish your social connections. Humans are social by nature, and social relationships can promote mood-boosting effects that offer support and confidence. While it’s easy to get caught up in work and deprioritize time with friends and family, that time is crucial for staying grounded and creating balance.
4) Focus on the process rather than the outcome. Many of us struggle to remove ourselves from self-criticism, which can damage our sense of worth. Maintaining a gentle, growth-minded approach to work encourages curiosity over criticism. We are only human, and mistakes are inevitable; embracing them as an opportunity for reflection and change leads to a healthy and forward-moving work practice.
5) Be selfless. Sharing unique skills, whether through mentoring or donating your time and services, can foster a sense of community and purpose. While there is a time and place for business, extending personal gifts into other areas of your life can lead to a more fulfilling and enriching work experience.
If you could tell other young people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?
Recently, we have seen admirable efforts from young people protesting against racial and environmental injustices. There is a lot to be learned from observing the messages coming from our youth. I hope older generations embrace the younger’s sense of urgency to improve environmental health for the future.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
Rachel Carson is a marine biologist who helped raise awareness of harmful pesticides. She once said, “In nature, nothing exists alone.” This short quote holds a powerful meaning and resonates strongly with the ethos of my design practice, which focuses on a cosmopolitical approach to wellness-focused and nature-inspired design. By recognizing the impact of our decisions and making choices that support all living things, we can improve our wellbeing and the environment. Taking a broader perspective of human participation within our local ecosystem is critical for my design practice and future environmental healing.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
I’ve always admired Meryl Streep’s advocacy work regarding safer, healthier farming practices. She has been involved in environmental activism since the 1980s and created “Mothers and Others” to advocate for more healthful farming standards for produce and educate consumers. She has since used her celebrity status to raise awareness towards safer and sustainable growing practices. I believe that these same standards for food should apply across all industries, and we should be pushing for more naturally produced items for our homes. I’d be interested in learning more bout her work as an activist and discussing these ideas further!
How can our readers follow you online?
You can visit Kale Tree at www.kaletree.com or follow us on Instagram at @kaletreeshop. My interior design work can be found at www.sarahbarnard.com
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
Social Impact Heroes Helping Our Planet: Why & How Sarah Barnard Is Helping To Change Our World was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.