Design as Storytelling: Vintage, Restraint, and Character with Sarah Lyon
In this episode of Highly Affected by Her Surroundings, Nicole Roe sits down with writer and stylist Sarah Lyon to explore how design becomes meaningful through storytelling, restraint, and character.
Sarah’s work lives at the intersection of design, culture, and editorial storytelling. As a contributor to Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Real Simple, Good Housekeeping, The New York Times, and more, she brings a thoughtful, nuanced perspective to how spaces are shaped and styled. Beyond writing, Sarah works with designers, editors, and brands to prepare homes for photo shoots, campaigns, and events, using vintage pieces and layered details to create rooms that feel lived in rather than staged.
Together, Nicole and Sarah discuss why vintage adds depth that new pieces cannot, how restraint can be more powerful than excess, and why character is built over time. They cover flea market strategy, organized maximalism, breaking design rules in small spaces, and what editors are truly looking for when featuring designers.
This conversation is a reminder that homes are not meant to be perfect. They are meant to support real life, hold stories, and reflect the people who live within them.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear About
Why vintage pieces bring character and individuality to a space
How to shop flea markets with confidence and intention
Organized maximalism versus minimalism
Design rules worth breaking, especially in small spaces
What editors and writers look for when featuring designers
How storytelling shapes both writing and interiors
Guest Information
Sarah Lyon
Freelance writer and stylist
Follow Sarah Lyon for vintage finds and editorial inspiration:
Instagram: @sarahlyon9
Website: sarahilyon.com
Follow Nicole
Instagram: @rnicksoninteriors
Instagram: @the.nicoleroe
