Susana Stolear | Blending Architecture and Luxury in Miami’s Design Scene

Meet Susana Stolear
Founder & Interior Designer
Luxury Guide Design Curator

Susana Stolear, the visionary founder of Stol Design Group, is renowned for her ability to blend architectural elements with luxurious, contemporary interiors. With over 35 years of experience, Susana brings her expertise in interior architecture and design to high-end residential and commercial projects across Miami and beyond. Having started her career in Caracas as an architect, Susana later transitioned into interior design, establishing her own firm in 2013 after leading architectural projects around the world.

With a focus on creating personalized, elegant spaces that reflect her clients’ tastes and lifestyles, Susana’s designs are both aesthetically stunning and highly functional. Her meticulous attention to detail and dedication to client satisfaction make her a sought-after designer for those looking to transform their spaces into modern masterpieces.

Luxury Guide had the pleasure of speaking with Susana Stolear to uncover the inspiration behind her work, her go-to design principles, and what defines luxury in her eyes.

Q&A WITH SUSANA STOLEAR

What inspired you to become an interior designer?
I’ve always been drawn to the emotional power of spaces. Even as a child, I would rearrange rooms to explore how layout and lighting changed the way they felt. Over time, I realized how design can genuinely enhance everyday life—not just aesthetically but functionally. Creating spaces that reflect the personality and needs of those who live or work in them is what excites me most.

Can you share a pivotal moment that shaped your career?
Presenting a hotel design concept in China—through a translator and to a room of investors—was a defining moment. It taught me that design is a universal language. That experience sharpened my communication skills and gave me the confidence to present and defend my work on a global stage.

Describe your design style in three words.
Clean, fresh, and elegant—even when casual.

What do you enjoy most about the design process?
The transformation. I love watching a concept evolve into reality, step by step—from the initial creative spark to the material selections and collaborative construction phase. There’s so much joy in bringing a vision to life with clients, craftsmen, and contractors by your side.

DESIGN PREFERENCES & INSIGHTS

What types of projects or clients do you gravitate toward?
I primarily work on residential renovations. I love transforming spaces—especially once a few walls come down and new possibilities open up.

What’s one design element you often return to?
Respecting visual axis is key. Aligning focal points like lighting or furniture along natural sightlines creates a subconscious sense of harmony. I also love layering textures—mixing materials like stone, linen, and wood adds warmth and richness, especially in minimalist spaces.

Where do you find inspiration?
Attending Salone del Mobile in Milan is always incredibly inspiring. I also love browsing Instagram to see the fresh ideas and styles other designers are exploring.

What’s a common design mistake you see—and how do you fix it?
Misalignment. People often place elements without considering symmetry or architectural flow. I always begin by analyzing the architecture, establishing strong reference lines, and then layering in furnishings that respect those anchors. This approach brings clarity and cohesion to any space.

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Sunny Isles 2

In a sleek Sunny Isles residence, Susana faced a design challenge that many would consider a flaw: two concrete support columns awkwardly positioned in the center of the living room. Rather than conceal them, she turned them into a stunning focal point by wrapping them in richly textured wood paneling and adding subtle lighting. The result? A striking architectural feature that brings warmth, depth, and intentionality to the entire space.

Jade 1 & Jade 2

In another high-rise project, the client needed functional storage in the dining area—but without sacrificing the open, airy feel of the space. Susana’s solution was both clever and beautiful: a floating buffet seamlessly integrated into custom wall paneling. The concealed storage keeps the space clutter-free, while the minimalist design maintains a sense of elegance and lightness. It’s a masterclass in blending utility with refined aesthetics.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Advice for someone refreshing their home?
Start with a clear vision and stick to a consistent palette. Prioritize layout, lighting, and foundational elements before adding personality through art and accessories. And always pay attention to proportion and alignment—it’s often the small details that elevate the whole space.

What does luxury mean to you in design?
Luxury is about quality, intention, and comfort. It’s not about price—it’s about creating a space that feels effortlessly refined and uniquely personal. Luxury is in the details—perfect proportions, natural light, custom finishes, and thoughtful flow that supports how people actually live.

Stol Design Group
Susana Stolear
www.stoldesigngroup.com
[email protected]
IG: @stoldesigngroup