Amy’s approach to remodels in Susanville begins with a deep respect for the region’s architectural heritage, particularly in areas like Susan Hills, where homes often reflect the area’s mid-20th-century building traditions. Many of these homes were constructed with a practical, no-frills aesthetic, think simple ranch-style layouts, sturdy wooden framing, and durable materials suited to the high desert climate. She frequently preserves original features like exposed beams, original wood paneling, or the sturdy brickwork found in some older homes, but she balances preservation with thoughtful updates. For instance, if a client wants an updated kitchen, she might retain the home’s built-in cabinetry or vintage woodwork while introducing modern finishes, such as matte black or warm white cabinetry, to create contrast without overwhelming the home’s character. The goal is to maintain the home’s historical roots while ensuring it meets the needs of contemporary living, whether for a family expanding their space or an older resident looking to age comfortably in place. Given Susanville’s layout, with many homes offering easy access to outdoor spaces, she often suggests expanding patios or adding covered porches to take full advantage of the high desert’s crisp mornings and cool evenings.
The climate and local landscape heavily influence Amy’s material choices, as Susanville’s high desert environment brings hot, dry summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters. To combat these extremes, she prioritizes insulation, durable finishes, and materials that regulate indoor comfort. Reclaimed wood from the region, often sourced from old barns or local mills, is a staple in her designs, offering both a connection to the area’s history and natural humidity resistance. Walls and textiles often feature earthy, muted tones inspired by the surrounding terrain, such as warm ochres, sage greens, or soft blues that echo the colors of Lassen County’s sagebrush and distant hills. For finishes, she favors low-VOC paints and natural, breathable materials like linoleum in kitchens to maintain good indoor air quality, which is especially important in a region where wildfire smoke can occasionally affect the air. Drawing on Susanville’s agricultural and ranching past, she might incorporate functional nods to that heritage, such as a barn-style door for a pantry or a range hood designed to resemble old irrigation systems. The result is a home that feels deeply tied to its environment while remaining personal and livable.
Amy’s design process is rooted in understanding her clients’ connection to Susanville’s landscape and lifestyle. Whether working with longtime residents or newcomers drawn to the area’s wide-open spaces, she starts by asking how they envision their home, whether they prefer a cozy, intimate feel or an airy, expansive layout that mirrors the surrounding hills. For families with children, she might design a mudroom with ample storage for outdoor gear, reflecting the community’s love of hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. For empty-nesters, she often focuses on creating a tranquil master suite, perhaps with a soaking tub and views of the Susan Hills. Her designs align with Susanville Interior Design’s signature blend of rustic warmth and modern simplicity, such as pairing a reclaimed wood dining table with sleek lighting or surrounding a stone fireplace with floating shelves. Yet the true strength of her work lies in helping clients find their own voice within that framework, whether through a bold accent wall in a historic home or a minimalist refresh in a newer neighborhood. The end result is always intentional, functional, and distinctly Susanville.
