Madeleine Sloback
From early on in her career, Madeleine Sloback discovered that residential design was her true passion. The greatest reward for her comes from seeing collaborative efforts with clients transform into beautifully curated spaces that reflect their unique needs and visions.
With over a decade in business, she’s had the privilege of working on hundreds of homes and connecting with a diverse range of personalities. Madeleine thrives on the opportunity to engage with new clients and envision how to bring their dreams to life.
Her expertise extends beyond client interactions, she’s applied her skills to three personal home renovations and started her professional journey in finishing carpentry. Leading a team of skilled designers, Madeleine draws from her hands-on experience and knowledge of construction to ensure every project is a success.
1. Could you tell us how your journey into interior design started?
I started quite young (in high school) and had an interest in architecture and interior design since grade 8. My woodshop teacher knew this and encouraged me to go into finishing carpentry. While I was attending interior design school, I worked in that industry, and it evolved into a great foundation for my career.
2. Do you think there has been a defining moment in your career?
One of the biggest defining moments was deciding to move from corporate interior design to starting my own residential design business. I realized how important it was for me to build meaningful relationships with clients, something that didn’t really happen in the corporate world. That personal connection is what I value most in the residential space.
3. What do you think is the key to a successful interior design? And in your business in general?
Listening to your clients is essential. If you’re not fully understanding what they’re saying, ask questions to uncover what they’re trying to communicate. Design can feel like a foreign language for many people, and translating their vision often takes some decoding. Always ask more questions to get to the root of their inspiration.
4. How do you start your interior design projects? Do you usually start with a certain element of design or a keyword? And how do they develop?
We start our projects by asking questions – through conversation and a high-level questionnaire. This helps us understand how clients want their space to feel, as well as the finishes, fixtures, and styles they’re drawn to. From there, we develop an aesthetic concept and direction.
5. How would you define your signature style? Do you have “a mantra” that encapsulates your taste in design?
My signature style is always evolving. I love classic, timeless design but also have a deep appreciation for contemporary and modern influences. Our portfolio isn’t limited to one specific design style – it’s really about who we’re working with and how we can represent their personality in each individual project.
6. What are your 3 favorite pieces from the Philia Collection?
7. Could you tell us about one of the favorite projects that you worked on?
There are so many favorite projects for different reasons, but what makes a project special often comes down to the client. It’s not just about the design – it’s about the experience and the energy they bring. One of my favorites was our Campbell Valley Residence project, a large-scale interior and exterior design where we also handled the furnishings and art. We completed everything while the clients were out of town, and when they returned, the house was fully finished – beds made and all. It was such a rewarding moment.
8. If you could pick one interior design tip that is important to you, what would it be?
My personal tip is to stay away from anything too trendy. We prioritize timeless design and longevity over trends, it aligns with our values around not being wasteful. That said, have fun with trends if you can do so in a sustainable way.
9. What was the best advice you have received in your path?
A friend drilled into me early on the importance of having my accounting dialed in from the beginning. I’ve always taken that seriously, keeping great books, tracking profit, and staying organized financially.
10. What would be your advice to beginner interior designers?
My advice would be to gain experience working at a firm first, and take a business course if you can. Real-world experience goes a long way; being trained by someone who can mentor you helps you understand the fundamentals of running a business. I could have been more successful in my early years if I had done that.
11. What was one of the hardest learned lessons in your journey?
Understanding the dynamics of different personalities and communication styles is so important. You also need to develop a thick skin and not take things too personally – that’s a big part of growing in this industry.
12. Are there any books/podcasts you would like to recommend to our readers?
No, I don’t have time for that! I wish I did, but I’m a working mom running two businesses with two small children. Most of my drives are filled with business calls. If I do find a moment for a laugh, I’ll listen to the SmartLess podcast.
13. Finally, what are your upcoming projects? Anything you’d like to share or add to the interview?
We currently have an exciting installation project, a custom home full of color and personality, unlike anything we’ve done before.
Thank you so much Madeleine, for this lovely interview!