Sarah Thompson is the founder and principal designer of Stella James Design, a full-service residential interior design studio based in Raleigh, North Carolina.

A North Carolina native, Sarah earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and Art from Meredith College before spending more than a decade designing homes and commercial spaces. Today, she works with clients on new construction, renovations, and full-home furnishing projects, creating timeless homes that feel personal and thoughtfully tailored to the people who live in them.

Sarah believes the most beautiful homes aren't the ones that follow trends—they're the ones that tell a story. Her designs are layered with character, filled with meaningful pieces, and thoughtfully tailored to each client's lifestyle. Whether incorporating antiques passed down through generations or sourcing something unexpected, she believes every home should feel collected over time rather than decorated all at once.

Drawn to natural stone, rich textiles, architectural details, and color used with intention, Sarah is known for balancing classic design with a fresh perspective. Her philosophy is simple: good design should feel inviting, comfortable, and effortless—a home that welcomes muddy paws, dinner parties, quiet mornings, and everyday life just as beautifully as life's biggest celebrations.

When she's not designing, Sarah enjoys traveling for inspiration, exploring antique shops and flea markets, cheering on the Carolina Hurricanes, and spending time with Stella James, her rescue pup and the studio's namesake.

Through Stella James Design, Sarah creates homes that feel collected, timeless, and deeply personal—spaces that reflect the lives, stories, and people who call them home.

Whether you're building a new home, renovating a beloved one, or simply looking to create a space that feels more like you, Sarah would love to help create a home you'll love for years to come.