Meet Silvia Schaeffer | Architect & Interior Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Silvia Schaeffer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Silvia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As a trained architect, when I moved to the U.S., I quickly noticed that architecture and design were quite different from what I had learned and practiced in Brazil. This contrast inspired me to bring elements of my own culture and experiences from my travels into the design space here. I saw a unique opportunity to merge these influences and realized there was a market for it, both among Americans and international clients. This motivated me to start my own business. Today, I focus on interior design, blending global perspectives with local tastes.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is focused on creating personalized, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces, whether it’s residential or commercial. What sets us apart is the unique blend of influences I bring from my Brazilian roots, international travels, and experiences living in different cultures. I believe this diversity allows me to offer fresh and creative design solutions that resonate with a wide range of clients, from Americans to international clients who appreciate a global perspective.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the relationships I’ve built with my clients. Many of them come back for multiple projects, and word-of-mouth referrals have been a huge part of my business growth. This loyalty is a testament to the trust my clients place in me, and that’s something I’m deeply grateful for. I’m also excited about the opportunities I’ve had to work on a wide variety of projects, from full homes to boutique commercial spaces like gyms and bookstores, where I can be both creative and strategic.

Getting to where I am today has certainly not been easy. When I first moved to the U.S., I had to adjust to the different styles and standards of design here compared to what I had learned in Brazil. The language barrier was also a challenge initially. But I embraced these challenges as learning opportunities and worked hard to understand the market while also staying true to my design philosophy. My first big project—a house redesign for a Brazilian friend—gave me the confidence I needed to pursue more opportunities and grow the business.

Along the way, I’ve learned some important lessons. One is that perseverance is key. Building a business takes time, and there are no shortcuts. You need to be patient, adaptable, and always willing to learn. Another lesson is that relationships matter. A successful business isn’t just about delivering great work; it’s about connecting with people, understanding their needs, and building trust.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that I’m passionate about creating spaces that enhance people’s lives. My designs aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about making homes and commercial spaces functional, warm, and reflective of the client’s personality.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Detroit area has such a vibrant mix of culture, food, and hidden gems! If you’re into exploring different culinary scenes and charming neighborhoods, it’s the perfect place to be. One of my favorite spots is Birmingham downtown—it’s such a charming area with an upscale vibe and a great variety of shops and restaurants. You can stroll through the streets, pop into boutique stores, and then grab a bite at Townhouse, where they serve everything from a casual brunch to amazing cocktails in the evening. The Casa Pernoi is another great option for dinner.

In Detroit itself, the options are endless. If you’re a fan of art and architecture, Selden Standard near Midtown is the place to go for farm-to-table dining with a modern flair. For a fancier night out, The Apparatus Room inside the Foundation Hotel offers a sophisticated atmosphere with an inventive menu. For a truly flavorful experience SheWolf is incredible.

You can’t miss the Eastern Market area either, especially on a Saturday. It’s a local treasure, filled with vendors, shops, and murals that give it a vibrant, artistic energy. While you’re there, stop by Supino Pizzeria for some of the best pizza around, and check out Wright & Company for shared plates and drinks in a stylish setting.

If you want to venture a bit out of the city, Ann Arbor is another favorite day trip of mine, offering more great restaurants like Zingerman’s Deli and beautiful spots like the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Whether it’s for shopping, food, or just a laid-back afternoon, the Detroit area is full of surprises!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve been fortunate to have many people support me along the way, but I’d like to dedicate a special shoutout to my family and friends, especially those who believed in me from the very beginning. Moving to the U.S. and starting my own business wasn’t easy, but their encouragement helped me stay strong and focused. I also want to recognize my first clients, who trusted me with their homes and allowed me to express my creativity freely. Additionally, my Brazilian roots and the values instilled by my culture have played a huge role in shaping my approach to design.

Website: https://www.silviaschaefferdesign.com

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Image Credits
Photographer: Emin Kadi
Graphic Production: Fabiola Masserant
Studio: Elma Haus
Hair: Alex & Emilio Salon