Connector | Facilitator | Storyteller
I've spent over fifteen years in the design and architecture world, and what I care about hasn't changed: getting people around the same table. I founded Il Salotto and #DesignPopUp because Glasgow's design community needed a living room, not another showroom — somewhere to talk, eat, and actually connect. That instinct comes from home: I'm Italian-Scottish, and I grew up believing a good table solves most problems.
I host Design Lives Here, a podcast of long, honest conversations with the architects, designers and makers shaping the places we live in. Before design, I was a journalist and TV host, which is where I learned to ask the right question and then get out of the way of a good story.
I moderate panels, speak at industry events, and work with brands who want a real foothold in this industry rather than another logo on a wall. I'd rather build one relationship that lasts than chase a thousand impressions — that's how Il Salotto runs, and it's how I work too.
If you want someone who knows this industry from the inside and can help you tell your story in it, or bring the right people to your table, I'd love to hear from you.
What do I offer Brands
Consultancy Services
Years of relationships across the specification world, put to work for you
Brand Partnership
an ongoing, visible presence with the people who actually specify and buy
Content and Storytelling
articles and long-form writing that sound like a person, not a press release
Podcast production
from first conversation to finished episode, guest strategy included
Event Production and Moderation
panels and events people actually want to stay for
What People Say...
Dionne Sim
"Newton was lucky enough to have Sara speak for us on a couple of occasions now.
Sara’s speeches were informative which is what we asked for- but on top of this we found them to be powerful and inspiring. Our staff commented on how enjoyable her talks were and in particular how interesting Sara’s stories are.
The engagement between Sara and the audience is great. Sara is funny, but she isn’t afraid to be vulnerable and the impact of that has a lasting effect."
Andy Pennington
"I started working with Sara after being introduced through mutual friends and visiting one of her #DesignPopUp events. In just a couple of months, she has been a tremendous help. Her incredible network from Edinburgh to Manchester has already helped us build connections in our Manchester studio and opened exciting new conversations in Scotland.
It’s clear that Sara is very highly thought of within design circles and a hugely influential person with serious connections across the UK A&D market."
Kay Quillan
"For our Glasgow office’s tenth anniversary party we wanted an informal interview with our directors, to tell the story of our ten-year history.
Sara led the conversational interview focused on personal insights, reflections and visions for the future.With her extensive knowledge of the design industry and podcast and event hosting experience, Sara was the perfect interviewer.
Warm, witty and engaging, she kept the discussion relaxed and fun whilst drawing out some great anecdotes and reminiscences. I can’t think of anyone better suited to the role.."
MY STORIES
My Portfolio
Here you’ll find a selection of my work. Explore my projects to learn more about what I do.
