Disrupting the Design Dialogue
A Distinct Interior Design Studio in Bend, Oregon
The daughter of a contractor with a successful business in Anchorage, Alaska, House of Milo Founder Sarah Westhusing grew up surrounded by thoughtful design. Going on nightly walks with her father and peering into warmly lit homes shaped her appreciation for the connections that well-designed spaces build between people. She developed a critical eye for functional and beautiful spaces and an appreciation for craftsmanship early on.
Sarah went to the University of Colorado and pursued a career in product creation and global merchandising for over a decade, working for companies like Nike, KEEN and the hydration startup Hydroflask. However, she never lost her passion for architecture and interior design. She left the production world to start her full-service interior design studio in 2019.
Sarah Westhusing
Nature As North Star
Sarah lives in the mountain town of Bend in Central Oregon with her husband and daughter, Milo. The high desert, with its pale pastel hues and distinct forms, silvery green sagebrush, Dr. Seuss-like trees, and snow-capped mountain peaks, are endless sources of inspiration. Through House of Milo, Sarah is on a mission to make interior design accessible and inclusive and to improve her clients’ overall health and well-being through impactful design choices. Sarah believes that the quality of a space is a profound yet often overlooked source of happiness. Sarah loves natural stone, linens woven and wood grains with distinct character. Whether she’s designing a surf-inspired abode that might be at home in Byron Bay or a more rustic mountain lodge, Sarah believes in creating human-centered OR carefree spaces with relaxed angles that are comfortable above all. “Good design doesn’t have to feel formal or fancy. Build a home and a life you don’t need a vacation from.”
Emily Abbassian
Designer
Growing up in a family of architects and designers fueled Emily’s love of interiors. She has degrees in interior architecture and apparel design from Oregon State and a keen style eye for fashion and home interiors.When starting a project with a new client, Emily loves peering into their closet. This unconventional method gives her valuable insights into the client's color preferences, favored prints, and preferred silhouettes.
Emily finds joy and satisfaction in connecting with people. She understands every renovation and home design project is deeply personal and wants to use her expertise to help clients realize their dreams.