Meet Your Interior Alchemist
Not your traditional Interior Designer. I'm not just designing spaces. I'm creating experiences that shape how you live, work, and connect.
The Truth About Your Space
The design of spaces can profoundly influence our experiences, behaviors, and well-being. Yet design is often reduced to a checklist of pretty things to fit pretty layouts without considering how people interact with and experience their spaces. That’s not how I work.
I've been on both sides of the design equation—the frustrated client and the passionate designer. That journey has taught me that truly great spaces aren’t just beautiful or functional. I go beyond these basics to create a unique alchemy, one that adds richness to how you live, work, and connect with those who matter most.
Whether it’s your home, business, or other environment, I create spaces to serve you in ways you may have never imagined.
My Journey: From Brand Experience Designer to Interior Alchemist
Design is in my DNA. Raised in the Berkshires with a crafty mom and a handyman dad, I was surrounded by creativity and the art of making things work. By age 12, I was turning empty refrigerator boxes into cozy, girls-only retreats with leftover fabric, wallpaper, and carpet- my first DIY project.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve spent over 20 years transforming spaces—from entire new home constructions to remodeled baths and kitchens to custom vanities and entertainment centers. But my journey didn’t start with interior design alone.
My background as a brand strategist and experience designer taught me how to deeply understand customer needs and translate them into creative solutions and brand expressions. This intentional human-centered approach to design inspired my concept of Interior Alchemy—applying the art and sciences of interior design, brand storytelling, and experience-based innovation to create environments that serve people in unexpected ways.
Based in Newburyport, MA, I’m inspired by the coast, lakes, and mountains that surround me. Whether I’m skiing out west, enjoying a game of pickleball, or chasing new ideas, I bring energy and a sense of humor to everything I do. Most important, I’m a proud mom to Mikaela, Megan, and Shane, my greatest loves and biggest supporters..
The Magic Of Interior Alchemy
Interior Alchemy is my one-of-a-kind process that turns ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences.
At its core, it’s about creating environments that inspire, connect, and perform.
1. Inspire
Every space has the power to evoke emotions, spark creativity, boost mood, and encourage self-expression. I create environments that inspire and uplift.
2. Connect
Great spaces facilitate meaningful interactions—family dinners, collaborative work sessions, or customer experiences. I design with relationships in mind.
3. Perform
Beautiful spaces should also seamlessly support your routines, optimizing flow, organization, and usability. My designs prioritize productivity and livability, easing stress, and promoting well-being.
When Interior Alchemy works, you feel it—spaces flow effortlessly, your daily routines become seamless, and your spaces become canvases for life’s moments to naturally unfold.
These are strategically designed spaces for people who refuse to settle—where every detail drives you or your business forward.
What Sets Donna Rae Interiors Apart
“At Donna Rae Interiors, we create designs that hit the mark—no endless back-and-forth, just results.
We get there by digging deep to understand your needs, listening closely, and collaborating like pros—definitely no cookie cutter shortcuts. This upfront work saves you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle.
Plus, we share our expertise openly, empowering you to make bold, confident decisions at every step. Together, we’ll design a space you’ll love—and have some fun and a few laughs along the way! “
“Working with Donna has been a total game-changer. Her easygoing nature and sense of humor made her a pleasure to work with. She respected our time, handling much of the work behind the scenes while involving us at critical milestones. She’s transparent with budgets and lays out all the options with clear pros and cons, simplifying what could quickly feel overwhelming. A project we initially wanted to avoid turned into a fun, engaging experience that left us wanting more.”
Denise S.
My Approach to Style
While Interior Alchemy goes beyond aesthetics, style is a critical part of creating spaces that feel personal, flow naturally, and make lasting impressions.
My own design style is transitional, blending the laid-back elegance of endless summer with the grounding warmth of October air. I love open spaces filled with woven textures, natural materials, and complementary playful patterns that blur the line between indoors and outdoors.
But this isn’t about me—it’s about bringing your style, story, and personality to life. I’m a versatile designer with an ability to adapt to your vision and blend influences to create designs that feel authentic and never forced.
My designs focuses on how light, color, texture, and layout shape our interaction with spaces, ensuring they feel fresh, timeless, and emotionally resonant.
Whether it’s a cozy home, dynamic office, or engaging retail space, I create environments that reflect who you are and support how you live and work.
Ready to Experience Interior Alchemy?
Your ideal space isn't just a dream—it's waiting to be uncovered. Let's work together to create an environment that doesn't just meet your needs, but anticipates them. A space that feels uniquely, perfectly you.