Design That Feels Like Home — Because That’s What It’s For

I’m Deanna Michael, founder of Elm & Ember Interiors — and I design homes for busy families who want more beauty, more function, and way less decision fatigue.

This business started because I wanted more freedom.
And I wanted my home — and life — to actually work.

Elm & Ember Interiors was born from two things:
✨ A deep love of soulful, functional design
✨ And the very real chaos of raising a family while trying to create calm.

I started this business so I could show up fully for my kids — and help other families create homes that support the messy, beautiful, evolving reality of daily life.

Before I went out on my own, I worked for others, trying to follow someone else’s design vision — all while juggling sick days, childcare calls, and the constant guilt of “letting someone down.”

Now, I follow my own vision. And I help my clients do the same.

Interior Design with Soul, Strategy, and Real-Life Suppory

I believe that great design is more than aesthetic. It’s energetic. Emotional. Practical.
It’s how you feel in the morning when the light hits just right.
It’s how your kitchen flows during the after-school chaos.
It’s storage that works. Layouts that breathe. Materials that last.

My approach blends:

  • Deep listening to your lifestyle, routines, and story

  • Strategic design thinking (and a whole lot of SketchUp)

  • Artful sourcing, considered finishes, and calm execution

Known For:

  • Designs that feel calm, lived-in, and elevated

  • Seamless selections and clear documentation

  • Designing homes that grow with your family — not against it

“Deanna completely understood our life with kids — and turned that chaos into calm. We felt supported the whole way through.”
– Coastal New Build Client, Berry

Because Your Home Isn’t a Showroom — It’s the Setting for Your Life

Whether I’m designing a full home from scratch, curating your joinery details, or helping you finally land on that perfect white — I care about how your home feels.

And I care that you feel supported, confident, and excited every step of the way.

This is a design partnership.
And it’s rooted in understanding who you are — and how you want to live.

Let’s Bring Calm, Clarity & Soul to Your Home

Ready to explore how we can work together?