Interior designer Ellie Stein always knew she was meant to create. With deep roots in Birmingham and a background that includes stints in New York and San Francisco, Ellie brings a grounded yet cosmopolitan sensibility to her work at Stein Studio. Her designs are richly layered, shaped by tradition, and guided by a belief that interiors have the power to influence how we connect, live, and remember.
A Designer with Direction
Unlike many who discover design later in life, Ellie’s path was clear from the beginning. She interned for a designer in high school, pursued her degree at Auburn, and entered the world of hospitality design straight out of college. After gaining experience at a major New York firm, Ellie moved west while continuing to work on residential projects rooted in the South.
What began as a single side project in Alabama became the spark for launching her own studio. Now leading her firm independently, Ellie balances creative direction and client relationships with clarity and purpose, building Stein Studio around trust and timeless design.
A Style That Blends Legacy and Layering
Ellie’s work is rooted in storytelling. She draws on her Southern upbringing, layering history and sentiment into each space often through the thoughtful use of vintage pieces her clients already own. Rather than chasing trends, she finds meaning in nostalgia, personal history, and a refined sense of place.
She cites Frank Sinatra as an unexpected artistic influence, admiring the warmth and layered simplicity in his music as a metaphor for how she approaches interiors. Design, she says, is a silent architect of experience.
The Joy of Full-Service Design
Though Stein Studio offers consultations, Ellie is most passionate about full-service projects that allow her to shape the architectural bones of a space. She lights up when talking about millwork drawings and the importance of space planning, noting that these details are what elevate a project beyond just beautiful furniture.
Working in both hospitality and residential spaces, she thrives on variety. Whether selecting materials or navigating complex renovations, Ellie approaches each project with calm focus and a deep respect for her clients’ goals.
Trust, Burnout, and the Power of Presence
Ellie’s commitment to her clients runs deep. One of her proudest moments came when a client asked her to be their eyes and ears, a clear signal of the trust she works hard to earn. Like many business owners, she also admits to creative burnout, especially when dealing with construction slowdowns or miscommunications. But with time blocking, nature walks, and the occasional quiet late-night work session, she’s learned how to protect her energy and stay grounded.
Looking Ahead
Though currently in transition somewhere between West Coast and East Coast, Ellie remains closely tied to her Birmingham roots. She returns often to maintain her presence and relationships in the region while exploring growth in new markets.
No matter where she lives or works, Ellie’s mission stays the same. She wants to create spaces that feel both personal and elevated. Because for her, design is not just about aesthetics. It is about how people live and the memories they carry forward.
