DEMOCRATISING DESIGN: Digital Technology in Interior Decoration we Interview Western Sensibility
Democratising Design: Meet Kathryn Sanders
“Kathryn Sanders, the founder of Western Sensibility, based in Montana, US - offers fascinating insights into this landscape. From crafting one-of-a-kind bespoke textiles to innovating sustainable printing techniques, her work embodies the marriage of “Art and Technology”. Her mission to create a world where design is not limited by traditional constraints that disrupts the Interior Industries status Quo – and in doing so moves to democratise design.” Debbie McKeegan | CEO | Texintel
What if the future of design was within everyone’s reach?
The interior decoration industry is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by the rise of digital technologies, innovative materials, and cutting-edge printing machinery. At the heart of this transformation lies the idea of democratising design. But what does this mean for interior designers, architects, print professionals, and textile manufacturers? And more importantly, how can these advancements break down barriers to creativity and accessibility while addressing key industry challenges?
Kathryn Sanders, the founder of Western Sensibility, based in Montana, US - offers fascinating insights into this landscape. From crafting one-of-a-kind bespoke textiles to innovating sustainable printing techniques, her work embodies the marriage of art and technology. Her mission to create a world where design is not limited by traditional constraints that disrupts the Interior Industries status Quo – and in doing so moves to democratise design. Listen to the full podcast here >>
Unlocking Design Potential Through Digital Printing: "The potential of digital printing technology is limitless," says Kathryn. Western Sensibility has found innovative ways to incorporate digital printing into workflow processes that are not only sustainable but also tailored to modern creative demands.
Digital technologies are now empowering designers and architects to translate their boldest ideas into reality. From acoustic panels to luxurious woven wallpapers and even concrete finishes on textile, digital printing opens up a world of possibilities.
Yet, the resistance from some parts of the industry remains. “Digital printing has been perceived as lacking the quality and ‘luxury finish’ that traditional methods provide”. Kathryn rebuffs this notion with advanced solutions that challenge this stereotype. For instance, her studio creates custom substrates like silk-inspired woven wall coverings and upholstery-grade fabrics, designed explicitly for both beauty and durability. These materials not only rival their traditional counterparts but often surpass them in performance and versatility.
Image Credit: Western Sensibility
Scaling Sustainable Digital Printing: One of the most significant challenges in the industry is combining sustainable practices with scalability. Traditional textile production is among the most resource-intensive processes. However, advancements in technologies like dye sublimation and pigment-based printing are pushing sustainability into the mainstream.
"We engineer our textiles specifically for these processes, applying stain and soil release finishes at the mill stage to ensure minimal waste and maximum performance," Kathryn explains. By reducing electricity consumption and water usage considerably compared to analog methods, her studio makes a compelling case for digital production as the future of sustainability.
Changing Perceptions of Quality: Convincing clients to view digital printing as equal (if not superior) in quality to traditional methods is another hurdle. “People still associate digitally printed materials with high-gloss, vinyl-like finishes that belong more in a retail setting than a fine interior space," Kathryn shares.
To combat this misconception, Western Sensibility has invested in intricate surface designs that utilise raw textures, non-optic white fabrics, and sophisticated textile constructions. The result? Materials that radiate luxury and warmth, adding depth and character to interiors like never before.
Educating Architects and Designers: The need for education plays a pivotal role in adopting digital techniques. Many interior designers and architects have limited awareness of what digital printing can achieve. Kathryn recalls countless conversations with designers who were unaware of a local printing option for smaller-scale, bespoke projects.
“Breaking down the barriers of knowledge is crucial,” Kathryn remarks. Hosting open studio sessions and collaborating directly with design professionals allows her team to show, not just tell, the immense capabilities of digital technology.
Seamless Integration into Existing Workflows: For designers and manufacturers alike, ease of integration into existing workflows is critical. Western Sensibility’s Innovation Lab was created precisely to address this. Equipped to handle everything from R&D to printing for hospitality and commercial projects, the Lab provides ready-to-market, customisable solutions that fit seamlessly into established practices.
Balancing Customisation with Cost-Effectiveness: Customisation is often synonymous with high costs. However, digital printing disrupts this dynamic. With no minimum order quantities and the capability to print on-demand, studios like Western Sensibility make premium customisation accessible to a much broader audience. This model not only supports creativity but also aligns with sustainable production practices by reducing waste.
The Intersection of Sustainability and Creativity
Sustainability is not a buzzword but a guiding principle for Kathryn’s work. Whether it’s replacing vinyl substrates with eco-friendly alternatives or educating clients on low-impact production methods, every project stems from a commitment to ethical design. Kathryn passionately advocates for transparency, noting, "We share knowledge, not just products. Through open collaborations, we help designers and businesses make informed, sustainable choices." For example, designing a concrete-textured velvet drapery for a Thai restaurant showed how two seemingly opposing elements could harmonise into a stunning piece of functional art. These innovations aren't just about aesthetics but often serve practical purposes like improving acoustics or lighting conditions in a space.
The Future of Digital Design in Interiors: Democratising design through digital technology doesn’t just mean making production methods more accessible. It means expanding the scope of what’s possible in interior decoration, allowing both large-scale enterprises and individual designers to bring their visions to life.
Western Sensibility offers a glimpse into this future, where creative professionals are no longer held back by minimum production quantities, material limitations, or excessive costs. Kathryn dreams of a boutique hotel project where every room is a unique, curated experience. With digital printing technology, this ambitious vision feels well within reach. Advancements in pigment technologies, textile innovation, and open access to R&D mean that the next era of digital design will blur the lines between art and application even further. For those ready to take the leap, the opportunities are boundless.
Explore the Possibilities: Are you ready to bring digital innovation into your design or manufacturing process? Learn more about how digital technologies can redefine your projects and support your sustainability goals.
📌 Tune into our full interview with Kathryn Sanders on the TexIntel Talks podcast here.
“Democratising Design is more than an idea. It’s the Future of Interiors. Don’t just watch it happen – be Part of the Transformation”. Debbie McKeegan | CEO | Texintel
SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS:
This conversation with Kathryn Sanders highlights the transformative power of digital printing and its ability to revolutionise interior design. Kathryn envisions a future where creativity knows no bounds, fuelled by innovation in pigments, textiles, and accessibility to R&D. Digital technologies are not only breaking barriers in design but are also driving sustainability in production processes.
By democratising design, these innovations empower creators to “Bridge the Gap between Artistry and Application”. Discover how these tools are reshaping industries and opening new opportunities for visionary projects.
In this engaging conversation, Debbie McKeegan speaks with Kathryn Sanders, founder of Western Sensibility, about her journey in the textile and digital printing industry.
They discuss the innovative services offered by Western Sensibility, including custom printing for Interior Decor onto various materials, the launch of their Innovation Lab, and their commitment to sustainability.
