Brenda Sorensen, Founder and Design Director, Aspect Interiors

Have you ever picked up a book and felt your world shift? For Brenda Sorensen, this was a reality. Growing up in a creative household, surrounded by her father’s exquisite Waterford Crystal creations and her mother’s passion for interior design, Brenda developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of the built environment.

However, it was the captivating worlds of Danielle Steel’s novels that truly ignited her imagination and fuelled her ambition. The intricate details and inspiring stories of resilience resonated deeply with Brenda, fostering a desire to create spaces that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also emotionally evocative. Inspired by the characters she encountered in these novels, Brenda envisioned a future where she could use her creativity to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones. “I learned practical skills, like wallpapering and laying flooring, alongside my mother. At 17, I designed a coffee table with a tray that was manufactured in-house and sold, though I didn’t fully appreciate the significance of my achievement at the time,” she recalls.

Today, with over 20 years of experience in the Furniture and Interiors sector, Brenda leads a creative team as the Design Director at Aspect Interiors, a renowned interior design and architecture firm based in Tramore, County Waterford. Aspect Interiors is dedicated to crafting beautifully designed interiors combining functionality and elegance.

Rediscovering a Passion for Design

Brenda Sorensen’s path to becoming a successful design director was anything but straightforward. Despite her early creative inclinations, Brenda initially pursued a more conventional route and enrolled in a computing course in 1994, her passion for design persisted. When she became pregnant, she left the program, realizing that IT was not where her heart lay. Family responsibilities temporarily put her design dreams on hold.

Determined to follow her true calling, Brenda rekindled her interest in design in 1999 by enrolling at Limperts Academy of Design. Her hard work and dedication earned her a distinction, finishing first in Ireland, and her work was proudly showcased at The National Art Gallery.

In 2006, Brenda’s design career took off with a significant hotel project that, despite challenges, provided invaluable experience and lessons, toughening her in a male-dominated environment. She later joined her family’s furniture store. After its closure due to the recession, she transitioned to a leading furniture store as a Designer and Store Stylist, eventually being promoted to Buying Manager. In this role, she not only honed her design skills but also gained valuable experience that would shape her future career.

By 2016, Brenda founded Aspect Interiors to meet the growing demand for her design services. The firm quickly gained recognition with projects such as Waterford Castle and the 360 Cookhouse restaurant. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 presented significant challenges. Brenda and her husband were among the first in Ireland to contract the virus, both of them being hospitalized, which placed an immense strain on their family. While battling a critical illness that nearly claimed her life, Brenda showed extraordinary determination by pushing her business forward during her long recovery. “It was a difficult and exhausting period, but my commitment to my company and clients never wavered,” she reflects. The resilience she demonstrated allowed her company to continue growing during this challenging time, eventually winning a local business award.

Empowering Leadership and Inspirational Interiors

Brenda’s leadership at Aspect Interiors is characterized by her commitment to servant leadership, focusing on empowering her team and fostering a collaborative environment. Her resilience and adaptability have guided the company through various challenges, including the pandemic.

Aspect Interiors stands out for its innovative design approaches. Brenda encourages her team to explore new materials and techniques and leverages digital tools like 3D modelling and virtual reality for enhanced client experiences. The firm’s flexibility in catering to diverse client needs and its emphasis on continuous learning contributes to its industry leadership. This commitment to exploration and creativity allows each project to be meticulously tailored to reflect clients’ personalities and lifestyles, ensuring functionality and emotional resonance.

“Empathy is a cornerstone of my approach, particularly in supporting women in the construction industry,” Brenda shares. “Through mentorship initiatives and my dissertation on gender disparities, I empower female interior design students by providing guidance and placement opportunities, fostering a strong sense of community.” Her leadership ensures that her commitment to nurturing talent extends beyond her team, contributing to a broader culture of empowerment and innovation across the industry.

Balancing Life’s Demands

Balancing the demands of running a successful interior design company while nurturing a family requires careful orchestration. Brenda prioritizes mental health and self-care, setting aside dedicated family time with her husband, four children, and grandchild, and pursuing hobbies to rejuvenate her spirit. This approach not only models a healthy lifestyle for her family but also reinforces that success encompasses nurturing relationships and personal wellness.

A Vision for Aspect Interiors

Brenda envisions continued growth for Aspect Interiors, evolving from a solo venture into a thriving company. Pursuing a Master of Arts in Professional Design Practice highlights her commitment to lifelong learning and the company’s future success. The future of interior design, driven by sustainability and technology, presents exciting opportunities. Brenda is dedicated to leading this evolution with notable projects like the multimillion-euro Brandon Hotel and Spa. Her focus includes hiring more talented professionals and nurturing new talent to ensure Aspect Interiors remains at the forefront of innovative design.

By empowering emerging designers, Brenda is cultivating a new generation ready to meet industry demands. Recognition from awards like this year’s Women in Construction – Business Owner of the Year, reinforces Aspect Interiors’ reputation as a leader in the market. With a strong team and a proven track record, Aspect Interiors is set to thrive in the evolving landscape of interior design.

Brenda’s Design Legacy

Brenda’s legacy is marked by her dedication to design, and a commitment to continuous learning. Brenda is passionate about advocating for women in the construction industry, proving that they are a valuable asset. She draws inspiration from the talented team she has built at Aspect Interiors, collaborating with skilled employees and contractors who bring diverse perspectives to every project.

For aspiring entrepreneurs and women looking to make their mark in the interior design industry, she advises embracing lifelong learning, seeking mentorship, and surrounding oneself with a supportive network. She encourages aspiring designers to embrace high-profile projects, as these opportunities can significantly enhance their brand and reputation. Finally, Brenda emphasizes the importance of nurturing talent and empowering others, contributing to a stronger industry.

“With dedication, creativity, and a willingness to adapt, aspiring designers can achieve significant milestones and inspire future generations in the field,” concludes Brenda.