Meet the TeaM
Susan Wintersteen
CEO / Principal /
Creative Director
Susan Wintersteen feels most at home designing, building, and giving because bringing beauty to life goes beyond textiles and tile.
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In 2002, I founded Savvy Interiors - a design directed remodeling and build firm set on redefining the way we approach interior design. Rather than focusing solely on aesthetic elements, we've made it our mission to prioritize the 'why' behind each design decision, crafting spaces that are not only visually stunning but also intelligently planned and functional. Our dedicated and organized team offers a comprehensive design method, seamlessly integrating every aspect of construction to bring even the most challenging projects from drab to fab. With our passion for innovative, well-thought-out designs, we've become adept at transforming homes into beautiful, tailor-made spaces that reflect the unique vision of their owners. In 2014, I expanded my commitment to making a positive impact through design by establishing Savvy Giving by Design (Savvygivingbydesign.org), a non-profit organization dedicated to redesigning spaces for children facing medical crisis. We believe that every child deserves a joyful, healing retreat during such tough times, and our team leverages our combined expertise in design and construction to create these special havens.
John Wintersteen
Chief Financial Officer
In 2009, as Savvy Interiors began to flourish, John transitioned from his software industry career and joined the team. Leveraging his managerial and business expertise, he now assists Susan in overseeing the company's operations.
Having spent years inland in San Diego raising their five daughters through Poway schools, John now relishes coastal life in Del Mar. As an avid sailor, he seizes every opportunity to admire the ocean from his backyard or while cruising along the 101 in his 1969 AMX.
John divides his time between San Diego and Lake Tahoe, enjoying boating during the summers. Now with their five grown-up daughters, Sunday evenings are cherished family times, gathering around the table for dinners.
Nicole harden
Intern
Nicole was born in Santa Rosa, CA and moved to San Diego in 2022 where she began her education in interior design at San Diego State University. She is spending her senior year interning at Savvy Interiors and loves getting hands on experience in real world projects. Her favorite thing about design is how a space can impact people’s lives, and is a strong advocate for intentional and curated design choices.
Nicole is a nature-loving artist and avid reader. Her life revolves around her passions: spending time outside, creating art, and immersing herself in captivating stories.
MICHA KEYSER
PROJECT COORDINATOR
Micha was born and raised in Escondido and now resides in Carlsbad. Micha attended San Diego State University to pursue Interior and Applied Design. She gained years of design and operations experience working in both Washington, D.C. and the Bay Area.
In her free time, she enjoys traveling, baking, dining experiences, exploring new coffee shops, and living near the ocean.
Ruben Ybanez
Project Manager
Raised against the picturesque backdrop of San Diego, Ruben comes to Savvy Interiors with over a decade of construction expertise. A dedicated family man, his commitment to leaving lasting legacies resonates with our mission. With deep industry roots, he adeptly guides projects, leveraging his extensive field background.
Beyond construction, he's a passionate explorer, nurturing a fondness for travel and experiences. A devoted attendee of SCORE races in Baja, he also relishes culinary journeys, discovering new dining and drinking spots during his treasured free time.
Steven Moody-Isaac
Operations Manager
Steven Moody-Isaac grew up in the avocado capital town of Fallbrook and now resides in the city of San Diego. He graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in interior design. Steven has gained experience working in the furniture and design industry over the last several years.
In his free time, Steven enjoys travel, dining experiences & beach days with his two dogs.
MICHELLE WINTERSTEEN
Marketing & Design
Michelle Wintersteen is a brand designer & creative director from San Diego. She graduated from University of San Diego with degrees in fine arts and art history. She assists in the brand management, social media, and marketing efforts for Savvy Interiors.
In her free time, she enjoys travel, cooking and spending time with her dog.