By Donna Heiderstadt
When she founded Thu Trinh Interiors in 2020—a Richardson, Texas–based design studio catering to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex—Thu Trinh blended a wealth of life experience in prior non-design careers, which strengthened her critical-thinking skills, with a true passion for creating beautiful spaces. Just five years later, her first entry in NKBA’s Design + Industry Awards, “Breckinridge Kitchen,” garnered a first-place finish at the awards gala at KBIS 2025 in the Small Kitchen category, as well the top prize for Best Overall Kitchen. Afterward, we asked Trinh about her design philosophy, her strategy for remodeling compact spaces, her ultimate dream commission, and more.
You worked in finance and healthcare before studying design and pursuing your true passion. What is it about interior design that made you want to pursue it?
I’ve always been drawn to the power of design to transform spaces and elevate daily life. While my background in finance and healthcare sharpened my analytical and problem-solving skills, my true passion lies in creating environments that are both beautiful and functional.
My undergraduate years at the University of Virginia—set within a UNESCO World Heritage site—had a profound influence on my design sensibilities. Being immersed in Jeffersonian architecture, with its harmonious proportions, classical columns, and timeless symmetry, deepened my appreciation for neoclassical design. That foundation continues to inform my work today, as I strive to blend historical elegance with modern livability.
Interior design allows me to merge creativity, history, and functionality—crafting homes that feel both refined and deeply personal. For me, great design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a feeling, a sense of place that resonates with the people who live there.
In your living rooms, you seem to love combining classic design elements with unexpected moments of whimsy— bold artwork or a zebra-skin rug, for instance. How does that translate into the kitchen, and what elements can make the kitchen both functional and chic?
Kitchens are the heart of the home, and because I see food as an art form, I believe the kitchen should be just as inspiring as any other creative space. Just as a beautifully plated dish balances color, texture, and composition, a well-designed kitchen should seamlessly blend aesthetics and function.
Every design choice—whether it’s a striking marble countertop, open shelving that highlights artisanal pieces, or layered lighting that enhances the ambiance—should celebrate both the artistry of cooking and the practicality of daily life. The key is ensuring that every beautiful element serves a purpose, from smart storage solutions and durable materials to a thoughtful layout that makes cooking and entertaining effortless.
Distinctive lighting is also one of your signatures. When it comes to kitchen lighting, what are some of your favorite solutions, both for functional task lighting and decorative flair?
Lighting is one of the most powerful ways to elevate a kitchen. I always layer lighting to create depth and warmth—recessed or under-cabinet lights for task lighting, pendants as a stylish focal point, and softer accent lighting to enhance the ambiance.
I love incorporating vintage-inspired fixtures or sculptural designs over an island or dining nook to make a statement, often in finishes like aged brass or textured glass for added warmth. Subtle details, such as LED strips inside glass cabinets, further enhance the space. The right lighting isn’t just about functionality—it shapes the mood, making the kitchen feel inviting, effortless, and elegant.
Your winning entry was in the Small Kitchen category. What are the biggest challenges when designing in a compact space, especially in an older home? How do you balance functionality and aesthetics?
Older homes often present unique challenges, from structural quirks to awkward layouts and limited storage. In a small kitchen, every inch matters, so I focus on maximizing vertical space with custom cabinetry, incorporating smart storage solutions like pull-out toe kick drawers, and using reflective surfaces to create a sense of openness.
I also prioritize high-quality, timeless materials that elevate the space, regardless of its size. Thoughtful design choices—like optimizing natural light, using a cohesive color palette, and integrating multifunctional elements—help ensure that even the smallest kitchen feels both stylish and highly functional.
If you could design a home for a client anywhere in the world, where would you love for it to be located, and what design elements would you most enjoy incorporating?
If I could design a home anywhere in the world, it would be an apartment in either Paris or Rome— two cities steeped in history, architecture, and classical influence. There’s something incredibly inspiring about their timeless elegance, from the grand Haussmannian apartments of Paris to the historic palazzos of Rome.
I’d incorporate luxurious materials like marble for the kitchen and bathrooms, intricate wrought-iron and brass railings for character and craftsmanship, and dramatic statement doors to create a sense of arrival in each space. High ceilings, tall windows, and carefully curated lighting would enhance the natural grandeur, while a mix of antique and contemporary furnishings would bring balance—making the space feel both sophisticated and livable. My goal would be to honor the classical beauty of these cities while creating a home that feels effortlessly modern and inviting.
