Susan Carson

Susan Carson is an award-winning interior designer holding a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art, Art History, and Art Education from Salem College. Susan’s career began with design work for medical offices and evolved into residences/homes for the medical community. She founded Susan Carson Associates, Inc. in 1985, creating Design Authentic as one of its divisions in 2012. Susan is the former President of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Carolinas Chapter and served on the ASID National Chapter Support Team for two years as Chair-elect and Chair. 

Outside the office, Susan is a proud pet mom of two rescue sisters, Diddy and Mamie, and can't live without tea and music. She loves to travel and is always looking forward to her next adventure (though she often returns to Santa Fe and Taos, both of which always inspire her). Susan picks up a new piece of jewelry wherever she goes as a reminder of her travels and how small touches can come together to tell a complete story. 

A long-time advocate in her field, Susan continues to help other designers have their practice rights recognized. She has played an integral role in passing laws that protect the rights of North Carolina designers, including a Bill to prohibit tax on interior design services and another to allow for the registration of interior designers and modify the North Carolina Board of Architecture. She currently is serving on an Advocacy Support Team for 5 Western States.


PRINCIPAL & LEAD DESIGNER

Awards

  • Best Boutique Interior Design Firm - North Carolina. 2023 Home and Garden Awards from Build Magazine

  • 1st place winner 2022: ASID Carolinas Excellence in Design Award in Residence Under 3,500 sqft, Vacation/Secondary, Singular Space, Furniture or Special Cabinetry

  • 1st place winner 2020: ASID Carolinas Excellence in Design Award in Singular Space

  • 2nd place winner 2022: ASID Carolinas Excellence in Design Award in Kitchen

  • Carolina’s Chapter Award: Two-time winner (2008 and 2018) of the prestigious ASID Carolinas Chapter Award, which recognizes and celebrates individuals, industry partners, and institutions who have made significant contributions to the Carolinas Chapter and interior design industry.