WHO WE ARE

Sawa Design Studio LLC is a full service design studio with locations in Sarasota, Florida and Nairobi, Kenya, devoted to providing innovative design solutions for residential, commercial and hospitality projects. The Sawa Design team takes a collective approach to exploring design concepts and developing creative solutions for our clients’ environments. Our team is committed to working closely with the client on each project, from initial concept to final construction, to ensure that each project milestone is a definitive celebration of our client’s vision for their home, workspace, or brand identity. Our broad spectrum of industry specialties includes interior design, lighting design, industrial design, architectural integration, styling, custom furniture, furniture procurement, and creative brand solutions.

Sawa Design Studio operates on the principle that beauty and function are the cornerstones of great design.  Beyond that, our philosophy on design is simple: People should enjoy it. We strive to create spaces that transcend the boundaries of tradition, style and taste; to give life to environments that celebrate form, function, and above all, comfort. We believe that great design speaks a universal language and that the flow and impact of a living and working environment is influential and ubiquitous. As such, our work is rooted in quality custom design and the timeless aesthetic of functional refinement.

THE TEAM

SAWA Design Studio approaches each project with the innate belief that smart design translates to smart practices. Our firm sets its multifaceted design acumen to the task of developing custom interior environments that are distinctly suited to the lifestyles of the individuals who inhabit them.

 We also believe that collaboration lies at the heart of great creations. Our team works with industry professionals who share our passions and poetics, as well as our dedication to clients’ visions and understanding of the site and scale of their projects, to integrate the best design solutions.

 “The fundamental goal of a successful project is to provide something innovative and inspiring that captivates and astonishes the senses, and is enduring in its function and aesthetic. Our design philosophy is sophisticated in overall form and refined in the intimate details.”

 At the core of Sawa Design Studio is a small team of creative, dedicated, local and international design professionals. We draw from a deep well of industry knowledge and a shared passion for the beauty of form, function, and innovation. Our passion for great design amplifies the commitment and enthusiasm we bring to each project we undertake. . 

THE PEOPLE

As the founder and principal interior designer of Sawa Design Studio, Punit Patel approaches every project with a deep sensitivity to the human experience—designing not just for the eye, but for all five senses. His work is defined by the belief that a well-designed space should evoke feeling, support daily rituals, and reflect the essence of those who live in it. Every line, texture, and light source is selected with intention, building environments that are as thoughtful as they are beautiful.

Raised in Nairobi, Kenya, Punit developed mechanical skills alongside his father, an aeronautical engineer. A pivotal introduction to design ignited his passion for design, leading him to Ringling College of Art & Design. Arriving in 1999 with vision and determination, he earned top university honors and secured coveted internships, laying the foundation for his future practice.

In 2011, after years of refining his craft, Punit founded Sawa Design Studio to create a more integrated, collaborative approach to design. From first conversations to final finishes, he partners closely with clients—many of whom are creating legacy homes or dream retreats—to guide their vision into reality.

Punit’s mission goes beyond aesthetics; he aims to change the way people live by designing spaces that encourage connection, comfort, and wellbeing. He believes that thoughtful design can transform daily routines and enrich lives by fostering environments that inspire and nurture.

Bringing a global perspective to his work, Punit blends his East African roots with the natural elegance of Florida’s Gulf Coast. He draws daily inspiration from people, nature, and quiet moments of reflection—infusing every project with a sense of place, purpose, and poetry.

Sarah King

Project Manager

Born and raised in Florida, Sarah King’s love for design began early, shaped by a lifelong fascination with art, nature, and the way people connect with their surroundings. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from the Art Institute of Tampa, where her interest in interior design took root and grew into a true calling.

As a Project Manager at Sawa Design Studio, Sarah brings a rare blend of intuition and precision to her work. With a thoughtful, hands-on approach, she guides each project from concept to completion—ensuring every detail is aligned with the client’s needs, lifestyle, and vision. Her ability to listen deeply and respond with purpose-driven solutions helps turn ideas into spaces that are not only functional, but meaningful.

Sarah believes that great design mirrors the natural world—harmonious, balanced, and ever-evolving. She’s passionate about weaving organic elements and sustainable materials into her projects, creating interiors that feel both grounded and inspired.

Outside the studio, Sarah finds creativity in nature. Whether hiking, paddle boarding, or kayaking, she draws energy from the outdoors and carries that spirit of connection into every project. Time with her husband, daughter, and extended family is central to her life—and that same warmth and sense of belonging is reflected in the spaces she helps create.

Born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Kyle Mast’s appreciation for craftsmanship began early, shaped by his hands-on experience in construction and homebuilding. That foundation naturally evolved into a passion for architecture and interior design—leading him to Florida, where he earned his degree from Florida Atlantic University.

Kyle brings a unique blend of practical knowledge and creative vision to his work at Sawa Design Studio. With a deep understanding of how spaces are built and how they’re lived in, he approaches every project with a balance of technical precision and thoughtful design.

What sets Kyle apart is his ability to truly listen. He takes time to understand each client’s lifestyle, values, and goals—transforming those insights into spaces that feel personal, purposeful, and grounded. His designs are not just about aesthetics, but about enhancing the way people experience home.

A passionate outdoorsman, Kyle is also mindful of nature’s role in design. He’s committed to integrating natural materials and sustainable practices wherever possible, creating interiors that are both beautiful and deeply connected to their surroundings.

Born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Lilly always felt a strong connection to the community she now calls home once again. After attending Auburn University, she gained valuable experience in accounting and management while living in St. Louis, Missouri—working for a large HVAC company where she developed a strong foundation in business operations.

With a family background rooted in real estate, her career naturally transitioned into property management and residential remodeling. This shift aligned with both her professional skill set and her passion for homes—not just as structures, but as meaningful spaces for living.

At Sawa Design Studio, she plays a vital role behind the scenes—coordinating purchasing, managing subcontractors, and supporting the team in day-to-day operations. Her organizational skills and problem-solving mindset help ensure each project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Deeply invested in her hometown, she’s active in the Sarasota community—serving on the board at her children’s school and volunteering her time regularly. When she’s not working, she enjoys fishing, golfing, and spending time with her husband, two children, and close friends.

Born in Detroit, Michigan and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Kaylex Turner discovered an early passion for numbers and detail—traits that naturally led her to the field of accounting. She earned her degree from Georgia Gwinnett College, where she developed the analytical and organizational skills that now anchor her approach to financial management.

As Accounting Manager at Sawa Design Studio, Kaylex plays a vital role in supporting the studio’s creative work through precision, structure, and strategy. She has been instrumental in bringing the books into order, assisting staff with payroll needs, and implementing new operational processes that allow the design team to focus fully on their craft. Her thoughtful contributions continue to strengthen the studio’s foundation and streamline day-to-day operations.

What distinguishes Kaylex is her calm, steady leadership—and the positivity she brings to the workplace. Known for her warm attitude and collaborative spirit, she’s a pleasure to work alongside, consistently fostering a culture of support and professionalism.

Outside of work, Kaylex embraces slow, intentional living. She enjoys crocheting, has recently taken up 5K training, and finds joy in quiet moments shared with her husband and their spirited 15-year-old Yorkie. For Kaylex, balance isn’t just a goal—it’s a way of life.

TESTIMONIALS

"Punit of Sawa Design studio was a great asset to my project. He thought of every detail and made me aware of things that I would otherwise not have thought about. I knew what I wanted to achieve for a look, but, Punit was able to bring it to life. His ability to blend function, beauty in design, and energy efficiency saved me both time and money. He helped me with lighting, colour, tile and marble, pool details, exterior finishes, closet design, and hardware. This is not a complete list I am sure. I highly recommend Sawa Design Studio."

• SHARON M. - CLIENT

"Punit Patel was instrumental in taking our home from a plan on paper to a well thought out reality. His attention to detail is amazing. He brought the project to the next level of functional beauty. He is easy to communicate with and end results are loved by all."

 • LORI F. - CLIENT

"I had the pleasure to work with Sawa Design studios on a remodel for commercial space. The design team was more than patient enough with me and my untrained sense of design, the designer Punit Patel was able to translate my random and sometimes bad ideas into a beautiful building. Punit and his team focused not only on the esthetic design but wanted a functional layout with an inside out approach that was not suggested by two other firms I considered for the project. Will definitely work with on my next venture."  

• MONCEF B. - CLIENT

"I have utilized the services of SAWA as the broker/owner of a real estate company that has a commercial, residential and property management division. I have referred them business and have worked closely with them on many of my client’s projects and they are absolutely amazing. The designs are clean, innovative but practical and the designer always has a creative solution to save my client money. I highly recommend their services."  • 

ANGELIA Y. - CLIENT

"Sawa Design Studio & Punit Patel offer a fantastic combination of design, conceptual direction and fresh ideas with first-class service and peerless professionalism. We have relied heavily on their expertise and interaction with both client and vendors. There will certainly be a next time, and we look forward to it."

AMPERSAND CONSTRUCTION - CONTRACTOR

"Punit's design ideas were fresh and he was very professional in his approach to the task. He was always accessible and easy to work with as construction issues presented themselves making the Rivo project a pleasure to complete."  

• DL PORTER - CONTRACTOR

"I am a general contractor who worked with Sawa Design Studio. They provided the design, plans and interior finish selection for the entire project. We renovated a four unit office into a single 6000 square feet office. Which gave us many issues but with the professional and timely decisions made by Sawa Design we were able to complete the project on time and within the owner's budget. I look forward to working with Sawa Design in the future."  • 

SARASOTA CONSTRUCTION  - CONTRACTOR

"Working with Punit Patel of SAWA infuses excitement and enthusiasm into everyone at our office. When we embark on a project together, we know that it will include cutting edge thinking, creativity and careful thought processing toward a collaborative end result."  

• MICHAEL GILKEY. - LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

"Sawa Design Studio is an excellent interior design studio and always has great ideas for homes with various styles and feelings. They use impeccable lighting, gorgeous furniture, and the perfect use of detail for each space they're decorating. Anytime anyone needs help with a remodel or a new construction site, I always refer them to Sawa Design Studio because I know they have a great grasp and great taste for what they do. I trust them will all of my clients!"  

• NATE R. - REAL ESTATE AGENT

INFORMATION

1003 North Orange, Sarasota, Unit A-2, FL 34236