An Inspired Chat with Blake Sutton of North Scottsdale

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Blake Sutton. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Blake, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is a normal day like for you right now?
My mornings begin with my cherished ritual of reading. This personal time is followed by getting ready for the day, next I say bye to my wife and kids and I’m off to the office where I arrive by 9 a.m. I try to schedule meetings in the morning as much as possible to leave afternoons flexible for last minute appointments, or to follow up and follow through on emails.

When lunchtime rolls around, I like to capitalize on the opportunity to schedule work meetings with a member of my team, industry partners, or a client. I believe every meal during the workday presents an opportunity for connection and productivity. I prefer to get most of my meetings finished by the afternoon to ensure dedicated work time. Everyday I pride myself on my daily commitment to zeroing out my emails. I make a great effort to have every single email responded to or directed to the best point of contact to handle.

Although every work day is different, for the most part this is my routine whether I’m meeting with clients or visiting projects, I try to wrap up at the office by 5 p.m.

Then I head home for my favorite job of being a dad. At this time, I’m either lending a hand with dinner preparations or spending quality time with my wife and children, hearing about their day and spending time with them. Following dinner, I head to the gym around 7 p.m. at least three times per week. Before bed, I unwind by watching TV or reading, bringing my day to a close before rising and repeating the next day.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Blake Sutton, I am the President of Est Est Interior Design. Established in 1959, we are the oldest of the interior design companies in Scottsdale, Arizona. My route to where I am today is a bit unconventional, joining Est Est in 2010 I brought an extensive background and knowledge in construction. Over the course of a decade, I immersed myself in every facet of the company, learning from the best and contributing to our continued success. In 2020, I had the distinct honor of taking the helm as president, a role I embrace with unwavering enthusiasm.

I have a passion for operating a small business, and am proud of the wide range of styles we offer. Our portfolio showcases homes that effortlessly blend designs ranging from the warm earthiness of Southwest aesthetics to the sleek lines of contemporary style, and many more in between. We believe that every home should be a unique reflection of its inhabitants, a space that truly resonates with their lifestyle and aspirations.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I possess a strong sense of self. It doesn’t matter to me what others think of me, the perspectives that truly matter are those of my closest family and friends. I know myself behind closed doors. My core value, regardless of what’s popular, is primarily my integrity. I’ve chosen this career so I could be the family man that I want to be. Throughout my life, I’ve been offered many opportunities that I’ve passed on because at the end of the day, I want to be home with my wife and children. I never wanted to choose the route of traveling and missing out on memories with my family.

Beyond my commitment to family, mentorship plays a vital role in my life. I consciously allocate time to nurturing relationships with mentees, providing support and constructive feedback. Whether they are navigating personal challenges or professional milestones, I am dedicated to offering guidance and advice at every stage of their journey.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
When I was younger, a relative of mine overdosed and died, leaving behind his wife and children. Unfortunately his wife also struggled with addiction, so when she ultimately checked into rehab herself, their kids moved in with us where I observed the struggles and tribulations these young children suffered due to their parents actions. I promised myself after witnessing what no child should go through, to never do drugs and put myself or family in that situation. I also waited until I was 21 years old to have my first alcoholic drink and I am proud to say that I only drink socially in moderation.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
One real foundational shift we’ve noticed in design is the layout of homes. Throughout history, most American homes have been compartmentalized into divided rooms. Specifically dividing the dining and living areas. Today, in most modern homes, there’s usually a great room, combining the two rooms. This foundational shift is reflective of how people live. Society has shifted from table conversations to watching TV while you eat. The great room allows families the opportunity to still be together and connected while both enjoying the two.

Home offices are another example of a foundational shift. In the past, before modern technology advances, many left their work at the office. Now most homes feature home offices, allowing the opportunity for remote work. This has become even more popular since the pandemic lockdowns. Businesses have changed and we’re noticing it through design choices.

As for trends, like subway tiles, the color of the year, etc., those come and go, foundational shifts last for a significant period of time.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
When someone reaches the end of life, you’ll never hear them say how much more they wish they worked, or how much more money they wish they had saved. The most common regrets are that they wished they spent more time with their families.

The reality of modern life often dictates a demanding work ethic, but a crucial balance is paramount. Systematically, the rates at which people having children have dropped dramatically. This is a huge experience for people to miss out on.

Just the other day my daughter took me outside to show me the sunflowers she planted are now taller than her daddy, the smile on her face was priceless. No deal, successfully launched project, accolade or promotion has ever yielded a reward as rich, as authentic, or as deeply satisfying as that smile. These are the true treasures, the ones that provide lasting comfort and meaning in life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://estestinc.com
• Instagram: @estestinc
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-sutton-b690622b/
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/EstEstInc

Image Credits
Austin LaRue Photography