Design that grounds, elevates, and reflects who you are
Our Story
Design With Refinement began with one simple belief: your home should support you, not stress you out.
Founded by Refinement Wagner, Design With Refinement grew out of a childhood spent on a commune in Washington State, where nothing was wasted and everything was chosen with purpose. That philosophy still guides every project we take on. We design spaces built to be lived in, not just looked at.
You'll see it in the American-made furniture we source, the one-of-a-kind vintage pieces we track down, and the local Portland makers we commission for pieces that exist nowhere else. Sustainability isn't something we added to our practice. It's always been the foundation of it.
As Portland interior designers, problem-solvers and calm guides in the chaos, we help clients create spaces that are not only beautiful but beautifully livable. Whether you're relocating, refreshing a family home, or just tired of feeling off in your space, we bring a curated eye, a clear process, and a sourcing philosophy built on more than what's available online.
And you're never navigating it alone. Our team of designers, drafters and trusted tradespeople guides every decision and handles every detail with care, from start to finish.
Our approach.
Every space we design is grounded in these values:
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We help you move from inspiration overload to a clear, actionable plan. Every decision has a purpose, and we guide you through it with confidence and ease.
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A beautiful home starts with how it works. Layouts, furnishings, and finishes are chosen to support the way you actually live day to day.
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No two projects—or people—are the same. Your home should tell your story, not ours. We take the time to understand your lifestyle, values, and aesthetic to make every detail feel like you.
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Design should never feel out of reach. We meet clients where they are, tailoring each plan to fit their style, needs, and budget.
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Sustainability isn't a trend at Design With Refinement - it's built into every sourcing decision, from estate sale finds to American-made furniture to work by local Portland makers.
A passion for furnishings.
Trade sourcing. Curated vintage finds. Local Portland makers. Built for years, not seasons. Read more about our furnishings philosophy here.
Designed for People LIke You
You don’t have to be a design expert. You just have to know you want something better.
At Design With Refinement, we partner with people and small businesses who value comfort, clarity, and connection in the spaces they use every day. You’re not looking for a showpiece, you’re looking for spaces that make life (and work) feel easier, calmer, and more beautiful.
We love working with:
Busy professionals who want a calm, functional home that supports focus, relaxation, and balance after long days.
Empty nesters ready to reinvest in the home they’ve loved for years—refreshing their space to reflect this new season of life.
DIY-savvy homeowners who have plenty of inspiration but want a cohesive, professional plan to pull it all together.
Families in transition—upsizing, downsizing, or reimagining how their home supports their lifestyle.
Small business owners and community spaces looking to elevate the experience of their clients and team through thoughtful, welcoming design.
If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place.
We design for real life, where beauty meets function, and every choice feels intentional.
Meet the Team
Great design is a collaboration. Led by founder Refinement Wagner, our team brings decades of experience, a shared love of thoughtful design, and genuine care for every home we touch.
Rylie Benjamin, Marketing + Administrative Assistant
Rylie keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes and shares our work with the world.
Lynn Conti, Senior Designer.
Amy Hayes, Senior Designer.
A former math teacher with a storyteller's eye, Amy leads much of our kitchen, bath and remodel selections work.Part of Design With Refinement since day one, Lynn brings nearly four decades of design experience and a background in high-end custom furnishings.
Meet the Founder
Hi, I'm Refinement, yes, it's my real name, and I founded Design With Refinement because I believe your home should be as intentional as the life you're living in it.
My background in project management means I bring calm structure to the creative process. My upbringing on a commune in Washington State with nine of us, (six brothers and my parents) no electricity in a yurt, means I've never approached sourcing, materials, or design without thinking about what lasts.
Outside of design, I'm active with the Interior Design Society's Portland chapter and an active member of the Multnomah Athletic Club. I served on the Pacific Northwest Leadership Council for Children's Cancer Association (JoyRx) including the new design of the Caring Cabin meditation pavilion on the Oregon Coast. I've had the honor of serving as Chair of the Ambassador Board for CASA for Children, and I lead my youngest daughter's Girl Scouts troop.
When I'm not designing, you'll find me at an estate sale, scanning national auctions for one-of-a-kind pieces, or on a hike with my puppy and youngest daughter.
