Conversations with Dawn Wilkinson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawn Wilkinson.

Hi Dawn, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey into interior design began with a deep appreciation for how spaces shape our lives—how they can comfort, inspire, and reflect who we are. I founded Six Walls Interior Design in 2004 with a simple but powerful mission: to make great design approachable, collaborative, and deeply personal.
In 2009, I had the honor of granting my first Make-A-Wish room makeover, and it left a lasting impression on me. That experience opened my eyes to the profound healing power of design—how a thoughtfully created space can offer hope, comfort, and a sense of control during life’s most difficult moments. Since then, our firm has been involved in numerous design-driven projects that support a healthier, more compassionate community.
From custom homes to large-scale residential developments, we’ve grown into a multi-location firm with roots in Seattle and Denver—and now expanding to the Southeast with a lead designer relocating to Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Alongside our client work, I also serve as President of Savvy Giving by Design Denver, where we create healing spaces for children facing medical crises. It’s some of the most rewarding work I’ve ever done, and a reminder that design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about impact.
Today, I’m proud to lead a team of passionate, talented designers who share a commitment to excellence and heart. Whether we’re collaborating with developers on multi-unit properties or transforming a child’s room into a sanctuary, our goal is the same: to create spaces that matter.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Taking on the role of President of Savvy Giving by Design Denver in August 2024 marked my first time leading a nonprofit organization. It’s been both a rewarding and humbling experience. As with any leadership transition, we’ve faced some growing pains—especially as several legacy members stepped down to make space for fresh perspectives and new energy.
While change can be challenging, it’s also opened the door for talented designers, builders, and community members to step in and contribute in meaningful ways. I’m working hard to navigate this shift with care and clarity, ensuring we honor the foundation that was built while also evolving to meet the needs of the families we serve.
This chapter of growth is teaching me a lot about resilience, collaboration, and the power of community. I truly believe that with the right people and support, we can expand our impact and continue creating healing spaces that change lives.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What sets us apart is our ability to adapt—both creatively and strategically. Over the past two decades, we’ve weathered shifting economic climates and evolving design trends by staying nimble, listening deeply to our clients, and building long-term relationships rooted in trust. That adaptability has led to a loyal base of repeat clients and a reputation for delivering thoughtful, high-impact design solutions across regions.
But what I’m most proud of is how we’ve used design to make a difference beyond the industry. In 2009, I completed my first Make-A-Wish room makeover, and it changed the way I saw the power of space. That experience planted the seed for a deeper commitment to community-driven design, which now lives on through my role as President of Savvy Giving by Design Denver.
At Savvy Giving, we create healing spaces for children facing medical crises—bedrooms that offer comfort, dignity, and a sense of control during incredibly difficult times. Each makeover is tailored to the child’s unique needs and typically costs between $5,000 and $7,000. While the work is deeply rewarding, we’re currently focused on growing our fundraising efforts so we can expand our reach and impact even more families.
Leading both Six Walls and Savvy Giving has shown me that design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it makes people feel. Whether we’re designing a luxury home or a child’s sanctuary, our goal is the same: to create spaces that matter.

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
For me, it’s humility—and a genuine, outward focus on others. I’ve always believed that leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about listening, lifting others up, and creating space for people to thrive. Whether I’m guiding a design project at Six Walls or leading our nonprofit work at Savvy Giving by Design Denver, my goal is to bring out the best in the team around me.
I’m most fulfilled when I can help someone discover their strengths, give them the tools and opportunities to grow, and then step back and watch them shine. That kind of collaborative, people-first mindset has been the foundation of our success—because when your team feels seen, supported, and empowered, they do incredible things.
It’s not always easy, especially in times of transition or challenge, but staying grounded in humility and service has helped me navigate change with grace and build something that’s bigger than any one person.

Pricing:

• DONATE: $1000 for project management software
• DONATE: $500 for accounting software
• DONATE: $5,000 to fund our next room
• DONATE: $200 monthly for our marketing & messaging efforts online
• DONATE: $21,000 fund all three of our rooms for 1 year!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sgbddenver.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvygivingbydesigndenver/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1679162312172278
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sixwallsdawn/
• Other: https://six-walls.com/

Image Credits
IMAGES provided by: Noelle Williams Photography