Sam Cockayne

Background

About Sam Cockayne

My journey into entrepreneurship began with a wake-up call—I was done with the profit-over-people, corner-cutting mindset I kept seeing in the interior design industry. I wanted to create something better, something that didn’t compromise on quality, integrity, or the environment. After years with firms prioritizing numbers over impact, I knew it was time for a change. That’s why I founded Zest: to set a new standard based on integrity, transparency, sustainability, and joy. At Zest, we know that exceptional design doesn’t just elevate a space; it transforms the guest experience—and boosts the bottom line. A thoughtfully designed hotel attracts repeat guests, fosters positive reviews, and creates a lasting impression that translates directly to revenue. That’s why every project is an investment in both beauty and profitability. To me, client satisfaction, quality, and empowered employees aren’t just ideals—they’re essentials. From day one, I’ve been on a mission to lead by example, raising the bar on what hotel design can achieve with every project. Every space has its unique personality, and I’m passionate about showcasing that personality with designs guests will remember—sustainably, beautifully, and profitably.