We are thrilled to welcome Michaela Schuette to the Lita Dirks & Co. team as our new Director of Business Development & Strategic Operations. With her diverse background in the homebuilding industry and her passion for interior design, Michaela brings a fresh perspective and boundless enthusiasm to her role. We recently had the chance to sit down with Michaela to learn more about her journey, her vision for the future, and what excites her most about joining our team.
A Professional Journey Rooted in Passion and Growth
Michaela’s journey in the homebuilding industry began in 2019 when she started as an online sales counselor. Her natural ability to connect with people and build relationships quickly propelled her into onsite new home sales. During her time working in merchandised model homes, Michaela developed a deep appreciation for the interior design side of the business. “I always knew that one day I wanted to be on the interior design side,” Michaela reflects. “I was interested in finding a role that would blend what I had learned in sales and how homebuyers interact with model homes with my love for interior design.” This desire to bridge her experience with her passion led her to Lita Dirks & Co., where she now embarks on an exciting new chapter.
A Role Defined by Versatility and Connection
As the Director of Business Development & Strategic Operations, Michaela is most excited about the versatility her role offers. “I love being able to connect with new people and build strong relationships with clients,” she shares. Her role will involve working closely with our design teams to elevate our clients’ experiences through collaborative strategies. Michaela’s enthusiasm for creating beautifully executed projects that generate new business opportunities is palpable, and we can’t wait to see the impact she will make.
Day-to-Day: Embracing Variety and Agility
No two days will be the same for Michaela, and that’s exactly how she likes it. From traveling to assist with project installations to budget and project planning, team building, and networking, her role is dynamic and ever-evolving. “I thrive in environments that add variety into my schedule,” Michaela explains. Her ability to adapt and embrace change will be key as she navigates her multifaceted responsibilities and contributes to the growth of our business.
Goals for the Future: Learning, Growing, and Making Connections
In her first few months, Michaela is focused on learning from Lita Dirks herself and the incredible legacy she has built. “My goal is to learn all I can from Lita, her legacy and success garners the desire to achieve and produce results that are nationally recognized and respected,” Michaela says. She is eager to nurture existing client relationships while also forging new connections, both locally and beyond Colorado. Additionally, Michaela aims to grow alongside our Colorado team by implementing new strategies and programs that support our staff’s success both in the office and out in the field.
Insights on Industry Trends and Relationship Building
When it comes to the future of the interior design industry, Michaela sees a growing demand for versatility in design. She is particularly drawn to the concept of “Quiet Luxury,” which blends styles to create spaces that are both luxurious and functional. Michaela is committed to continuing to expand Lita Dirks & Co.’s portfolio, showcasing the incredible talent of our designers and the impact their work can have.
Building meaningful relationships is one of Michaela’s strengths, and she approaches this aspect of her role with respect, honesty, and curiosity. Although new to the interior design industry, Michaela is eager to make connections by attending national and local networking events and working closely with our marketing team to ensure that Lita Dirks & Co. is represented in the best possible light.
A Passion for Design, Inside and Out
Michaela’s passion for interior design is deeply rooted in her upbringing, where she was encouraged to explore her creative side. From experimenting with her own living spaces to now blending styles that promote wellbeing and comfort, Michaela’s design philosophy is grounded in a love for nature and a desire to create spaces that tell a story. She looks forward to bringing this passion into her work at Lita Dirks & Co., helping clients and designers collaborate to create spaces that are both beautiful and meaningful.
Beyond Work: A Love for Adventure and “Granny Hobbies”
Outside of work, Michaela embraces the Colorado lifestyle with a love for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and boating. She also enjoys attending concerts, traveling, and spending time with her friends, family, and her beloved pup, Arlo. But there’s another side to Michaela that might surprise you—she loves a quiet night in with an audiobook, a puzzle, or some embroidery, which her friends affectionately refer to as her “granny hobbies.”
Looking Ahead: Collaboration, Growth, and Making a Difference
Michaela is most excited about the opportunity to collaborate with the team to continue telling the story of Lita Dirks & Co. She is passionate about showcasing the incredible work our designers produce and finding new ways to make a difference for our clients. As she grows alongside the team, Michaela envisions her role evolving into one that helps develop others and supports our collective growth.
When asked if she has any advice for aspiring professionals looking to break into business development in the interior design industry, Michaela humbly shares that her journey to this role was somewhat serendipitous. A coffee meeting with Lita led to an unexpected opportunity, and now Michaela is living her dream job. “I feel so lucky and excited to be here,” she says, and we feel just as fortunate to have her on board.
Welcome to the team, Michaela! We look forward to the exciting contributions you will make as part of the Lita Dirks & Co. family. Contact us to discuss your next project. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve these goals with thoughtful, strategic design solutions. Ready to make an impact with your model home? Contact us today to learn how we can help turn your vision into reality.
