At Lita Dirks & Co., we believe that creating beautiful, functional spaces goes beyond design—it’s about building a legacy of inspiration, collaboration, and empowerment. Our commitment to giving back is woven into everything we do, from mentoring young talent to forging meaningful partnerships and providing hands-on opportunities for interns. By investing in the next generation and collaborating with industry leaders, we’re helping shape the future of interior design and homebuilding.
HBA’s Professional Women in Building’s Mentorship: Inspiring the Next Generation
Mentorship is at the heart of our mission. Lita Dirks, the visionary behind our award-winning firm, is passionate about empowering aspiring designers to find their voice and make their mark. A prime example is her mentorship of Hannah, a talented young individual who recently joined us for a Day in the Life experience at our offices. This immersive visit gave Hannah a front-row seat to the inner workings of our firm, from the creative process behind model home merchandising to the collaborative efforts with builders and developers. During her time with us, Hannah explored how passion, creativity, and teamwork come together to create spaces that not only sell but also leave a lasting impact. Lita’s mentorship philosophy is rooted in fostering confidence and leadership, and this experience was designed to inspire Hannah to envision her future in the industry. By opening our doors, we aim to nurture talent and provide real-world insights that spark innovation and ambition.
Partnerships: Shaping the Future of Design Education
Our commitment to giving back extends beyond our office walls through meaningful partnerships with industry leaders like Stephanie Clemons, Ph.D., FASID, FIDEC, Professor Emerita of Interior Architecture and Design at Colorado State University. For years, Lita Dirks has supported K-12 youth across the country, and her latest contribution is a testament to this dedication. Lita generously provided professional photos of her design installations for inclusion in Interiors: Design, Process, and Practice, a publication by Goodheart-Willcox. These images allow middle and high school students to analyze high-quality interiors that prioritize health, safety, and welfare—key principles in impactful design.
This collaboration not only elevates design education but also inspires young students to pursue careers in interior design. Zena Breimhort, our talented designer, represents Lita Dirks & Co. on the ACC Interior Design Board to continue Lita’s legacy of industry involvement and giving back to student communities. By sharing our work with future generations, we’re helping shape the perspectives of both designers and clients, fostering a deeper appreciation for spaces that transform lives.
Internships: Hands-On Learning with Real Impact
Our internship program is another cornerstone of our commitment to nurturing talent. Meet Kris Brose, our design intern, whose journey with Lita Dirks & Co. began when she met Zena at the career fair hosted by the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD), where she earned her bachelor’s degree in interior design. Kris was drawn to our firm’s unique blend of interior design and model home merchandising, and her enthusiasm earned her a spot on our team.
Since joining us, Kris has immersed herself in the design process, learning the ins and outs of projects from start to finish. “I leave each day feeling accomplished and proud of the work I have completed,” she shares. Kris values the collaborative spirit of our team, noting, “The team is very professional, experienced, and helpful, and I am honored to be learning from such talented designers.” From mastering multitasking to achieving project goals, Kris is gaining the skills and confidence to excel in her career.
Her favorite part? Working alongside our team and asking questions to deepen her understanding of the design process. Looking ahead, Kris aspires to continue growing, envisioning spaces that bring her creative vision to life. Her passion for interior design and eagerness to learn make her a perfect fit for our firm, and we’re excited to support her journey.
Why Giving Back Matters
Mentorships, partnerships, and internships are essential to driving innovation and excellence in homebuilding. Events like the PWB Luncheon, where we connect with industry professionals, and hands-on opportunities like Hannah’s visit and Kris’s internship strengthen our community by empowering the next generation to lead with creativity and confidence.
For builders and developers, partnering with a firm that values collaboration and leadership means working with a team dedicated to creating homes that inspire and sell. Our design expertise, paired with our commitment to nurturing talent, ensures that every project we undertake transforms properties and contributes to a brighter future for our industry.
