What inspired you to join our company, and what excites you most about your new role?
I have such a passion for residential interior design, which is where the bulk of my experience lies (specifically new construction properties) and so I was excited at the opportunity to join the LD&Co team and apply that knowledge to Model Home Design. I love that the clientele and design styles in Model Home Design are so diverse, and each project offers a chance to tell a unique story. It’s very creatively energizing to have the chance to touch on so many different client demographics and styles!
Can you share a memorable experience or achievement from your previous work that you believe has prepared you well for your current position?
I am proud of an early project in my career, which was a multi-family model unit for a community in downtown Denver. The project was scheduled for installation over Christmas, and I hosted a “Meet the Designer” marketing event to connect with prospective buyers over holiday cookies and hot cocoa, and chat about the design and unit. My favorite part of my job is connecting people to their spaces through design, so having the chance to meet and speak with potential buyers in real time was very rewarding. I think that this early experience really hooked me on the concept of model design and helped me understand the specific needs of these project types.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests that bring you joy and help you recharge?
Now that we’re in the full swing of summer, I love to mountain bike or hike with my husband Greg and our two pups, Bowie and Utah. In the winter, I’m usually skiing or snowboarding at Winter Park. I’ll try my hand at any crafty hobby I can find (much to the protest of my near-bursting craft closet) so when I’m not in the mountains I’m knitting a sweater, tackling a home renovation project, painting, DIYing, or hosting friends and family!
Is there a particular book, podcast, or TED Talk that has had a significant impact on your life or career? If so, could you share a brief summary and explain why it resonated with you?
When I was early in my career out of college, I was working in digital merchandising and e-commerce for home furnishings and upon leaving that role to move to Colorado, my manager gifted me “What Color is your Parachute”. It’s an incredibly helpful book that’s a great guide and workbook, especially for anyone interested in making a career jump to another industry. I knew from my work experience that I was inspired and interested in Interior Design, and it gave me the confidence and know-how to dive into the industry and pursue further education. It truly changed the trajectory of my career!
What is one thing about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I used to be a musician and performed quite a bit, though now mostly just for my pups (who make for a very cute crowd).
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance, and do you have any tips or strategies that have been particularly effective for you?
I make time every day for one activity that’s just for myself – no matter how busy my day is. Whether it’s a workout class, waking up early to enjoy my coffee instead of multitasking, going to dinner for a change of scenery, or just putting on my favorite album to make weekday chores more fun, incorporating one thing I enjoy each day makes me feel like each day is well-rounded. I also limit my screen time on weekends, get plenty of fresh air, and try to be present in everything I do outside of work!
Stay tuned as we unveil the remarkable designs and spaces that our new team members will bring to life. The future of interior design at Lita Dirks & Co. looks brighter than ever! Contact us to learn more about our design and installation process. We design and merchandise model homes and amenity spaces that elicit dreams of home ownership and a lifestyle worth living, set our client’s product apart from the competition, and help homes sell.
