Leslie Lamarre, the renowned interior designer and co-founder of TRG Architecture, shares her story and insights with Bay Area Women Magazine.
Introduction
In this exclusive interview, we get the opportunity to delve into the fascinating career of Leslie Lamarre, a talented interior designer who has made a name for herself in the San Francisco Bay Area. Leslie takes us on a journey through her experiences, challenges, and accomplishments in the field of architecture and design. So let's dive in and discover the world of Leslie Lamarre!
Getting Started as a Designer
Leslie's passion for design and creativity was nurtured in her childhood. Growing up in an old farmhouse, she was exposed to the world of DIY projects from an early age. Whether it was restoring faded wallpaper or building new dormers, Leslie loved every aspect of the process. Her interest in art and art history further fueled her desire to pursue a career in design. However, she initially embarked on a journey in journalism before eventually finding her true calling in the world of architecture and interior design.
The Business and its Vision
TRG Architecture, co-founded by Leslie and her husband Randy Grange, is a full-service architecture and interior design firm specializing in high-end custom homes. The firm's passion lies in creating dream homes that reflect their clients' unique personalities and aspirations. Leslie takes pride in her diverse team of 16 talented individuals who bring their varied perspectives to every project, adding immense value to their work.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit
Being a business owner has provided Leslie with the freedom to express her creativity and choose the projects she is truly passionate about. Interestingly, she didn't set out to be an entrepreneur; instead, she followed her passion, and the path to entrepreneurship unfolded naturally. Leslie believes that pursuing one's passion is the key to success and fulfillment in any career.
Lessons from a Small Business Owner
One valuable lesson Leslie learned as a small business owner is the importance of taking care of her employees. Having experienced the challenges of being overworked and underappreciated in the past, she is committed to providing her team with reasonable hours and excellent benefits. This positive work experience fosters a happier and more productive work environment, which has been fundamental to the success of TRG.
Leslie Lamarre shares her thoughts on women in the workplace.
Challenges Faced by Women Today
Leslie addresses one of the most significant challenges faced by women today - the issue of sexual harassment and assault. She emphasizes that this problem exists across all industries, including architecture and interior design. The #MeToo Movement has shed light on the prevalent issue, which Leslie believes is long overdue for attention and change.
Advice for Success
To young women aspiring to succeed in the workplace, Leslie offers valuable advice: trust your instincts and speak up. She encourages young women to let their voices be heard, never underestimate the value of their opinions and ideas.
Professional Accomplishments
Leslie's dedication and talent have earned her numerous accolades, with one of her greatest professional accomplishments being the winning of nine national design awards in a single year. This recognition serves as a testament to her exceptional skills and creative vision.
Achieving Work-Life Balance
Managing a successful career while maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a challenge faced by many. Leslie shares her approach, which involves setting boundaries. She firmly believes in separating work and personal life by not discussing work at home and avoiding meetings with clients on weekends. This practice allows her to prioritize her personal life and recharge, resulting in a happier and more balanced lifestyle.
Childhood Dreams
We all had dreams when we were young, and Leslie was no exception. At the age of 10, she aspired to be a veterinarian due to her love for animals. Even though her career path took her in a different direction, her passion for animals remains unwavering.
Five Things About Leslie Lamarre
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Julia Morgan – An Inspiring Architect: If Leslie could talk to one famous person, it would be Julia Morgan, the first licensed woman architect in California. Leslie admires her talent and considers her a role model for women in the field of architecture and design.
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The Bay Area's Allure: Living in the Bay Area offers Leslie the opportunity to enjoy the proximity to the ocean, San Francisco, skiing, and the wine country. With so much to offer, it's hard for her to choose just one favorite aspect.
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Dreaming of India: Leslie has always dreamed of visiting India, enticed by its rich history, spirituality, vibrant colors, and textures. She believes it would be a feast for the senses and a never-ending source of design inspiration.
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The Power of Humor: Leslie values the importance of humor and believes that maintaining a sense of humor is crucial in both personal and professional life.
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Future Plans: Leslie hints at having secret plans for the future but keeps us in suspense. She promises to keep us updated on her exciting endeavors.
And with that, we conclude our insightful conversation with Leslie Lamarre, a talented interior designer, and business owner. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all aspiring designers and entrepreneurs. Keep an eye out for Leslie's future ventures, as she continues to leave her mark on the world of architecture and design.
TRG Architecture + Interior Design 1014 Howard Ave. San Mateo, CA 94401 Ph: (650) 579-5762 Fax: (650) 579-0115
