We sat down with local architect Nadia Palacios Lauterbach to find out what inspires her projects and what challenges she faces as a female in her industry.
How did you decide to start your own architecture firm and what void were you trying to fill in the Houston market?
I got laid off at the height of the “great recession” and the jobs that were available were terribly uninspiring. A friend of mine asked me for help re-designing her office and she offered to pay me. That’s when the bulb went off that I could have my own business. At the time there were only a handful of architects that created true, high quality, traditional architecture and I wanted to fill that void.
What have been your struggles as a female in your industry?
Skepticism from male contractors and trades. Rude comments. Condescending attitudes.
What are the benefits of being a female architect?
Most of our residential clients are composed of male and female couples, and the female part ends up leading the project. As a woman, I develop a better rapport with our female clients than my male colleagues do. I can also relate better to aspects of domesticity that traditionally fall on females (like raising children and managing a household) since I am a mother and wife myself.
How would you describe the aesthetic for which you are known?
Traditional but fresh. We shine at doing very sophisticated millwork and stone details.
From where do you draw influence for your home projects?
From traveling, history, books, magazines, Pinterest, Instagram.
At one point in their projects should homeowners bring in a professional architect? What things should one consider when selecting an architect?
The architect should be the first member of the design team hired. They should look beyond portfolio and make sure there is a personality match because the homeowner-architect relationship can often last years, you should work with someone that you like and get along with.
How closely do you work alongside an interior designer in your residential projects?
Very closely. We like to involve an interior designer early in the design process and they become our partners on the projects.
How do you inspire young women interested in architecture?
I belong to a few organizations that allow me to be in contact with architecture students and offer mentorship. Lately, I have been associated with the School of Architecture at the University of Houston. They have an organization called “Future Women in Architecture” and I am offering mentorship to the students through it.
Most inspiring buildings on the planet?
The Alhambra in Spain; Saint Paul’s Cathedral in London; the Petit Trianon in Versailles; all of Rome, Italy.
Along with Nadia, the next Tidbits & Takeaways lunch features panelists interior designer Marie Flanigan and Realtor Kyla Linn. Interested in these topics? Send a note to rsvp@gotidbits.com and we’ll reach back out with event details.
Tidbits & Takeaways | Tues, Oct 21
TMC Helix Park | 1885 Old Spanish Trail Houston, TX 77030