Our designers are all extremely talented and we value their unique personalities and encourage their individuality. We look forward for you to get to know them. We are thrilled to have Lisa Vasquez, our new Senior Associate, help us kick off our new monthly blog series, Designer Diaries.
1) What is your favorite BraytonHughes project?
Grand Hyatt at SFO was a challenging project with so many teams involved, yet it was such a rewarding project. I enjoyed coming up with the design that referenced the locale, the airport, the state of California, and the city of San Francisco. My favorite space to work on was the suites, specifically the Presidential Suite. The colors, textures, and furniture found in the suites are reminiscent of the beautiful California sunset that can be seen over the many bridges found within the city.
2) What is your favorite design product?
Currently, I am loving the new lamp collection from Porta Romana. The Nina Lamp is like the little black dress, simple yet beautiful for any occasion.
3) What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?
HGTV! I used to watch HGTV on a regular basis in the 1990’s & early 2000’s. When I was trying to figure out a career path in my mid-twenties, a good friend of mine said, “hey why don’t you try out interior design”. The next day I made an appointment to tour FIDM in Los Angeles, and a month later, I was an art student. Looking back, my bedroom was always my canvas, like a chameleon constantly changing colors.
4) What is your most used emoji?
Those who know me well, will not be surprised: 🤦♀️ 🙄
5) What was your first job?
My very first job, right out of high school, was at McDonalds. I met my next employer, a wholesale computer parts company, through the drive thru and soared from there. You have to start somewhere.
6) What is your favorite snack food?
Just found out about Pili nuts dusted with cacao powder…they melt in your mouth and “THEY” say they’re healthy. Win win! Somewhat better than the Trader Joe’s pretzel thins I was addicted to for three months straight.
7) If you could teleport anywhere right now, where would you go?
To a beautiful private island with a hammock in the trees, soft white sand, and clear water. Who doesn’t need to disconnect sometimes?!
8) Where have you gotten lost on purpose?
I tend to do that a lot on my travels. That’s the best part of traveling. I just recently wandered the souks of Marrakesh, Tangier, and Essaouira in Morocco. You find the best local food and unique shops that way.
9) In a parallel universe, what is your profession?
A doctor serving Doctors without Borders giving back to those in need…or a superstar actress.
10) Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?
Both! I love the apricot Ceylon tea latte from Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, my guilty pleasure when I’m in L.A. But on a regular day, a latte with whole milk, a single sugar pack, and if I’m in the mood, a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.