Meet Laura Roberts

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Since early childhood I have been fascinated with design, and the way a person’s environment affects their overall well-being. I studied filmmaking at Boston University, planning to become a writer/director; but after working on a few student films, I found myself drawn to set design. I loved creating spaces for characters as a way to tell their stories through design—specifically their interiors and personal space.

After graduating from college, I worked as a production designer and decorator in New York, on numerous art-house films and high-end ad campaigns for companies like Microsoft and Calvin Klein. Shortly after I relocated to Los Angeles, a friend asked me to help him on an interior design project. I completely fell in love with both the business and the craft, and I spent the next ten years as a designer for some of the top interior and architecture firms in Los Angeles.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
One of the most difficult challenges for me has always been in finding a healthy work/life balance. After starting my own company, I find there are even less hours in the day for doing the things that are most important, like reading, visiting art museums, travel, spending time with family and friends, and all the other activities that lead to a richer life and, ultimately, a deeper appreciation and understanding of design. I tend to always put my work and my clients before myself, so I make it a point to schedule time in the week for when I am NOT working – otherwise I might never stop!

We’d love to hear more about what you do.
LRI is a small, hands-on firm that is defined by a commitment to design that is both beautiful and practical. It’s a holistic approach that results in thoughtful, creative interiors that contribute to my clients’ overall well-being. One of the most important jobs of a designer is to be able to listen and interpret.

I take the information that my clients give me and tackle every project with a focused, individualized process. Each design is tailored specifically to my clients’ taste and lifestyle, without relying on trends or cliched ideas.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mentor, biggest supporter, and main contributor to the establishment of my business is Luis Ortega of Luis Ortega Interiors. Besides being an incredible design talent for over 30 years, Luis is also one of the kindest people I have ever known. While working with him in his West Hollywood firm, he generously shared with me his years of experience and overall philosophy of design. His belief in me, as well as the many opportunities that opened up to me because of him, enabled me to take the leap of faith to finally open my own firm; and Luis remains a dear friend and mentor to this day.

I also need to credit the many vendors, craftspeople, technicians, and artisans that contribute to every project. Without their talent and labor, my designs would exist in a vacuum. It is truly an honor to collaborate with other like-minded people every day.