Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Coburn.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Lauren. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I graduated from the Art Institute of Chicago with my degree in interior architecture in 2000.
My first design job out of school was working for the renowned Tigerman McCurry Architects firm. As their only full-time designer in an office full of architects, I needed to learn very quickly how to design high-end residential homes. It was there that I also learned of my passion for being part of the full architectural and design process of residential design working alongside architects daily. I truly learned from the best.
From there I worked for Soucie Horner Ltd., an interior design, and architecture firm as they were starting to grow their practice. I wanted to experience what starting a firm was like as opposed to working for an already very renowned and established firm such as Tigerman McCurry. It was there that I learned the art of eclectic design and interior architecture, and being a part of a growing firm.
For the past 14 years, I’ve had my own business, Lauren Coburn, LLC. I specialize in interior architecture and design. Along with full interior design services I also have a passion for serving on teams of builders, architects, and our clients helping with renovation and new construction. I enjoy serving as the client’s advocate and assisting in helping the team communicate and move through all phases of design.
I take pride in my work being very versatile, yet always involving a mix of styles, high/low, vintage/modern, and helping the client have the homes they envision for themselves and their families.
Finally, one thing that sets me apart from other designers is the fact that for the full 14 years of being in business I PASS ON MY COST COMPLETELY ON ALL PRODUCT and only charge for my time and skills.
I also serve as a Creative Director, a consultation service I’ve developed for real estate brokers and builders. I’ve been published in several magazines and books, have been featured on syndicated television, have designed prestigious spaces for the Merchandise Mart of Chicago, and was recently featured as Chicago’s only interior designer in a new book called Structure and Design by Panache Publishing.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Upon starting my business I interviewed friends and family/past clients to do research on how I could create a firm that would give clients what they wanted from a designer.
I formed my business plan in a very “unorthodox” manner for our industry. I have always passed on my cost completely on the product, have set up my clients whenever desired to purchase directly as an option, and have created transparent of a firm as possible.
I wanted to demystify the design process and make it more transparent to the client as opposed to their previous experiences. I only charge for my time and skills. I’ve received doubt from colleagues in my industry, but my clients continue to enjoy my transparent model.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Lauren Coburn, LLC – what should we know?
I specialize in high end residential interior architecture and design. I enjoy everything from working with teams and clients on full-service interior design to helping clients and teams of professionals build and renovate homes, and serve as the client’s advocate helping them walk through the process and make decisions/keep the team in good communication.
My transparent pricing structure, my EXCEPTIONAL customer service, and my firm staying small so my clients always get me personally sets me apart from my peers with the same level of experience.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mother, Barbara, is an artist in Detroit and has always been my inspiration both in life and creatively. My father, Ron Coburn, who is now deceased, was a brilliant surgeon and Formula One race car driver who also had a passion for architecture and design. He was my number one fan and always supported me to pursue my creative dreams.
Judy Niedermaier and Holly Hunt both served as visiting critiques when I attended the Art Institute. After my final senior year critique for a high-end residential project, they both encouraged me to pursue a career in high-end residential design. They, among others, continued to mentor me through the years.
Stanley Tigerman and Margaret McCurry gave me my first design job out of school after I had studied their work my whole life. They gave me my dream job!
And my husband, Adam, he is my business inspiration and he always supports me in my creative vision.
Contact Info:
- Address: 814 West George St. Chicago, Illinois 60657
- Website: laurencoburn.com
- Phone: 312-303-0111
- Email: lauren@laurencoburn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurencoburn.interiordesign/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurenCoburn.InteriorDesign/
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauren-coburn-llc
Image Credit:
Tony Soluri, Dennis Jordan
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