Honoree Profile

Laura Matson

Kreher Barna Design Studio

Title: Senior Interior Designer
Tenure at Firm: 13 years
Nominating Principal: Catherine Kreher, Principal
School: University of Florida
Major: BA Design

Inspired By:

I find most of my inspiration in nature. Half of my photographs on my phone are of sunrises or sunsets. I find the combination of colors and reflections of these colors on the bay to be mesmerizing. Being in nature, either hiking or stand-up paddleboarding allows me to clear my head. In the stillness around me, where there are no distractions, I am able to work through design problems. I’ve done my best thinking and problem solving while on a hike or run along Bayshore Boulevard.

Keys to a Successful Project:
It is important to recognize that each client and project is a unique experience. Each client is different with their own individual vision and project goals. Each project has its own set of challenges. One of the ways to keep project thriving is to constantly listen and communicate with the client and team members and manage expectations along the way.

“Laura is a very talented creative interior designer, with the technical knowledge and attention to detail that ensures design excellence in all her projects.

She’s always helping other designers by lending her expertise to projects and brings a level of excellence that inspires us all. Laura is a dedicated, hardworking mom of two teenage boys and juggles demanding design work and her other responsibilities with grace.”

Catherine Kreher
Principal

Favorite Haworth Collection Piece:

My favorite Haworth Ancillary piece is the Archibald Lounge chair. It radiates elegance. It is just the right size to stand out in a lobby. The detailing of the piece is simply beautiful. Although it has a contemporary style, it has a comfortable sit.

What advice do you have for other designers?

As designers, we are constantly learning. My advice to young designers is to see each project as an opportunity to grow. Consider each project as a valuable lesson that you can learn from. Recognize that no project is perfect. Accept that you will face complications along the course of each project. Working through these challenges is where we evolve. Take what you can from the past projects and build upon it. Harness these complications as opportunities to find creative solutions.