Honoree Profile

Luis Santos

BOX Studios

Title: Interior Designer II
Tenure at Firm: 4 years
Nominating Principal: Ferdinand Dimailig, Principal
School: Illinois Institute of Technology
Major: Architecture

Inspired By:

I get a lot of my inspiration from the past, especially the bold, colorful energy of retro 80s design, the simplicity of Bauhaus, and the clean lines of modernist architecture. I’m drawn to how these styles were both intentional and expressive, balancing strong visual identity with real functionality. There’s something exciting about revisiting ideas that have already made an impact and giving them a fresh perspective. Nostalgia is such a powerful feeling that connects all of us, and bringing elements of past design into current work can create a sense of comfort, familiarity, and positivity while still feeling new and relevant.

Keys to a Successful Project:

To me, the keys to a successful project start with building real trust with the client. When there’s open communication and confidence on both sides, the process feels collaborative instead of transactional. It’s also important to prioritize the programmatic needs of the space over personal design preferences. And finally, not being afraid to try new ideas or push boundaries can lead to the most meaningful and memorable results.

Which experiences have most influenced how you approach design?

One of the most influential experiences in shaping how I approach design has been working on projects with tight budgets. While larger budgets can allow for more dramatic or grand design moves, smaller budgets really challenge you to think smarter and be more resourceful. They force you to prioritize what truly matters, find creative solutions, and make thoughtful material and layout decisions that still have strong impact. I’ve learned that constraints can actually spark innovation rather than limit it. Working within tighter parameters has strengthened my problem-solving skills and pushed me to create designs that are both practical and imaginative, without relying solely on expensive elements to make a statement.

“Luis exemplifies what it means to be a true professional designer. He is remarkably well-rounded across all phases of the design process and consistently demonstrates a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach. His responsiveness, efficiency, and clear communication set him apart, making him our nominee for this year’s BOS Profile in Design.”

Ferdinand Dimailig
Principal

Favorite Haworth Collection Piece & Why:

Archibald Lounge Chair. It offers a unique form, and I really like the folds in the upholstery that provide nice texture. The chair can be dressed up for more executive areas but could still be approachable in more casual lounge settings. It also offers a comfortable sit, which is what I look for most in lounge seating.

Your current favorite color (RGB, CMYK, or HEX#):

RGB 204, 85, 0