We had the good fortune of connecting with Lucas/Eilers Design and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lucas/Eilers Design, what matters most to you?
Honesty. I’ve learned over 26 years in business that our success depends on our relationships with our clients, our vendors, our employees, and each other. Honesty in every one of those areas is what makes it all work.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’ve always been passionate about design, but never considered myself an entrepreneur. Sarah and I decided to start our own business when the principle of the design firm where we had worked together for 15 years retired, abruptly kicking us out of the nest! Running our own business has come very naturally to Sarah, but has been more of a struggle for me. Our partnership has flourished because we possess different strengths, but share the same business ethics. Over the years, we have learned how important it is to treat each project as if it is our own home, and each client as though they are our family. We are proud of the body of work we have created over the last 26 years and are excited about the projects to come. Getting to know our clients, and discovering what brings them joy in their surroundings helps us create unique, personalized spaces that mirror the personalities of those who live there. We truly enjoy the process and strive for excellence in every design. Putting together our Lucas/Eilers team of designers, procurement managers, assistants, and support staff allows us to provide this premier level of service to our clients. Every business has its challenges, but we are fortunate to work in a profession we love because that makes it all worthwhile.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I could spend weeks touring our wonderful Houston museums and I am always delighted to show them off to visiting friends. The permanent collection at MFAH is world-class and we all benefit from the traveling exhibit garnered by our Director. The campus is thoughtfully designed and features outstanding buildings that are just as interesting as the art. The extensive collection at the Menil, along with the newly restored Rothko chapel and wonderful Cy Twombly gallery, require the better part of a day to experience. Bistro Menil is a great start for lunch or dinner and the new restaurant in the Kinder building of the MFAH is high on my list. While in the museum area, a trip to the James Terrell space on the Rice campus is a must, and a trip to Houston is never complete without margaritas and Tex-Mex. There are lots of options but it’s hard to beat The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Having just celebrated the holidays, I feel immense love and gratitude for so many people who have supported and encouraged me over the years. Starting with the wonderful clients who partner with us and bring great ideas to our projects. To our mentor, Mary Ann Bryan, who taught us that the business of design is equally as important as the creative aspect. I am also thankful for all of the wonderful designers and support staff who have worked for Lucas/Eilers past and present who made such a wonderful impact on our designs and business. Last but not least, to my business partner Sarah who helped make the last 26 years a success – it has been an absolute pleasure!

Website: Www.lucaseilers.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucaseilersdesign/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucas-eilers-design-associates

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LucasEilersDsgn

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LucasEilers

Other: Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lucaseilers/_created/

Image Credits
Photo 1 (Sarah and Sandy Portrait): Stephen Karlisch Photo 2: (White couch): Julie Soefer Photo 3: (Green and Blue): Julie Soefer Photo 4: (Windows): Julie Soefer Photo 5: (Living space – cream and pale blue): Peter Molick Photography Photo 6: (Dining space): Julie Soefer Photo 7: (Living room): Stephen Karlisch Photo 8: (Sarah and Sandy): Stephen Karlisch Photo 9: (Sarah and Sandy in room): Gittings Photography

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