Today we’d like to introduce you to Lachmee Chin.
Hi Lachmee, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In the vibrant tapestry of South Florida, my story unfolds—a tale woven from the dreams of immigrant parents who sought a better life. Growing up in Miami, our modest home, adorned in shades of pink that my mother lovingly chose, was a far cry from the glamorous image often portrayed. It was a canvas of simplicity that sparked my imagination.
As fate would have it, I was recruited to attend a magnet school for the arts, situated in a neighborhood that many would overlook. Here, I was the “gringo,” navigating the complexities of adolescence while honing my creative spirit. Surviving middle school was akin to constructing a fragile archway—each challenge a brick, each triumph a beam.
With the dawn of high school, I auditioned for the illustrious New World School of the Arts, hoping to immerse myself in an environment that celebrated creativity and intellect. Acceptance felt like a serendipitous alignment of stars, granting me access to a sanctuary of talent and ambition. Surrounded by fellow dreamers, I learned to push boundaries, guided by visionary teachers who instilled in us the importance of free thinking and technique.
This symphony of inspiration propelled me to pursue a career in interior design at Florida International University, where I earned my degree and became licensed in the state of Florida. My journey, however, was not without its challenges. During my formative years, I ventured into telemarketing, retail, and entrepreneurship, selling my paintings on the bustling streets of South Beach and Coconut Grove to afford my first used car. My parents, desiring a more conventional path for their eldest daughter, often viewed my artistic aspirations with skepticism, creating an uphill battle against their expectations.
Determined to find my place in the design world, I relentlessly sent out resumes until I landed a position managing a design library at a local firm. What began as organizing paperwork quickly evolved into drafting intricate designs on a drafting board, where I discovered the joy of translating visions into tangible blueprints. My talent did not go unnoticed; soon, I was entrusted with managing small projects and interacting with clients, laying the foundation for my burgeoning career.
Upon graduation, an opportunity arose to join a startup architectural firm. Initially hesitant, I recognized the chance to spearhead their interior design division—a pivotal moment that would shape my future. The firm’s New York architects sought a designer to create a seamless revenue stream, and I embraced the challenge with fervor.
My early months were spent building a material library and collaborating with architects, but soon, I was tasked with reimagining an entire penthouse floor. The result? A design that exceeded expectations, leading to successful sales during construction and subsequent publications of the units. However, the 2009 market crash hit our firm hard, reducing our team from 16 to just two. Yet, we persevered, believing in our designs and the faith of our clients.
A serendipitous turn of events brought new buyers seeking to purchase raw space, leading to a remarkable transformation of two penthouse units. Custom millwork, hand-selected stones, and bespoke lighting became the hallmarks of our work. As these projects garnered accolades and recognition, I was promoted to associate, my designs gaining momentum through word-of-mouth referrals.
With each project, I assembled my own team and ascended to the role of design director. I became the face of our firm, negotiating contracts and propelling our brand into the spotlight. My vision transcended mere aesthetics; I aspired to craft dream homes that defied imagination.
My journey is a testament to resilience and an unwavering belief in the power of perseverance. From a pink, unassuming home to negotiating contracts with confidence, each step has shaped my identity as a designer. As a 5’2” Indian woman in a predominantly male industry, I transformed perceived vulnerabilities into strengths, wielding my design sets as the binding documents of my success.
In hindsight, the path may seem clear, but it was carved through determination and creativity. My story is not just about achieving success; it’s about the relentless pursuit of happiness and the courage to dream beyond the limitations of humble beginnings.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Smooth roads only exist in storybooks. My journey has been anything but linear; it has been a thrilling ride along the Stelvio Pass, full of twisting turns and unexpected obstacles. Each experience—whether attending a magnet arts program in an inner-city school or navigating the complexities of high school and college—has challenged me to my core. There were moments I felt I could not go on, where the weight of doubt pressed down like an unyielding hill. Yet, in those times, I learned to hit the brakes, take a deep breath, and remind myself that the journey itself is what forges our strength and character. These struggles condition us to appreciate the destination, igniting a desire for the next adventure, no matter how winding the road ahead may be.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am passionate about transforming spaces into immersive experiences that reflect the unique identities of my clients. My specialization lies in a thoughtful curation of interiors—one that transcends mere decoration or styling. While I deeply respect the artistry involved in those disciplines, my approach is rooted in a “listen first” philosophy. I believe that true design begins with understanding my clients’ aspirations and needs.
What sets me apart is my ability to envision how various elements harmonize within a space. Once I engage with my clients, I can intuitively visualize their dreams in three dimensions, seamlessly blending materials, lighting, and spatial planning to create a cohesive atmosphere. Curation, in my eyes, is an intricate dance of design rather than a superficial arrangement of decor.
Moreover, I am acutely aware of the practical aspects that underpin every project. I take into consideration lead times, budgets, and logistical challenges to ensure a smooth journey from concept to completion. My clients trust me to harness my creative vision to realize spaces they could never have imagined, and I take immense pride in that responsibility. Ultimately, my goal is to create environments that not only meet their expectations but also elevate their everyday experiences.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I welcome collaboration with individuals and organizations that share a passion for transforming spaces into extraordinary experiences. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking to reimagine your living environment, an architect looking for a design partner, or a vendor eager to showcase unique materials, I invite you to connect with me.
Working with me begins with an open dialogue where we can explore your vision, needs, and aspirations. I am committed to fostering a collaborative atmosphere, where ideas flow freely and creativity thrives. Together, we can curate spaces that resonate on a personal level, blending practicality with artistic expression.
For those looking to support my work, spreading the word about my design philosophy and projects can make a significant impact. Referrals and testimonials from satisfied clients help build a community of like-minded individuals who appreciate the art of thoughtful design. Additionally, engaging with my content on social media or through workshops allows you to participate in the journey of bringing innovative design to life.
I believe that great design is a collaborative process, and I’m excited to embark on this journey with you, transforming visions into reality, one space at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: lachmeechin.com
- Email: Lachmee@lachmeechin.com
