Who is Laura Thurman (Thurman Design Studio), and what should we know about you?
Laura Thurman, is well known for a global aesthetic filtered through a modern lens. I use my upbringing in the diverse city of Los Angeles and world travels for inspiration, as I collaborates with clients to create beautiful spaces that reflect their values and personality.
My inspiring designs have been featured in national and regional publications, including Architectural Digest, HGTV, Business of Home, and The Cottage Journal. Additionally, I have been named best in Houzz, and Changemakers Class of 2021. I have received numerous industry honors recognizing emergence as a fresh voice and influencer in the design industry.
TDS’s guiding principles are: EDUCATE. INSPIRE. CREATE. We serve our clients by guiding them through a thoughtfully curated design experience, that yields creativity, displays quality, and goes beyond what the client imagined.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It’s a time of reflection and promise. I always want to acknowledge our past, the struggle and the injustices. However, I think it’s important to remember and celebrate all the positive influences and impacts that the black community has made. We have to keep moving forward and carve out our own paths that allow us to shine.
Can you share a favorite book or author that made an impact on your life?
No book will top the Bible—its power, its ability to guide and teach—there’s nothing like it. If we’re talking business, I’ve been really impacted by the book “Miracle Morning for Entrepreneurs” by Cameron Herold, Hal Elrod, and Honoree Corder. The book is full of so many helpful insights and business tips. It’s really transformed how I view starting my day!
What is your definition of a hero, who is yours, and why?
This is a tough one for me. The concept of a hero feels a bit outdated. I have a few friends who have grown up in really bad situations and yet have put in the work as adults to grow and evolve as human beings. They’ve ultimately created the best versions of themselves despite their rough upbringing. That, to me, is heroic and worth celebrating.
How do you manage and maintain a positive company culture?
It’s important that you know who you are, what your talents are, and your value. All kinds of second-guessing comes into place if you don’t know the ladder. Boundaries, you have to fight for a healthy work-life balance. I’m not perfect at it, but I’m always trying to separate the two and be present for each one. This keeps me grounded, ensuring I get the best my career has to offer, as well as all the joy family and friendship bring. When I do the mental and emotional work for myself, I can then pass this down to the team.
What is unique about your business that makes you stand out?
I love culture. I’m genuinely inspired by global flair, architecture, fashion, color, cuisine, etc. I want our designs to have a sense of soul in them.
For me, that’s represented by creating a global aesthetic filtered through a modern lens. I believe our projects stand out because they are unique and really embrace color in a sophisticated way.
What song is your personal anthem?
Yanni Tribute: Deliverance
What’s the biggest goal for your business in 2024?
To scale and grow, I want to bring on a Jr designer. Make more connections with developers and architects.
Have you had a mentor along your journey to help you professionally to get you where you are today?
Absolutely; I have had a few wonderful people really pour into me early on in my career. I know without a doubt that I am where I am today in my business because of their time, generosity, and guidance.
Can you share a significant lesson you have learned as a business leader?
TRUST YOUR GUT! Your intuition is rarely wrong when you truly listen to it. During the slow season, you should invest in your “back of house” to do list, and rev up for when the busy seasons flows.
