Member Name with Appellation(s): Hope Rachelle, Associate IIDA, LEED AP

Education: Western Dakota Tech, AAS

Employer with Location: Lenae Design, LLC - Sioux Falls, SD

Years in Design: 14

Years in IIDA: 2

IIDA Great Plains Chapter City Center: South Dakota

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What might we find on your desk right now?

Floor plans, sketches, project folders, magazines plant, picture frames, phone charger and headphones.
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What’s your favorite project that you’ve worked on and why?

Maribella Ristorante – Sioux Falls, SD.

This project was my first restaurant project, and I enjoyed bringing the client’s vision of bringing authentic, old-world Italy to Sioux Falls. What started out as a blank, open space in a newer building was filled with domed ceilings, exposed brick, warm woods, beautiful colors and meaningful images. We were hired to do the space planning, finishes, lighting and furniture selections. The restaurant has been well received by the community and as a designer, it reminds me of why I do what I do. We just finished another project, Trio Jazz Club, with this client which is next door to the Maribella’s and was another unique project. This is a close second!

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Do you have anything in your home that you’ve designed/created?

I designed a coffee table made from a walnut slab with live and waterfall edges that allows for two ottoman cubes to fit underneath it and had it made by a local woodworker.

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What inspired you to go into your line of work?

I grew up wanting to be an architect. I loved the idea of creating a space that many people would see and enjoy. My life journey ended up bringing me to the interior design side of creating beautiful spaces for people to enjoy.

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When needing a break from it all what helps you escape?

I love to travel, read and spend timewith loved ones.

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How do you practice self-care?

I enjoy taking walks and naps. I’ve recentlydiscovered infrared sculpt yoga and am really enjoying the challenge of it.