Meet Melissa Louch | Interior Designer & Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Louch and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I love design. As a former Product Design Engineer, I was familiar with the creative process behind designing products and wanted to get back into the business. But with one kid still at home, I didn’t want to travel as was required in previous jobs so I decided to switch gears to Interior Design. I was incredibly fortunate to have a close friend who was starting a whole house remodel just as I was getting into the business. She trusted me to guide her in all of her decisions from initial floorpan layouts to final accessory choices. I’m a natural problem solver and go getter so after the success of that first project, starting my own studio was a no brainer.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Studio Meima is a small interior design firm based in Boulder. My business is different because I bring unique experience to the interior design world. I have an undergrad degree in product design engineering and worked as an engineer before having kids. I’ve also been involved with several ground up building projects over the years. I understand all the steps required to go from a sketch to a finished project. In addition, I use 3D modeling extensively to help my clients visualize what their new space will look like before any walls are torn down or product is purchased. This tool has been invaluable not only to my clients but to the their contractors. It ensures that we’re all on the same page before construction begins.

I’m most proud of the connections I have built with my clients. Since I’m the only employee, I take on very few projects at a time which allows me to completely focus on the individual needs and wants of each client. I’m able to get to know them and build a rapport which I like to think shows in the final design. My greatest joy is when my clients tell me they love their new space and then request my help for another.

My business is relatively new and it hasn’t been all rainbows and unicorns. I’ve definitely made mistakes. I’ve gotten where I am today by jumping in with both feet, occasionally making mistakes and when they do happen, owning up to them immediately and focusing on a solution as quickly as possible.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m most happy outside so I would definitely take her out into nature first and foremost. We’d go hiking, paddle boarding, and gravel biking. For food we’d hit the farmers market, Bar Taco, Avanti, and honestly, mostly cook at home. For entertainment, I would definitely hit First Friday in the Nobo Art District!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Terri Taydus, Colorado Lifestyles Realty, absolutely deserves the utmost credit and thanks for helping me get my business off the ground. She not only encouraged me while I was going through school, she also trusted me with her house remodel. She then went on to recommend my company for several other projects once hers was complete. I can’t thank her enough!!

Website: www.studiomeima.com

Other: melissa@studiomeima.com

Image Credits
Virtuance