Meet Steven Meyer

We recently connected with Steven Meyer and have shared our conversation below.

Steven, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.

Being a creative defines my life; it’s perhaps the most distinctive aspect of who I am. Engaging with new projects and fellow designers has been crucial in keeping my creativity alive and growing. Finding a mentor or someone who embodies a career path I aspire to has also proven incredibly valuable.

As my artistic style has matured and become more refined, there have been times when I’ve felt creatively exhausted. Recognizing this early on, I’ve learned that the best solution is to shift focus, even if only temporarily. I find that I work most effectively when I organize my workdays into compartments, dedicating specific days each week to different projects. This approach not only breaks up the monotony but also prevents overwhelm from focusing too intensely on one project.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I studied Architecture in college, but my design career truly began to unfold in 2015 when I moved to Manhattan on a whim and found myself immersed in architectural lighting design. The experience was invaluable, shaping my approach to design in profound ways. Working alongside top designers in the city and witnessing the final stages of our collaborative projects before delivery to clients left an indelible mark on me.

All the while, I harbored a passion for collecting antiques and handmade objects, unsure of how to integrate this passion into my career. There’s something captivating about the craftsmanship of old and the histories embedded in each piece—an object’s story of a life lived, and its potential for transformation through careful restoration or reinvention.

In 2023, I made the bold decision to leave the lighting firm where I had risen to the position of Partner. It was a daunting step, but looking back, I feel only pride in my journey. Just before departing, my fiancé and I purchased a home—a 1920s Spanish property in Coral Gables, Florida—that became our canvas for something truly extraordinary. Despite its eerie appearance at the time of purchase, Andrew and I transformed it into an amazing residence, filled with our creative vision and dedication.

This was the pivotal moment where my passions seamlessly converged. The rich historical architecture of the home harmoniously blended with my modern design aesthetic. Each corner adorned with soulful antique objects found over the years, complemented by carefully curated lighting details, imbued the space with a sparkling, unique charm.

Haus of Lawrence is a design firm specializing in interiors and lighting design, founded from my deep passion for design and restoration, curated collections of soulful objects, and expertise in lighting.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

History. Culture. Lighting.

As I’ve grown, I have become increasingly more interested in History and aware of its impacts on design and culture. History provides a deep well of inspiration and context for my design. By studying historical styles, techniques, and materials, I can draw on a rich tapestry of influences to create designs that are both innovative and timeless. Understanding the cultural and historical significance of different design elements allows me to infuse my work with meaning and authenticity. This connection to the past helps me to create designs that resonate on a deeper level, offering a sense of continuity and legacy.

Travel comes with exposure to diverse cultures, landscapes, and design philosophies. Each place I’ve visited offers unique perspectives and aesthetics that has broadened my creative horizons. Experiencing different environments and traditions firsthand has presented new ideas and inspired fresh approaches on my projects. Travel encourages me to step out of my comfort zone, challenge my assumptions, and integrate eclectic influences into my work, resulting in designs that are enriched by a global perspective.

Lighting is a fundamental element in design that profoundly affects how spaces and objects are perceived. The interplay of light and shadow can enhance textures, highlight details, and create moods. Understanding the principles of lighting design allows me to manipulate light to achieve specific effects and atmospheres. Whether natural or artificial, lighting can transform a space, guiding the viewer’s eye and evoking emotional responses. Mastery of lighting enables me to bring my designs to life, adding depth and dimension that elevate the overall impact.

By integrating historical insights, travel experiences, and thoughtful lighting, your designs become more nuanced, versatile, and compelling. These elements together ensure that your work is not only visually striking but also rich in context and meaning.

What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?

The past year has been a whirlwind of change. Leaving my high position at a design firm that specialized in architectural lighting design to start my own firm, Haus of Lawrence, was a bold and challenging decision. Transitioning from architectural lighting to cohesive interior design has presented its own set of challenges and a significant learning curve.

Trusting the process and having faith in myself has been a rollercoaster, but it has always prevailed. There were many times in Haus of Lawrence’s first months that I questioned packing up shop and finding another job. However, as I gained some footing, the path became clearer.

Each challenge faced has been a learning opportunity, pushing me to grow both personally and professionally. The experience has reinforced the importance of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance in the face of uncertainty.

With a solid foundation now in place, I am excited about the future of Haus of Lawrence. The journey has been arduous but incredibly rewarding, and I am committed to continuing to build and expand my firm, drawing on the lessons learned and the strengths developed along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hausoflawrence.com
• Instagram: @hausoflawrence
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenlawrencemeyer/

Image Credits

Portrait – Nick Garcia Photography
Lafayette Steakhouse (Lighting) – Craig Denis Creative
Casa Mariana Photos (Design / Renovation Project) – Daniel Petroni Photography