There’s a certain magic to the simple moments of holiday preparation—the sparkle of lights, the warm glow of candles, the careful selection of gifts for loved ones. These traditions are a small reminder of a bigger principle: the most meaningful things take time, thought, and care. As I reflect on this year, I see parallels between preparing for the
holidays and navigating the challenges of our industry and life. The wrapping paper might get crumpled, a bulb might burn out, and the strand of lights might become twisted and knotted, but the process is a reminder to stay flexible with the challenges and approach, slow down to appreciate the moment, and keep moving toward the vision. In the end, it will all come together beautifully.
As the year draws to a close, I’ve gathered insights from several key voices in the industry, reflecting on the lessons they’ve learned in 2024. I’m thrilled to share their perspectives, offering a fresh take on timeless wisdom to carry into the new year.
Eric Holland, Senior Principal at OTJ Architects
“2024 is a year that has challenged our industry and our firm to perform with greater agility than ever. In the face of an uncertain market, projects went on hold unexpectedly while others materialized equally unexpectedly. We became increasingly flexible in terms of scheduling, staffing, and design operations in order to continue to meet the needs of our clients and adjust to workload fluctuations. 2024 was a year when, more than ever, we learned the value of “going with the flow to make it work!”
Steven Burgos, Director of Design, Interiors at HOK
“For me, this was the year of cross-pollination- borrowing the “best of” and infusing into different project types. When you bring different perspectives and ideas to the table it can yield new, unexpected and richer outcomes that underscore the superpower we hold as designers, especially as our projects get more complex. It has been exciting to see our projects and people evolve with this mindset.”
Libby Gillen, Vice President, Design Segment at Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering
“Take time to appreciate and reflect on things that make you joyful. I’ve been practicing monotasking, doing a singular task for a set amount of time, which allows me to be more focused, intentional and retain more information. I practice this when eating lunch at least twice a week. I silence my phone (yes, that’s correct, no scrolling social media) and engage in the experience of eating while enjoying every bite without distractions.”
These reflections from industry leaders paint a picture of 2024 as a year marked by agility, synthesis, and intentionality. These qualities are essential to navigate today’s evolutions within the workplace, technology, design, and human experience. These insights show how adapting to an uncertain market, the growing complexity of projects, blending diverse perspectives, and staying mindful and intentional with time can yield meaningful growth.
My 2024 ‘word of the year’ or guiding principle was “vision.” To me, it was important to have clarity of vision for my family and career, especially when the path may seem foggy or hard to navigate. The word “vision” embodies clarity, ambition, and focus to plan with purpose. Vision isn’t about seeing the future—it’s about finding direction in the present and aligning actions with long-term goals despite the fog or obstacles. Or to quote Finding Nemo (one of the best Disney movies): “Just. Keep. Swimming.”
In my personal life, this meant ensuring meaningful connection and intentionality in my roles as a wife, mother, and friend, while balancing a professional life with new responsibilities and demands. In my career, “vision” has meant staying true to my values of people and purpose while boldly charting a new career path (see last month’s column). It’s no easy feat, but a lesson in perseverance and staying true to oneself personally and professionally. In time, it all comes together – sometimes messy and unexpected, but generally beautifully.
Wherever you find yourself this December, I hope the wisdom of Holland, Burgos, and Gillen reminds us all to go with the flow, embrace diverse ideas and perspectives, find joy in the moment, and maintain clarity of vision for the future. To close out this year, I hope that your wrapping paper stays crisp, your bulbs keep glowing, and your strand of lights unwind smoothly. And if things don’t turn out quite as planned—literally or metaphorically—remember these words: “Just. Keep. Swimming.”
Maria VanDeman, NCIDQ, Ind. IIDA, is an interior designer, published children’s book author, advocate for equity in the workplace, and Director of Design Strategy at OFS. With a passion for helping people and designing for human needs, Maria strives to make a positive impact on the world through her work and mentorship. Connect with Maria on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mariavandeman