We had the good fortune of connecting with Pam Lamaster-Millett and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pam, why did you pursue a creative career?
Growing up I was always making things, either on my own, or with my mom or Grandmother. I think I was drawn to a creative field because I wanted to be connected in some way to the craft of making. There is so much that go into making a space, from the structure itself, down to the furnishings, it’s like an endless opportunity for creativity.

In particular, I’ve always been drawn to spaces more than objects, because you can enter/occupy them. The experience, from the outside to within, and how you engage with each over time, stretches out the experience. I like that space has the ability to create memories. What could be more artistic!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
We have a close-nit practice at SLH. Our design process if very client focused, and learning all we can about each new client is always exciting. It is the uniqueness of them and their sites that inspire the designs. I think that is why we are, after close to 30 years, still working at new designs. Of course it is challenging for us to define what our “brand” is with the diverse portfolio we have. There is not a defined style that is searchable, and so we focus our process as a design journey we take with our clients.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am a huge fan of Chicago’s downtown Loop. A couple of weekends ago I had the gift of a day with just my daughter and I. We took the Brown Line El to the Loop and did some shopping on State Street. We had a classic lunch at The Walnut Room in the historic Marshall Field’s building. There are so many special details in that building, I could spend all day. Then we did a little walking, just taking in the urban, and capped it with dinner at The Bergoff. I’m not sure she completely got the story about Gloria Steinem have a drink at the bar… but someday…

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My late grandmother, Elmalee “Lee” Barr. The longer I practice, the more I see how she influenced my desire to design, and general zeal for life. She loved to craft, and decorate, and entertain – and approached even her monthly card party with family in a very intentional way. I guess I could describer her as a sort of low budget, pre-Martha Stewart. Who, don’t laugh – I also love. Obviously the design work at our office has a more modern aesthetic than my grandma, or Martha, but at the root of it, there is intension, and a respect for the art of the making, I think Lee would love to throw a card party in any of our projects. (And maybe Martha could come too!)

Website: www.searlarch.com

Instagram: searllamasterhowe

Linkedin: Pam Lamaster-Millett

Image Credits
Tony Soluri; Cynthia Lynn; Kendall McCaugherty; Mark Schepker; Aimee Mazzenga

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