After graduating with a BFA in Interior Design from the New York Institute of Technology in 1983, Lauren Brady-Russell’s career began at Norman Harvey Associates. As an Assistant Designer merchandising model homes for builders and developers, she learned the nuances of incorporating good interior design with real estate marketing. In short order, she was promoted to Senior Designer, and by 1988, Brady-Russell a Vice President and Director of Design supervising a team of twenty designers.
In 1992, Brady-Russell launched LBR Design Collaborative, Ltd. After her first large-scale project, the renovation of an historic hotel and conference center in New Jersey, numerous Country Clubs renovations followed. With each successfully completed project, LBR Design Collaborative’s reputation was solidified. Projects have included various multi-family dwellings, retirement facilities, public spaces, lobbies, corridors, corporate environments, restaurants, and high-end residences. The firm continues to produce inviting and functional high-quality living, working, and gathering spaces that enhance the human experience.
In addition to managing LBR Design Collaborative, Brady-Russell belongs to NEWH, Network of Executive Women in Hospitality; IIDA, Associate Member of International Interior Design Association; and IDEC, Associate Member of Interior Design Educators Council. She regularly participates in industry-related conferences and seminars, and attends charity events that benefit the design community and help fund scholarships.
Recent Projects/Research
- Renovation & Design of Sisters of St. Dominic Motherhouse, Amityville, NY built in 1876 for Active Seniors Retirement Facility including all F,F&E procurement
- Renovation of 5,000 sq. ft. Residential Penthouse on Fifth Avenue overlooking Central Park
- Renovation of Corporate Offices for Clare Rose Inc, Melville, NY
- Interior Design & F,F&E procurement of Beacon Hill Country Club, Atlantic Highlands, NJ
- Design/Build Renovation of 2500 sq. ft. Residential SFD in Merrick, NY
Publications
- Tri-State Real Estate Journal, Dimensions Magazine “Success or Failure? How to Avoid Mistakes in Model Merchandising”; Spring 1989
- Builder Magazine “Saving Grace”; September 2002
- House Magazine “Pezza Residence”; June 1999
Honors and Awards
- LIBI Diamond Award – Clubhouse Design "Brookview Gardens" Clubhouse, Deer Park, NY for Wilder Balter Partners
- NAHB Silver Award – Active Adult Housing, "Chatfield Farms," Andover Model, Beacon Falls, CT for Wyndham Homes
- NAHB Best In American Living Award – Model Home Design "Harbors at Haverstraw," Haverstraw, NY, Darlington Model for Ginsburg Development Corp.
- NAHB Best In American Living Award – Model Home Design "Kensington Woods," New Rochelle, NY, Eton Model for Ginsburg Development Corp.
Courses Taught at New York Tech
- DSGN 362: History of Interiors I
- DSGN 363: History of Interiors II
- DSGN 262: Color In Space
- DSGN 223: Materials II