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AWA+D Featured Member: Lisa Landworth

As a registered architect and partner of Landworth DeBolske Associates, Lisa Landworth is a Los Angeles trailblazer. Armed with an architectural degree from USC, Lisa and her partner founded their practice in 1986 and have completed projects throughout Southern California that include architecture, landscape architecture and interior design services. As the architect responsible for the renovation and adaptive reuse of Elysian, site of AWA+D’s June 9th Toast & Jam Symposium, AWA+D wanted to gather some additional insights on this long-time member.

What inspired your design of Elysian?

“Elysian” was originally three separate small industrial buildings used for the manufacturing of molds for porcelain products. Our project in 2003 was to convert the buildings into a live/work space for our clients who had previously lived in a New York loft and wanted the California version of that.

What are you currently working on?

Single family residential projects, both new construction efforts and remodels. We are also designing multifamily communities, nationally.

What is your medium of choice?

The medium for my initial design ideas for a project is still “old school” with a pencil; I prefer the direct brain to hand connection versus a computer. My favorite art medium is collage; I guess that’s why I find remodel work so intriguing.

What do you do when you’re seeking inspiration?

Besides books, magazines, travel and art workshops, I especially enjoy gardening since it allows me to interact with and shape physical space in an ongoing way.

What was a turning point in your career?

After graduating from architectural school I worked for a number of years in several corporate architectural firms and realized that was not what I wanted. I teamed up with USC classmates, Donna Brown (who now has her own architectural practice in Seattle, Washington) and Philip DeBolske, who were also disenchanted with their corporate experiences. We formed a partnership in 1986 which allowed us creative freedom and collaboration.

Who are your favorite women architects or designers?

Favorite architects include Julia Morgan, Lutah Maria Riggs, Gae Aulenti, Maya Lin and Jeanne Gang. I also like all the work of the landscape architects featured in the documentary film “Women in the Dirt”.

Where is your favorite place to be alone?

Sketching or painting in my garden.

Where is your favorite place to be with others?

Hollywood Bowl, LACMA jazz concerts, Santa Monica mountain hiking, I love picnics!

What is your favorite thing about LA?

The outdoor lifestyle, and on a “good day” everything is 20 minutes away.

What are your favorite websites?

Curbed LA, San Fernando Valley Relics, Vintage LA and I try to stay away from eBay.