interview and photo by Beth Ellen

Name: Lourdes “Luly” Gonzalez

Age: 28

Occupation: Environmental designer and owner of Alembic Studio

How did you get into architecture? It all started with party planning...that’s a long story. But the connection, I’ve found, between party planning and architecture is communication and creative problem solving. It also serves as my medium to give back and work towards solutions to the big problems our society is facing.

How did it feel when you realized your company was actually making it? Saying that I have made it is still a bit of a stretch. I can say it feels empowering to merely aspire as an independent businesswoman and see that the hard work is starting to pay off.

What do you like about fall? Fall is the only season, for me, that has a distinctive aroma. Don’t ask me to describe it. It smells like fall! And not to mention the colors. It’s always been my favorite color scheme; warm earth tones.

What do you do to stay warm? Huddle around the fireplace with my three basset hounds.

What is your favorite fall accessory? A long cozy sweater.