Mancini Duffy Strengthens Its Seattle Operations with Kara Schmidt-Robben's Leadership
Mancini Duffy, a national design firm recognized for its century-long expertise in architecture and interior design, has officially expanded its footprint in Seattle by appointing Kara Schmidt-Robben as the new Studio Director at its regional office located within Rainier Square. This strategic move signifies the firm’s commitment to cultivating a strong presence in a city that pulses with creativity and innovation.
In a statement, Lauren Maxted, the Director of Marketing and Business Development, along with her role as Principal of the Seattle office, expressed excitement about the growth opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. "The expansion into Seattle fuses the dynamic nature of a startup with the extensive knowledge and resources unique to Mancini. We are crafting something new and exhilarating while remaining rooted in the established values of innovation and excellence that define us. Kara’s extensive experience will be instrumental in shaping a team that aligns with our vision," she noted.
Kara Schmidt-Robben brings an impressive portfolio to Mancini, having previously led significant workplace design projects in the area, including high-profile assignments for Rover's headquarters and Fluke's campus. Schmidt-Robben's leadership history includes serving as President of the Northern Pacific Chapter of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), where she was a vocal advocate for both design excellence and industry representation.
"Joining Mancini in Seattle to enhance our service offerings and design solutions is a thrilling opportunity for me," said Schmidt-Robben. She emphasized the firm's focus on creating tailored environments that resonate with client needs while connecting seamlessly to the local surroundings. Her leadership is expected to be pivotal as Mancini enhances its operational footprint in the region.
As the Seattle office plays a crucial role in Mancini's ongoing expansion into vibrant, design-focused markets, it is currently spearheading several hospitality projects, including significant work on the Concourse C expansion at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac). This endeavor underscores the firm's unwavering commitment to innovative design solutions that exceed client expectations.
Mancini Duffy, with over a century of experience, adopts a tech-savvy approach to design. The firm is headquartered in New York City, supported by various regional offices across New Jersey, Arizona, Washington, Florida, and other states. Mancini excels in a range of sectors, including healthcare, education, and professional services, continually aiming to solve complex challenges creatively and efficiently.
In a closing statement, Christian Giordano, President and Co-owner of Mancini, highlighted the importance of the Seattle market. "The expansion reflects our strategic commitment to innovate and enhance our client relationships. With leaders like Kara and Lauren, we are positioned to showcase our exceptional project delivery and tech-savvy solutions that align with our passion for good design."
As Mancini Duffy forges ahead in Seattle, the firm is poised to blend its rich legacy with fresh, innovative ideas, creating spaces that not only reflect great design but also foster connectivity and community engagement within the region.