As my design schooling in Santa Fe was coming to a close, I stepped into an internship at La Puerta Originals—an experience that would shape my career more than I could have imagined. What began as a requirement to gain hands-on industry experience quickly evolved into a masterclass in artistry, history, and craftsmanship that no textbook could match.
Walking into La Puerta Originals for the first time felt like stepping into another era. Their four-acre Antique Yard is a treasure trove of reclaimed wood, architectural artifacts, and historic doors sourced from Mexico, Morocco, Egypt, Pakistan, and beyond. Each piece carried a story etched in its weathered patina, carved into its panels, or preserved in its aged hardware. My role as an intern wasn’t just to observe; it was to learn how to bring those stories to life in custom designs.
During my time there, I worked alongside a team whose skill set was as diverse as the materials they worked with. I saw centuries-old doors transformed into cabinetry, tables, gates, and one-of-a-kind installations. I assisted with client consultations, kept the design library organized, and supported their Project Manager, Christina McGrady, with whatever she needed to keep projects moving smoothly. Working so closely with Christina gave me a front-row seat to her expertise, and she generously shared her knowledge of the technical side of cabinetry and door construction—insights that continue to serve me today.
One of my most vivid memories was walking through the Antique Yard for the first time, surrounded by towering stacks of reclaimed doors, each one weathered by centuries and carrying its own history. I remember running my hands over the textures—smooth in some places, worn and splintered in others—and realizing that every mark told a story. Seeing those pieces transformed into new designs taught me that great interiors start with great materials, and that respect for craftsmanship must always come first.
The experience was more than just developing technical skills, it reshaped how I approach design altogether. I learned that great design is not about chasing trends, but about honoring materials, celebrating history, and crafting spaces that are meant to last. That philosophy became the foundation of my own design practice, influencing the way I select finishes, curate furnishings, and tell a story through a space.
I am deeply grateful to Scott and Melissa Coleman, the visionary owners of La Puerta Originals, for welcoming me into their world of design. And I’ll always appreciate my friend, Christina McGrady, who believed in me enough to convince them to take me on as an intern. Without her encouragement, I might have missed the opportunity that helped launch the designer I am today.
Looking back, my internship at La Puerta Originals wasn’t a stepping stone, it was a cornerstone. It grounded me in the values of quality, authenticity, and timelessness, and gave me the confidence to carry those principles into every project I touch. In many ways, it was the launchpad for the designer I am today and for that, I’ll always be grateful.