More than just a pretty space

“There are a lot of women in the design industry – but having worked in an architecture firm and being on site a lot, a women’s expertise is often dismissed,” Bauman says. “I make it a priority to be as educated as I can with my contract documents and when speaking to other consultants. I deserve respect and to be taken seriously - I know I am very good at my job.” 

Bauman finds inspiration to grow and build on her success from her family. The support of her family strengthens her determination to provide and be better every day. Eventually, she hopes to retire her husband. 

“I love what I do. I hope to still be designing when I’m 80 – I can’t see myself ever quitting,” Bauman says. “I truly believe that when a woman sets her mind to something, you can’t stop her. Can we have it all? Well, if you don’t want it all, what’s the point?” 

Confidence comes with time and experience. For career-minded women with ambitions to start their own business, Bauman encourages you to find what your passion is, go after it and don’t stop. 

Amber Bauman loves the challenge of transforming a room. From residential homes in need of a refresh to clinics and offices looking to enhance their functionality and improve their workplaces, Grey Pearl Interior Design has built a solid reputation from a diverse portfolio of satisfied clients. 

Bauman has certainly paid her dues and invested in her career. She studied interior design at the Art Institute of Vancouver and graduated with honours in 2008. She is also certified by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), which demonstrates a practicing interior designer has the experience, skill and ability to satisfy a client’s needs and resources. 

“I’ve always wanted to be in charge of the work I do and who I build relationships with,” explains Bauman. “But I also understood that work experience was extremely important. I was with a small design firm for 10 years before I started my own business in 2018. After starting my family, sole proprietorship felt like the natural next step.” 

Interior designers typically work with architects, engineers and construction laborers to determine how an interior space functions and flows. Bauman acknowledges that her profession can be a bit of a boy’s club. 

Women can have it all - if they want to. 

Amber Bauman, Grey Pearl Interior Design believes -

“Sometimes we need to stop and ask ourselves ‘what would a man do?’ because women tend to care so much about the needs of others. We’re often putting ourselves and our wants and dreams last,” Bauman says. “Care less about what people think. Set boundaries and give yourself the space and grace to make mistakes. The world is slowly changing to make room for women in leadership, but no one is going to hand it to us. After all, behind every successful woman, is herself.”  

Reposted from Mint Magazine 

“I truly believe that when a woman sets her mind to something, you can’t stop her. Can we have it all? Well, if you don’t want it all, what’s the point?”