Lisa Lombardy
“I believe every design we develop has a distinct story, which we assist in crafting with our clients, and that space becomes our canvas, one where we have the unique ability to communicate through them, in ways that words cannot express.”
ArchNative, meet Lisa Lombardy!
Lisa Lombardy is the Studio Creative Director and a Managing Associate at TPG Architecture. A Drexel University alumna, Lisa has dedicated the majority of her career to the firm—rising through the ranks from Design Director to her current leadership role.
We had the pleasure of speaking with Lisa about what first drew her to TPG and what has kept her inspired for over 18 years. She shared insights into her current role, how the industry has transformed throughout her career, and what long-term success means to her.
Tell us a little bit about your first introduction to Architecture/Design. What made you want to pursue it as a career?
During my freshman year of high school, I took an interior design elective and was so intrigued by my professor that I took it for the next four years. She took us through the history of interiors, teaching us the terminology and ultimately what it takes to put a project/space together. I realized that being an interior designer has so many facets and outlets that you can take your career in any direction you desire. With that, I pursued my degree in college and upon graduation accepted a job with a residential design firm. Realizing that wasn’t necessarily for me, I landed at TPG and was fortunate to have been mentored by some of the most talented directors and designed some amazing spaces for interesting clients. I’ve been there ever since!
What initially drew you to the firm and what has kept you engaged as an employee over the past 18 years?
What initially drew me to the firm was its commitment to designing spaces that are not only functional, but also thoughtful reflections of each client’s identity and purpose. The idea that we don’t impose a singular design style, but instead tailor our approach to align with the unique needs, brand, and culture of every client, really resonated with me as a designer. Eighteen years later, what keeps me engaged is that same creative freedom and the opportunity to approach each project with fresh perspective. I’m fortunate to work with an amazing team that I can mentor, collaborate with, and help guide in creating incredible spaces for our clients. I’ve reached a point in my career where I want to see my studio members shine, carve their own path, and shape their future. Knowing that I’ve played a part in helping them do that makes every moment worthwhile.
What does your current role as Studio Creative Director entail?
I work closely with our clients, leading design conversations and making sure our approach remains intentional and specific to their needs. Internally, I mentor and support our designers, encouraging them to take ownership, think critically, and grow into leaders themselves. It's a balance of creative leadership, team development, and maintaining a clear, strategic design direction across all our work.
Tell us a bit about your creative process when you approach a new project?
I have always seen the world through a creative lens – drawn to the beauty of my surroundings, the people I meet, and the experiences I have, all of which help shape and develop my perspective to create the design story that I want to tell. My creative process on any new project really encompasses all of this. I believe every design we develop has a distinct story, which we assist in crafting with our clients, and that space becomes our canvas, one where we have the unique ability to communicate through them, in ways that words cannot express.
What does success look like to you? How do you deal with/move forward from failure?
To me, success means creating a design solution for my clients that truly reflects who they are. It’s when a space expresses and supports the client’s culture and goals—that’s when I know we’ve done our job well. Success also means watching our team grow, contribute, and take pride in the work they’re doing. When we create places people are excited to be in, and when our designers feel ownership in that process, that’s a win. Differences in opinion are part of the creative process, and I try to see it as a learning opportunity. We’re not here to force our vision—we’re here to find the right solution for the client. Every misstep is a chance to get closer to that solution and to grow as a team.
How do you see the industry evolving within the next 10 years?
I see the industry evolving within the next 10 years by continuing to push design to the limits. We are still living in a world with a hybrid workplace and need to navigate how office space should feel, look, and inspire, along with being lucrative. With that, we as designers are embracing the technologies, such as AI, to assist and enhance our creative thoughts. It truly is a connection of human detailed skill and the innovations that technologies have to offer.
What has been the most inspiring project that you have worked on? Why?
The most inspiring project I’ve had the privilege to work on was the headquarters for LiveOn NY. This organization plays a critical role in supporting organ and tissue donation—a mission that quite literally gives people a second chance at life. This project felt deeply meaningful because it wasn’t just about designing an office; it was about creating a space that could embody the purpose and compassion behind the organization’s work.
In your practice, you focus on purpose-driven spaces that promote wellness. Tell us a little bit about this focus and how it influences the projects that you work on?
When people feel cared for and supported in their workplace, it naturally cultivates a stronger, more engaged culture. We recognize that no two people work the same way, so we intentionally design spaces supporting collaboration and quiet focus. This flexibility empowers individuals to work in ways that suit their unique needs, enhancing productivity, creativity, and overall satisfaction. Ultimately, designing with wellness in mind means creating spaces that feel good to be in, where people are energized, connected, and supported. That philosophy is a central pillar of every project I work on.
What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?
My advice is to be strong, confident, and stand by your decisions. Your work and actions will speak for themselves, and that respect will come. Build connections, learn from those you meet along the way, and get involved—our industry has so much to offer. Most importantly, always stay true to yourself.
All photos courtesy of TGP Architecture