Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariel Graves-Wake.
Hi Ariel, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born in Detroit but moved to Phoenix early in my childhood. I ended up staying in Arizona for grade school and college, which is where I discovered my passion for interior design. Funny enough, interior design wasn’t actually my original plan; I was initially studying cinematography. I guess you could say I was always destined to end up in a creative field.
While taking an art class for an elective, my professor asked if I’d ever considered architecture or design. I hadn’t, but he encouraged me to try a design class as an elective. The following semester, I needed an extra class to keep my scholarship, so I took his advice—and that completely changed my trajectory.
From there, I became a full-time design student, landed an internship with a high-end residential firm, eventually found my way into commercial design, and completed my qualification to become a registered interior designer. I am currently working as the Director of Design at a local commerical firm where we do work all over the country.
I try to put my passion for design aside from time to time and picked up a few hobbies in other creative outlets like modeling, arts and crafts, and different sports. I also love to travel which i also get to do for work- so it’s a win win.
I really love challenging myself to try new things and keep growing.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have been plenty of challenges along the way…but my biggest hardship happened when I first started design school. My sister was stationed away in the military and my mom fell really ill; so I took on the role of becoming her full-time caregiver. Looking back, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I had an amazing support team from family and friends (and friends that are more like family).
I was fortunate to have my mom by my side through school, but while I was studying for my license, we lost her. At that point, it became my personal mission to accomplish everything I set my mind to. I wanted to make her proud—and I still do; but through that process, I’ve also learned how to make myself proud.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m still very much immersed in the design world, working as the Director of Design at a local commercial firm. We specialize in various markets, including multifamily and hospitality. What makes our company really unique is that we actually custom fabricate what we design. Since our projects take us all over the country, it definitely keeps me busy! Overall, I’m most proud of the opportunities I’ve been given so far. I’m nowhere near the peak of my career, but I’m keeping the momentum going, and I’m really excited to see where it takes me!
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I think it depends on who you ask, haha! In my professional life, people are usually pretty surprised when they learn random facts about me; like that I have a fraternal twin sister, or that I grew up practicing in martial arts. I think when it comes to my family and friends, they’ve learned to expect the unexpected from me- so nothing surprises them anymore. (In the best way)
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariel.gw__?igsh=MTY0OWJ1ZWNhMGZ3OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariel-graves-wake-rid-ncidq-08954a188/
