LPF Rising Star - Stella Noble at David Collins Studio
In an industry rife with gender disparities, The LPF is committed to positive change, empowering women and making the industry better for the next generation. In celebration of International Women’s Month, The LPF is shining a spotlight on our rising female stars, recognising their talent and potential while addressing systemic challenges for women in the industry. Among these trailblazers and an LPF Rising Star is Stella Noble, Designer at David Collins Studio
In the interview that follows, we delve into Stella’s experiences, shedding light on her journey and need to make the luxury property industry more inclusive and equitable future for the next generation of women.
Stella Noble
Designer at David Collins Studio
Stella Noble is a shining example of a rising star in the luxury property industry. Nominated by Siobhan Kelly, Associate Director at David Collins Studio, she shares that with her having over a decade of experience in interior design, Stella, with three years at David Collins Studio, exemplifies a pursuit of excellence. Noteworthy projects include the Londoner Hotel in Macau and Fontainebleau, Las Vegas. Stella's talent shone in a complex private home project, where she played a central role in creating over a hundred custom furniture pieces and refining interior architecture. Her meticulous attention to detail, positive approach, and commitment to pushing luxury design boundaries make Stella a valuable asset. As a mentor, she contributes to team development, earning her nomination as a Rising Star, poised to make lasting contributions to the industry.
Hi Stella, so great to have you here. Please could you tell us about your proudest career moment so far?
There have been many proud moments in my career - I've been very lucky. And seeing a project open has to be one of the best feelings as a designer. But saying that, a real highlight was when I completed my first big project with Selfridges. We had an excellent team, from designers to client project managers to contractors, who communicated well and worked with each other smoothly. When it opened, we all were just so proud of what we accomplished and the relationships we built with each other. It taught me the importance of constant communication, on-site problem solving, and flexibility in design to execute an overall vision that I take with me to my projects now.
Have you faced moments of doubt in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Oh definitely. Sometimes my creative side just doesn't feel like working as efficiently as my technical side, and it can take me many iterations to get to something I'm happy with. My career has been a fluctuation of having confidence and feeling out of my depth, but looking back I realise they were all growth moments. Gaining confidence has come from confiding my worries with other women in the workplace, leaning on each other for support - because I feel we suffer from imposter syndrome more than the men in similar roles.
What do you think are the main challenges women face in the luxury property industry, and how can they be addressed?
There are a few challenges that disproportionately affect women in the luxury property industry - two of which are under representation in leadership and the strains of work-life balance, especially for women who are also mothers. For the former, its true that design-side and client-side we tend to see more men in the upper management/director roles, and thus women can be sidelined or not spoken to directly when it comes to managing projects. Because of this, the industry may feel more inclined to trust a man running a project than a woman. In my experience this is just not the case - and some of the best project managers I have ever worked with are women.
For the latter - a flexible workplace is key. My current company, David Collins Studio, has really championed this thinking. We have flexible core hours, a balance of work from home days vs in office days, and an excellent policy of not making mothers feel guilty for time off due to childcare reasons such as sickness. I feel confident that my work and ability is not overlooked due to needing to care for my child - but I know this is not industry standard. It should be!
Who has been your biggest supporter, and how have they empowered you?
My husband has always been my biggest supporter - I know thats cliche! He has been there for me throughout my career - since the beginning almost. He's helped me prep for every interview, listened as I rehearsed nearly every big presentation (which, bless him he's a politics teacher he has no clue what I'm talking about), and has only ever been excited for me to travel to site. Its always worth while coming home and knowing he's there to support through a bad day - and as he can't really comment on design, he thinks everything I do is amazing (even when all I see are flaws)..
Reflecting on your journey, what advice would you give to young women starting their careers?
Keep going through the tough bits. It's completely normal to lose your confidence, and regain it again - it doesn't mean you are not good at your job, just learning. Lean on others, women, friends in the industry who uplift and empower you, and remember every new day is a great day to try again.
Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future?
Is it boring to say more of the same? Its so hard to predict the future. I am enjoying my position, my experiences, and learning from the amazing people in my team. I just want to keep doing it better with each project that comes my way.
About The LPF Rising Stars Initiative
In the landscape of luxury property, where challenges often intersect with opportunities, The LPF stands as a force for positive change focussing on empowerment and championing the next generation of female leaders. Through initiatives aimed at promoting, supporting, and protecting women in the industry, we are committed to fostering an environment where talent flourishes regardless of gender. The LPF has a mission to send the elevator down for aspiring female leaders and creating pathways to success. We hope to get to a point that every woman entering the luxury property sector is equipped with the opportunities, resources, and support needed to thrive.
By amplifying the voices of the LPF rising stars and providing platforms for mentorship and growth, we hope to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. We invite the entire industry to uphold these values, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion at every turn. In empowering women, we not only enrich our industry but also pave the way for a brighter tomorrow, where every individual has the opportunity to shine.
Get in touch
You may get in touch with Stella Noble or David Collins Studio by referring to the details below:
Stella Noble
Connect with Stella via LinkedIn or by sending her an email at stella.noble@davidcollins.studio
David Collins Studio
The Studio, 74 Farm Lane
London, SW6 1QA