Studio Como Salt Lake City showroom manager Lauren Ambuhl’s journey to the world of design is shaped by a deep appreciation for architecture, a curiosity for materials, and a desire to create meaningful spaces.

Originally from the East Coast, Lauren studied architecture and landscape architecture at Clemson University in South Carolina. Her path led her west, first to St. Louis and then to Utah, where she fell in love with the landscape. 

Over time in her career, Lauren realized that rigid city codes and budget-driven decision-making often overshadowed design innovation in the urban planning field. While she admired the principles of sustainability in her work, she longed for a role that allowed for more artistic expression and engagement with forward-thinking design. When Lauren discovered Studio Como, she was intrigued; the name evoked memories of her time studying abroad in Italy, where architecture and craft are revered. Drawn to the intersection of timeless design and contemporary living, she saw an opportunity to merge her analytical background with a more creative, hands-on, client-focused approach. She joined the team in 2023, celebrating her first success that September when the new Salt Lake City showroom opened under her management.

Today, Lauren thrives on the dynamic nature of her work, helping clients create interiors that reflect their lives and aesthetics. With a sharp eye and an ingrained ability to communicate, she brings a fresh perspective — one that blends technical expertise with an intuitive understanding of great design.

Tell us about your history with Studio Como and how you’ve grown in your position.

I started with Studio Como in 2023 when we opened the Salt Lake City showroom, and almost immediately took on a very large, multi-phase, long-term project in Miami. This project has taught me so much about everything needed to succeed in this role: design specifications, client communication, time management. It’s been very rewarding to work on something so big in scope, and see it all come together.

I have a unique role because I get to do all things Salt Lake, while also getting the opportunity to travel quite a bit — both for client projects and to training sessions in Italy. Recently, I’ve started taking on Studio Como’s Jackson market, which is exciting. I’ll be visiting Jackson more often, reaching out to architects and design firms, and building relationships there on behalf of Studio Como. It’s a lot of responsibility, but it’s an amazing opportunity to grow and establish a market.

I’ve also become more involved with installations, which has been an incredible experience. Being hands-on in that final stage of a project and seeing everything come together is really fulfilling.

How would you describe your personality as a design consultant? Why might a client choose to work with you?

I’m a naturally curious person. I like to take a journalistic approach — asking a lot of questions and getting as much insight as I can into a client’s thought process, their needs, and how they’ll use a piece. That helps everyone avoid issues down the road and ensures clients are getting the best possible design solution.

I also think that getting to know clients on a personal level is important. I’ll ask about their interests, their lifestyle, if they have pets, if they love history or art — anything that gives me a better sense of what might inspire them. Even their demeanor when they walk into the store can give me insight into their preferences. A lot of my job is observation. Whether or not a client explicitly states what they like, I can often pick up on subtle hints that guide me toward the right piece for them.

I love the matchmaking process — taking my knowledge of furniture and pairing it with the right person. It’s so satisfying when I find that perfect match. I actually joke that I’ve assigned each of my friends a furniture line and lighting brand based on their personality, whether they know it or not. It’s just how my brain works — I love drawing those connections.

What are some of your favorite pieces in Studio Como’s collection?

I love the Van Rossum Beam Table, which I work at every day in the showroom. It’s made of these massive French oak beams, and the durability is incredible. Even though that specific model is discontinued, I love the craftsmanship of all their pieces. I also appreciate Riva 1920, especially their walnut and oak tables. They fit perfectly with the mountain modern aesthetic, which plays well in places like Jackson, Denver, and Salt Lake City.

I have a Bellhop lamp from FLOS in my home and am hoping to add an Oliver side table from Flexform. I love many lighting pieces from Brokis and Bocci — our lighting lines are all lovely.

B&B Italia is another favorite. I love the history, inventiveness, and how their pieces are instantly recognizable. There’s a timelessness to them that people are naturally drawn to. And then there’s Poltrona Frau — honestly, I could go on forever about my favorite brands.

You studied architecture and landscape architecture before becoming a design consultant. Talk about what it’s like to bridge those worlds by collaborating with architects on jobs.

I’ve been inspired by how architects use local resources and materials, and it’s fascinating to hear their perspective. I love diving into research on my own, reading local publications, and staying informed about what’s happening in design.

On a practical level, working with architects influences the furnishings. For example, if an architect is using a specific wood paneling in a home, we might choose a table that contrasts or complements that material. Those details matter, and it’s exciting to collaborate and make sure everything comes together seamlessly.

One project that stands out was a collaboration with an architect in Jackson. He would send us renderings, and we had to make sure the furnishings fit into the design. It required a lot of back-and-forth, considering materials, colors, and daily use. We had to make sure things were not just aesthetically right, but also practical. It was a great experience because I learned so much about how small details—like choosing a table material based on how much wear it will get—can make or break a design.

Where do you draw creative inspiration or motivation from?

Nature is a huge inspiration for me, especially now that I’m living in Utah. The mountains, color palettes of the sunsets, aspen groves—there’s so much beauty here. Even just driving to work, I see stunning landscapes that inspire me.

I also love fashion and contemporary art, which is why I’m drawn to B&B Italia. And I have a deep appreciation for history, especially the design trends of the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. I love how furniture and fashion seem to cycle every 30 years—we’re seeing a strong resurgence of the ‘70s aesthetics right now. That connection between past and present is something I find exciting.

What’s unique about working for Studio Como?

I actually get to do a lot more design work than I initially expected. I was prepared for a sales role—and was excited about selling beautiful, architectural pieces—but it’s turned out to be so much more than that. I work closely with designers and am relied on to answer a lot of technical questions. I regularly use AutoCAD and Adobe to build renderings and boards and make presentations.

One of my favorite things about my job is the level of trust I build with clients. Sometimes I’ll get only a few photos from a designer and be able to send them a full proposal with lighting and furniture selections that fit their existing style. Over time, I start to understand what brands they like and what works for their projects, which allows me to make their lives easier. It’s a highly collaborative and fulfilling process.

What motivates you when you’re working on a project?

Honestly, it’s the people. This job is very design-oriented, but at the end of the day, it’s all about communication. Building relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and making their vision come to life is what drives me. The technical skills are important, but they come second to listening and making connections. That’s what makes this job so rewarding.

Thank you, Lauren!