Grace Pasquini
Grace Pasquini is an accomplished showroom manager and interior designer at Tile & Light Art of Durango, where she has built a reputation for combining artistic vision with exceptional customer service. With over five years of experience in interior design and nearly a decade in the fine arts industry, she has developed expertise in residential and commercial home finishes, specializing in countertops, tile, lighting, and overall interior design solutions. She leads a talented design team, guiding clients from concept to completion while ensuring a seamless and personalized experience on the showroom floor.
Grace’s professional journey began with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Art Business as well as minoring in Art History from Fort Lewis College. Inspired by mentors in the fine arts community, she pursued further training in interior design through the New York Institute of Art & Design. Her early experiences in gallery sales and customer service shaped her approach to design, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building, attention to detail, and delivering tailored solutions that meet each client’s unique vision.
Beyond her work at Tile & Light Art of Durango, Grace actively contributes to her local design community. She served on the Durango Parade of Homes committee, helping coordinate the annual event that connects builders, designers, and the public. Grace has also played a key role in her company’s recognition as their representative at the prestigious Lighting Showroom of the Year Awards held at the Dallas Market Center, presented by Furniture, Lighting & Decor magazine and multiple Best of Durango & La Plata County winner awards, reflecting her dedication to excellence in both design and client service.
• Fort Lewis College - BA
• Company Representative as Showroom of the Year Finalists
• Company Representative as Best of Durango & LaPlata Co Winner
• Durango Parade of Homes Committee
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance and mentorship I received from artist and sales woman Karyn Gabaldon, who gave me my first professional opportunity at her fine arts gallery and inspired me to pursue a career in interior design. As well as my current mentors Jackie & Paul Beasley who have helped me to achieve a number of personal and professional goals while under their expert tutelage in the design world.
Having benefited so greatly from mentorship myself, I now make it a priority to mentor new designers, helping them explore the industry and discover their own passions within art & design. I firmly believe that fostering growth and curiosity in others is as important as pursuing excellence in my own work.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Keep growing your knowledge and actively pursuing the things that genuinely interest and inspire you. Allow yourself to follow the paths that spark curiosity and bring you fulfillment.
And remember: if something isn’t working for you—whether it’s a goal, a habit, or a direction you once thought was right—don’t be afraid to adjust, evolve, or completely change course. Progress isn’t about staying rigid; it’s about staying true to yourself while continuing to learn and adapt along the way.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to any new designer entering the field is to take the time to discover your unique voice and niche within the industry. Design is a vast and ever-changing landscape, and the most fulfilling path is often found in the areas that truly excite you. Lean into the aspects of design that fuel your creativity and let those passions guide your development.
Remember that every project and every client will bring a new set of challenges—and that’s a gift. Each experience gives you the chance to learn something new, refine your process, and broaden your capabilities. Embrace experimentation, stay curious, and allow yourself to grow alongside the work you create. Over time, the combination of your skills, style, and enthusiasm will shape a career that feels not only successful, but genuinely rewarding.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my professional and personal life are rooted in community engagement and a strong dedication to excellence. I am passionate about customer service and have built my career around empowering individuals to reach their goals—whatever their unique dreams may entail. I believe that every interaction is an opportunity to foster trust, provide support, and make a positive difference.
Throughout my experiences, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to meaningful contribution—whether through collaboration, innovative problem-solving, or simply showing up with integrity and care. I take pride in upholding the highest standards of quality, ensuring that the people I serve feel valued, understood, and confident in the work we achieve together. Ultimately, I strive to create impact not only within my industry but also within the broader communities I’m part of—championing service, connection, and professional excellence in everything I do.