Today we’d like to introduce you to Judith Arroyo.
Judith, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
At a very short age, I inherited a passion for art from my grandfather: Saul Arrazola. He was an outstanding painter, an avid reader, and a great family man. I remember our long evening conversations while he was gardening. We discussed the shapes of the clouds and how we could paint them with watercolor, about shapes and shadows, the correct use of graphite and pencils. I believe I was around 6 years old when he gave me my first triangular scale ruler. We read, we drew, we painted and we drank hot cocoa.
I still remember the first time I took him to my college: La Salle School of Architecture where I proudly showed him the scaled model of my creation that was on display for a student exhibit. Sadly, my grand dad and mentor passed away before he could watch me become an Architect.
I graduated with honors and began working in the construction field, I can perfectly recall the time when I stood on the roof of Emerald Tower (a skyscraper located in the heart of Mexico City Business area) with that sense of pride and accomplishment to be a part of such large scaled project. I also was very fortunate to work under the supervision of Salomon Helfon (Helfon Architects) who became a great mentor and role model for my career as an Architect. A few years later, my dad passed away, followed by my mom whose broken heart didn’t have the strength to fight cancer that consumed her after my dad’s passing.
I started my own design firm in Mexico City: AMB Architects. (Arroyo- Monteon Batalla Architects) and was fortunate to design and build a few restaurants, 2 nightclubs and what I consider to be my one of the most important milestones in my career: Moran 112 Condos. I transformed my parent’s house, the house where I grew up in a 12 condo building. Right after the completion of this project, I decided to move to The Woodlands making it my home for 12 years now. This is where I saw my oldest son graduate from CP HS and my youngest to become a successful 15-year-old soccer player and student.
A few years after I settled in Texas, I started CODE Comfort Design Studio LLC and had the privilege to work design a great hidden gem nestled in downtown Houston: La Calle Tacos and Cantina. This place has been awarded not only for its outstanding food but also for the whole experience in which the design elements and decoration transport you to a Mexico City street taco place.
About 6 years ago, I met who would become my awesome business partner and one of my best friends, the incredibly talented Gerty Portillo. As soon as I met her, I was captivated by her sparkle and glittery personality. I also remember how impressed I was learning about her design firm Decore & More and the successful projects she had under her sleeve. About 2 years ago, when we reconnected and started talking about building a partnership. This was one of the biggest moves of my career. It is amazing how two very opposite personalities can complement and shape a great business.
In July 2017, we opened the doors of Decore & More Design Studio, located in the back of The Woodlands on FM 1488, Magnolia TX. We have successfully grown our business and helped home and small business owners to “create the spaces of their dreams”
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Who doesn’t find bumpy roads? They can be fun, exciting and scary. I love my job and career but above everything, I am a mom first. Being able to balance the life of a designer and a single mom of 2 young men and Thea (my beloved westie dog) has been a challenge. I must confess that there are nights where I would cry my eyes out of exhaustion, but in the end, all the efforts have paid off. Being away from home, friends and family is hard sometimes. Loneliness and homesickness are a bit challenging. But life is not easy and we still need to chin up and move forward.
The construction field is still dominated by men. Some of them would not feel comfortable taking orders from a woman (especially if you add a strong accent to the equation). I have to be strong, I have to be confident and I have to outsmart the guys. I tremendously enjoy posting pictures of our accomplishments using the hashtag #WCW of Women Crush Wednesday. I also love to support other women businesswoman, hear their stories and celebrate their accomplishments.
My advice would be: Praise God every day. Put your family first always, find balance. Do not let anyone pull you down. Know your worth. Keep your strength. Love yourself however you are, believe you are strong and confident. Feel pretty and happy, You won’t find success if you are not happy.
What should we know about Decore & More Design Studio? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Decore & More Design Studio was created to satisfy all of our customers’ design needs. We are much more than a remodeling firm. We are a team of design professionals who will listen to your needs, desires, likes and your way of living to create a tailored space just for you! From a single room to a home or a commercial space, we will address every aspect of your project: architectural, interior design, custom furniture, fabrics, color palettes and art. We are committed to serve you and give you our best: space so well designed that you can enjoy and start living your dreams! We are a “one pit stop design shop” whether you are just looking for a small accessory, an area rug, a color consult… to a complete renovation or addition. We will take care of it, we will spoil you and you will be so pleased with the result. At Decore & More, we pride in our outstanding customer service. Every one of our customers is unique and extremely valuable, regardless of the size of the project. We love our job, we love what we do and we proudly show it in our work.
Looking back on your childhood, what experiences do you feel played an important role in shaping the person you grew up to be?
We are definitely shaped by our previous experiences. I was blessed to have a fantastic childhood and a loving family. Losing my parents at a young age made me realize the value of family and loyalty, and to cherish every moment. It made me a better woman, a better mother and I every day, I try to improve myself to set an example to my sons, just like my parents did.
Contact Info:
- Address: 7030 FM 1488 Suite 116
Magnolia TX, 77354 - Website: https://www.decoremoredesign.com/
- Phone: 832-521-3699
- Email: judith@decoremoredesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decore_more_design_studio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DecoreandMoreStudio/?ref=bookmarks
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-arroyo-48774934
Image Credit:
Mariel McHugh
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