# Tangram Launches 'Women in Design' Event Series, Building Community Across Architecture and Design
The commercial design industry continues to evolve, and with it comes the recognition that diverse voices create stronger, more innovative spaces. Tangram Interiors is proud to sponsor the Women in Design event series, an initiative that brings together female professionals to share experiences, insights, and support one another in their careers.
## From Virtual Conversations to In-Person Community
The Women in Design series began during the pandemic when **Andra Kaleps**, Tangram's Business Partnerships Leader, started hosting virtual roundtable discussions. As the world reopened, Kaleps recognized the need to create lasting connections within the design community.
"It is imperative that our industry build on the powerful female design community within Los Angeles, Orange County and beyond," Kaleps explains. "This program connects, strengthens, empowers and inspires."
## Recent Los Angeles Event Highlights Industry Leaders
The latest Women in Design event took place at the Steelcase WorkLife Center in Los Angeles on May 12th. The panel discussion featured accomplished professionals sharing their career journeys and insights:
- **Amanda Pierce**, Lead Designer at Tangram (moderator) - **Allyson Campbell**, Senior Designer at Bestor Architecture - **Cassie Stepanek**, Co-Design Director at Studio Other - **Adaeze Cadet**, Design Principal at HOK - **Lisa Kong**, Principal at DLR Group
**Cassie Stepanek** reflected on the event's impact: "Once upon a time, this was a very male-dominated industry and I am so proud to break those boundaries and work as an equal with some of the most reputable men and women in design."
## Creating Space for Authentic Conversations
The Women in Design series addresses a critical need in the commercial design industry. These gatherings provide a platform where female designers can:
- Ask questions without hesitation - Share personal and professional challenges - Explore new design possibilities - Build meaningful professional relationships - Navigate difficult industry conversations
As Kaleps describes it, "Women in Design is a sounding board, a shoulder to cry on, a celebratory champagne toast. It is a space where every designer's individual journey is supported and celebrated."
## Expanding Nationwide
The success of the Los Angeles event has sparked plans for expansion. Upcoming Women in Design events are scheduled for:
- Dallas, Texas - Orange County, California - San Francisco, California
This growth reflects the strong demand for professional community and mentorship opportunities within the design industry.
## Why Community Matters in Commercial Design
For Tangram Interiors, supporting the Women in Design series aligns with the company's core philosophy of creating diverse spaces that serve different types of work and workers. The firm understands that innovative commercial environments emerge from diverse perspectives and collaborative thinking.
The design industry benefits when professionals have opportunities to connect, share knowledge, and support one another's growth. Events like Women in Design create ripple effects that extend far beyond individual careers—they influence project outcomes, client relationships, and industry standards.
## Getting Involved
Commercial design professionals interested in attending or learning more about Women in Design events can find information at [tangraminteriors.com/events](https://www.tangraminteriors.com/events).
As the series continues to grow, it represents more than networking—it's about building a stronger, more inclusive commercial design industry where every professional has the support they need to create exceptional spaces.
