How One Designer’s Unique Background Brings Fresh Ideas to Private Club Design

Chambers’ office in Washington, D.C. is led by Megan Hochman, a true asset to the firm. From her vast experience in residential and hospitality design, she has brought great knowledge to the interior design studio in her years at Chambers. Her strong portfolio also features a prominent role she currently holds as President of the Washington Metro Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). Here, she indulges in how she began her career in hospitality design and what she is most excited about for her future.

How did you get involved in hospitality design?
My first job out of University was at an interior design firm in London that specialized in luxury residential design. At the time, one of our clients was an investor in a five-star historic hotel in Dublin, Ireland.  We were hired to design the ballroom, pre-function areas and multiple meeting rooms. This was my first hospitality experience – designing this beautiful historic Georgian hotel. This first developed my appreciation for hospitality design, ultimately positioning myself to work for industry leaders such as Christina Fallah Designs, ForrestPerkins DC, Mona Hajj Interiors, and now Chambers!

What attracted you to designing specifically for private clubs?
Club design is a hybrid of residential and hospitality design, which is a natural combination for me considering my past experience in both areas. Clubs have a special ‘personal’ sense, providing a functional and comfortable space with an intricate attention to detail on how members use the space and create an experience with each other. The spaces also conform to building codes and accessibility creating a healthy, safe, and universal environment.

Of all the new club design trends out there, what are you most excited about?
The focus of upgrading amenities and facilities to attract new members is exciting. The way of living is changing drastically with technology, information is at our fingertips, and what is expected in an experience is elevated.  Re-envisioning traditional ways to stay current develops the way of the future and is thrilling to be involved in.

If you could retire one club design tradition, what would it be?
It is difficult for me to single out one club design tradition to retire since all clubs are unique in their own way. As a designer, it is our duty to respectfully transition club traditions by maintaining history, but also designing for the future.

How has your role as President of the Washington Metro Chapter of ASID influenced your role at Chambers?
I joined ASID as a student member and rejoined when I returned to the States in 2007.  It is a dynamic organization that allows you to network and connect with so many incredible designers, industry partners, educators, and students across all types of industries.  I have served on the NCIDQ practicum committee, as well as Communications Director and President-Elect for the Washington Metro Chapter.  It has been an honor to serve as President in 2017.  ASID has truly enriched my career and provided me with opportunities I would never have had otherwise. I am fortunate to bring this personal leadership experience and perspective back to the Interior Design Studio at Chambers. I look forward to serving as Nominating Chair next year and continue to give back to the future of our industry.

Who is your design inspiration?
I have many design inspirations including studios I have worked for, but I would say one of the most significant is Alberto Pinto.  He was originally born in Casablanca and raised in Paris.  His worldly experience influenced his interiors in a distinct way. When you see his work, it is clearly influenced by various cultures and experiences. His projects are beautiful, decadent, with a wide range of style, and natural gracious refinement.

What are you most excited for in the new D.C. office location?
The Washington, D.C. office is a fantastic opportunity to grow Chambers’ portfolio and talent. We’re located in the heart of the business district, close to many design resources and in close proximity to the Baltimore headquarters. We’re looking forward to building a studio culture that is passionate about design, supportive of the changing needs of our industry and continues to provide exceptional service to our clients.