How Philanthropy Gives Our Work Meaning

In the world of design, we have the sacred privilege of shaping spaces that people will live in, experience, and cherish. But every once in a while, an opportunity comes along to create something that extends beyond personal use—a space that becomes a gift (a sanctuary) for our community. Working with Gulfshore Playhouse on their newly opened Baker Theatre and Education Center in Naples has been one of those opportunities. You can read more about the opening in a recent Naples Illustrated article. This project has given us the chance to deepen our connection with our community, with artistic expression, and to our idea of sanctuary in ways that bring so much meaning to what we do.

At its core, my work revolves around creating sanctuaries—spaces where people can find peace, reconnect with themselves, and experience the grounding beauty of the natural world. However, sanctuary is not just a design principle; it is a guiding life philosophy that touches every decision I make. Part of crafting the experience of sanctuary is connecting with ourselves so we can then reconnect with those around us. It helps us be the best possible versions of ourselves.

So in working with Gulfshore Playhouse and donating our design services for their new theater, I see it as an opportunity to take the concept of sanctuary beyond personal spaces and into the community. Led by the visionary Kristen Coury, the playhouse is a cultural gem for Naples, with its Art Deco-meets-modern design. The structure is not only stunning, but also thoughtful and intentional—a place where our community can gather to experience the magic of live theater, storytelling, and shared human experience. Every element of the design supports this mission, from natural materials that connect people to the world around them to thoughtful spaces where creativity thrives and feels at home.

By incorporating biophilic elements such as wood tones and natural stone, and arranging open, welcoming areas for gathering, we aimed to create a space where every person feels a sense of belonging and calm. These choices enhance the experience of being in the spaces without overshadowing the deeper purpose: that this building serves as a nexus for creativity, a place where art connects people. For me, this is the essence of a community sanctuary.

Designing spaces for shared art and expression is especially meaningful to me because art is a sanctuary in itself; it gives people a safe space to feel, imagine, and understand things they might not otherwise have encountered. Through this theater, Gulfshore Playhouse invites the community to experience stories that are reflective, some may be challenging, and others incandescently joyous. In a world that often feels divided, a space dedicated to art serves as a reminder of our common humanity, something I have especially needed in the past few weeks. 

I believe that sanctuary isn’t confined to private spaces; it extends outward, touching neighborhoods, cities, and communities at large. In this way, philanthropic work allows us to be part of something that matters on a deeper level, and will outlast us – a wider experience of sanctuary that nourishes our very souls. 

With love and gratitude,

Lisa