Profiles In Design 2025

Honoree Profile

Michelle Doherty

Gary Lee Partners

  • Title: Senior Designer
  • Tenure at Firm: 7.5 Years
  • Nominating Principal: David Grout, Principal
  • School: Purdue University 
  • Major: BA in Interior Space Planning and Design  

Inspired By:

I find design inspiration in applying creativity to functionality. This is what has always drawn me to interior design: the mix of art and function.
Michelle Doherty
Keys to a Successful Project:
Communication, collaboration, and creativity. Clear communication is a key ingredient to understanding the client’s needs as well as the client understanding the designer’s vision and proposed solutions. No project is a success without a team of harmonious collaborators. Collaboration among the client, consultants, and internal design team is key from start to finish. Creativity, through thoughtful and unique solutions, makes it all a success.

Interests Outside of Work:
I enjoy cooking, reading, gardening and traveling. Spending time with my husband and dog at home is a simple pleasure I love most.

“Michelle Doherty is a natural when it comes to making spaces not only look beautiful, but work beautifully. Her design philosophy is all about elevating everyday experiences—balancing form, function, and just the right amount of fun, aligning seamlessly with Gary Lee Partners’ client-centric philosophy. A proud board member of DIFFA, Michelle champions the design industry both in and out of the studio, bringing heart, energy, and a collaborative spirit to everything she touches. She’s the kind of emerging talent that reminds us why the future of design is so exciting.“

David Grout  
Principal

Michelle Doherty
Favorite Haworth Collection Piece:
Archibald Lounge Chair
What Is Special About It:
Its design is timeless and sophisticated yet unique and eye-catching.

Photos From Michelle

Learn more about this program and view other honorees.