DesignHER is a platform that celebrates the vision, craftsmanship, and innovation of women in design. By curating stories from leading female designers, artisans, and creatives, our latest series, in collaboration with Women Create, offers an intimate look at the diverse paths these women take to shape their industries and their own businesses. Through thoughtful interviews and features, the platform illuminates the artistry and technical mastery that define their work, while exploring the deeper narratives of creativity, resilience, and leadership. DesignHER honors the unique perspectives of women, fostering a community where design excellence and empowerment intersect to inspire the next generation of trailblazers.
Loren Branca has always had a deep passion for creativity, finding joy in expressing herself through various mediums like fashion, photography and design. Growing up, she was inspired by her parents, who instilled in her the value of pursuing what she loves with passion and dedication. This foundation nurtured Loren’s artistic spirit and gave her the confidence to explore her unique perspective on beauty and creativity. Joining Alder and Tweed has been a pivotal step in her journey, providing her with a platform to grow as a storyteller. She approaches each project with curiosity and a commitment to excellence, blending her love for color, texture, and composition to capture spaces that highlight the brand and designer’s work. Loren’s artistry is inspired by her belief that beauty can be found everywhere — the way light plays through a lens or the balance of a well-designed room. She sees every project as an opportunity to create something meaningful, pushing boundaries while staying true to her timeless and sophisticated aesthetic. Loren’s creative process is grounded in her ability to find balance, trust her instincts, and embrace collaboration. She’s deeply motivated by the idea that art and design have the power to bring joy and connection to people’s lives. Loren continues to evolve her craft with a focus on authenticity and innovation and her work reflects her passion for storytelling and her commitment to creating beauty in every detail. See the world through Loren’s lens in today’s DesignHer.
Through photography, Loren is able to capture the warmth and grandeur of this space, weaving a story of rustic elegance by highlighting the interplay of natural light, the texture of the stone fireplace, and the inviting layers of fur and wood, all framed by mountain views.
aspire design and home: How do you think being a woman has influenced your approach to design and creativity?
Loren Branca: Being a woman has shaped my design and creative approach by allowing me to embrace a softer, more gentle perspective in my work. I believe there’s room for everyone in this industry, and we each bring something unique and valuable to the table. I try to spread kindness in my interactions and channel a softer, more whimsical energy into my photography and design. I love creating spaces and visuals that feel inviting and lived-in — never too perfect — favoring an organic flow that tells a story and brings warmth to every setting.
adh: In what ways do you feel your work contributes to the representation of women in the art and design world?
LB: My work contributes to the representation of women in the art and design world by celebrating the importance of a feminine eye and the way women naturally see beauty in everyday life. I believe women have a unique way of infusing that perspective into our creations. I’m not afraid to push boundaries or approach design with less structure, which allows me to take spaces for what they are and turn them into something magical. There’s art, color, and texture all around us, and I think women embrace these elements while still maintaining a softer, more balanced feel in their work.
Loren balances natural and ambient lighting to enhance the deep blue walls, bold textures and décor.
adh: What advice would you give to other women looking to enter the field of high-end artisanal crafts?
LB: My advice for women entering the field of high-end artisanal crafts is to never be afraid to voice your input. You bring a unique perspective to the table every day—no one else sees or thinks like you. Take time to shadow others and learn from their craft, but remember that practice is everything. Just start, and don’t fear constructive criticism or failure, as both are part of the learning process to master your craft. Keep your style sophisticated and timeless, rather than following trends too closely and realize there’s no “right or wrong” way of doing art. Trust your gut and enter every room with confidence, because that energy directly influences the art you create. For me, I understand that my art will be constantly changing and evolving and there is no end goal, which is so freeing.
“The worst enemy to creativity is self doubt”. – Sylvia Plath
adh: What role do you think community and collaboration play in your creative process?
LB: Community and collaboration are at the core of my creative process. I prefer my art to be highly collaborative, and I’m fortunate to work alongside many talented women who each bring their own unique eye and taste to the table. I love incorporating different perspectives into the overall vision and success of our projects. I’m never afraid to ask for opinions or work together to build the perfect shot. I also remind myself that art is subjective—not everyone will resonate with what we create, but that diversity of thought is what makes it truly beautiful.
I stay motivated by living by the motto “work hard, play hard.” I’ve definitely experienced burnout before, but the best way for me to get out of a creative rut is to have fun and try something new. You never know what’s going to inspire you, whether it’s fashion, architecture, design, reading, or media. I’m motivated by the fact that there’s no definitive end to art—it’s limitless. That means there’s nothing stopping me from creating and succeeding, and I love knowing that my unique perspective and taste may connect with others in unexpected ways. I’m lucky enough to work with so many talented individuals (specifically the women) that challenge me to think about things differently and approach art from different viewpoints.
Loren highlights the bold contrast between the black cabinetry and the vibrant lime-green walls.
adh: What role does storytelling play in your art, and how do you weave your personal narrative into your pieces?
LB: Storytelling is a huge part of my art because it’s woven into the vision of Alder & Tweed: to add more beauty to people’s lives through aspirational design. I contribute to this by capturing the essence of a space and “selling” its beauty by highlighting the best parts while incorporating my own artistic touch. Whether it’s through how I shoot, style, or edit a space, every small detail matters. A slight change in the angle of a chair or a specific edit can completely transform the mood, and that’s where I infuse my personal narrative into every piece.
adh: How do you manage work-life balance, especially in an industry that demands both creativity and business acumen?
LB: I manage work-life balance by making sure I’m fueled to create. For me, that means prioritizing travel, finding beauty in all things, and collaborating with other creators to keep inspiration alive. This is where my motto “work hard, play hard” comes in—you can’t experience the joy of creating without putting in the work first. I also recognize the importance of staying organized and handling the administrative tasks that are necessary to bring creative visions to life successfully. It’s all about finding that balance so I can enjoy both the business and creative sides of the industry.
adh: How do you handle criticism and use it constructively in your work?
LB: I handle criticism by viewing it as a crucial part of growth and learning. Instead of taking it personally, I see it as an opportunity to gain new insights and refine my work. I actively seek feedback and try to analyze it objectively, identifying areas where I can improve. This constructive approach allows me to evolve as an artist and creator, ultimately enhancing the quality of my work. Embracing criticism helps me grow and keeps me open to new ideas and perspectives.
adh: What role does experimentation play in your creative process?
LB: Experimentation plays a vital role in my creative process because you never know what will work until you try. I’m not afraid to move things around and explore new ideas, even if it means making adjustments multiple times. Perfecting a shot can take time, so I emphasize the importance of not rushing the process. I also value others’ opinions, as they can provide fresh perspectives, but I always strive to maintain my personal vision throughout the creative journey. This balance of openness and individuality allows me to push boundaries and discover new possibilities in my work.
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