Texas Tech University

Savannah Buttler

Bommarito Group
Interior Design

Senior Interior Design (ID) Major Savannah Buttler has a passion for creating things that positively impact others, and chose to pursue an interior design bachelor's degree because it gave her the opportunity to create a spaces that could do just that. Savannah says that there are several factors that go into creating a good space, but no one really thinks about it until one is done poorly.

"My goal is to make sure that you never notice how a space is positively impacting you only that it succeeds in doing so," Savannah said.

Savannah's goal is reinforced by the coursework she has completed in the ID program. Savannah says that Texas Tech University's interior design program is unique because of the rigorous coursework offered in each class and studio.

"Each faculty member has a unique style and teaching method they use that provides a diverse learning experience."

This past summer Savannah used what she has learned in Texas Tech's Interior Design program at an internship with the Bommarito Group. The Bommarito Group is an award-winning design firm based in Austin Texas. The firm has a history dating back to 1881 and clients like the historic Driskill Hotel, British Airways, and the Austin Museum of Art.

Savannah worked full time at the Bommarito Group and said she was treated more like an employee than an intern. Savannah said that she worked heavily with Revit design software to create layouts, redlining, and custom built elements. Savannah worked with clients to create programs for future projects, and helped create a master plan of a university.

"I loved that the Bommarito Group trusted me to do the job and do it well."

Savannah also traveled with the Bommarito Group to Chicago for NeoCon. The show is held every June in Chicago and showcases new products and materials for design professionals. Savannah says attending NeoCon was the highlight of her time interning with the Bommarito Group. Savannah enjoyed the experiences she was allowed to have in the showrooms and at networking events.

"I think my time at the Bommarito Group is something that will impact my future career choices in the field of Interior Design."

Savannah said that her internship experience allowed her to see how the real world works in the interior design industry, and has provided her numerous opportunities to network and work directly with clients. Savannah says that the most important lesson she has learned in both her ID studies and her internship is to make sure to strike a balance between work and spending time with family and friends.

"As an Interior Design student, it is so easy to get caught up in the mindset of choosing projects over spending time with friends if you don't time manage well and plan out the time to separate the two."

Towards the end of her internship, Savannah learned how utilize her time management skills to make the most of her time outside of work. Savannah said that the overall lesson learned was that health and well-being should always be prioritized.

Savannah is set to graduate May 2018. She is currently searching for a job in Austin, but is open to any opportunities that may present themselves.

"My future in Interior Design seems more successful and within my reach due to the opportunities provided to me at the Bommarito Group."

Savannah Buttler