Times are changing in the interior design industry as more women are taking up positions of leadership in architecture and design firms, like our guest for Part 3 of our Women in Design series, Abby Shehan, senior design director at Premier in Dallas. In this episode, Shehan talks about how her internship as a student led to her first job in a design studio that ultimately led her to a leadership position today, not without help from some mentors along the way. Listen in as Shehan shares her insights into working as a woman in hospitality design, how AI is transforming the way her firm designs and more.
Meet Our Guest
Abby Shehan, senior design director, Premier
Abby Shehan leads interior design teams to create innovative spaces on new-build and renovation projects in the multifamily and hospitality sectors. In her role, Abby pushes the boundaries of design and plays a crucial role in creating unique and captivating spaces that enhance the overall guest experience. She has skill precision in budgeting, space planning, design presentations, brand coordination, team building, and execution of internal workflow to ensure that project deadlines are met. Throughout her tenure at Premier, she has successfully transformed ordinary spaces into extraordinary destinations that are celebrated worldwide.
About the Author
Robert Nieminen
Chief Content Director
Chief Content Director, Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources
Robert Nieminen is the Chief Content Director of three leading B2B publications serving the commercial architecture and design industries: Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources. With a career rooted in editorial excellence and a passion for storytelling, Robert oversees a diverse content portfolio that spans award-winning feature articles, strategic podcast programming, and digital media initiatives aimed at empowering design professionals, facility managers, and commercial building stakeholders.
He is the host of the I Hear Design podcast and curates the Smart Buildings Technology Report, bringing thought leadership to the forefront of innovation in built environments. Robert leads editorial and creative direction for multiple industry award programs—including the Elev8 Design Awards and Product Innovation Awards—and is a recognized voice in sustainability, smart technology integration, and forward-thinking design.
Known for his sharp editorial vision and data-informed strategies, Robert focuses on audience growth, engagement, and content monetization, leveraging AI tools and SEO-driven insights to future-proof B2B publishing.