Amplifying Female Voices in Design: A Conversation with Casey Baxter and Alda Ly
In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen is joined by two influential women in the design industry—Alda Ly, founder and principal of ALA Studio (@_ala_studio), and Casey Baxter, vice president and general manager of HBF (@hbffurniture | @hbftextiles). As part of our Women’s History Month series, we explore their professional journeys, the impact of female-led collaborations, and the importance of amplifying diverse voices in the built environment.
From navigating male-dominated workplaces to pioneering inclusive and empathetic design solutions, Alda and Casey share insights into fostering a culture of mentorship, designing with intention, and advocating for equitable opportunities in leadership. The discussion also highlights standout projects, such as HBF’s New York City showroom, which integrates wellness-focused spaces, and Alda’s work in women-centered interiors and inclusive workplace design.
Tune in to learn how thoughtful design decisions are shaping a more equitable and empowering future for all.
Meet Our Guests
Alda Ly, founder and principal, ALA Studio
Alda Ly is founder and principal of ALA Studio (formerly Alda Ly Architecture). Born in New
Zealand and raised in a working-class suburb of Los Angeles, she would watch her
cabinetmaker father draw kitchen elevations and accompany him to open houses to see how
other people shaped their spaces. From the moment she studied freehand drawing as a UC
Berkeley undergrad, Ly knew she wanted to become an architect, and went on to earn a
Master’s degree from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design. While still a student at
Harvard, in 2008 she helped launch MASS Design Group, the award-winning nonprofit design
practice dedicated to humanitarian and socially sustainable work.
Since 2002, Ly has lived in New York City and has worked at Rafael Viñoly Architects, 212box,
HWKN, and Leong Leong. In these tenures, she nurtured a curiosity in evolving work and
cultural spaces, and discovered a talent for leading project teams with empathy. She also
co-founded Designers Assembly, which supports young architects who aspire to ethical,
creatively fulfilling entrepreneurship. She lives with her husband Rob, a tech product manager,
and their son, Simon, and daughter, Stella.
Casey Baxter, VP, general manager, HBF + HBF Textiles
Casey Baxter is vice president, general manager of HBF + HBF Textiles. Based in New York City, Casey brings 19 years of sales and leadership experience in the commercial furniture industry with a focus on design-oriented brands. A consummate connector, she is recognized for her ability to create long lasting, meaningful relationships with designers, dealers and clients alike. She thrives on the strategic and collaborative aspects of the industry and is highly active within CorNet Global, BeOriginal Americas, and the IIDA NY Chapter where she served on the Board of Directors as Co-Chair and Co-Founder of the Futurist Forum.
