A RENDER I NG OF THE UPCOMI NG RENOVATED LOBBY AT THE RI T Z-CARLTON, NAPLES MI RIAM TORRES PRINCIPAL PARKER-TORRES DESIGN , SUDBURY, MASSACHUSETTS A SEAT I NG AREA AT THE JW MARR IOTT HOUS TON BY THE GALLER I A How did you get started in the industry? 38 years ago working for a woman, Maddie Cunier, who was my biggest mentor designing hotels. Did you have a big break? When we were awarded the Fairmont Copley in Boston and the Willard InterContinental in DC. Luxury, luxury, luxury! What would you like to see in terms of a more inclusive industry? I would like to inspire young people in Latin America by advising them that hospitality design is an option for a professional career. 42 FALL 2 0 2 2 Best advice you've received? Hire talented people with the potential to be better than you. Advice for a strong client/designer relationship? Bad news does not get better with time. When an issue arises, respond immediately with solutions. Advice for up-and-comers? We have many talented women in the industry. Don't be afraid to ask to be mentored. If you weren't in your current role, what would you be doing? Developing a hotel. BD PHOTOS: DAN HAM AND COURTESY PARKER TORRES