I founded StackHaus Strategy + Design LLC to bring together the passions that have shaped my career: interior design, library and information science, and creating spaces that strengthen connections between people. Throughout every chapter of my professional journey, I’ve been driven by the belief that thoughtfully designed environments have the power to shape how people learn, connect, and experience their communities.

Over 25 years, I’ve had the opportunity to lead commercial interior design projects across the United States, work with nationally recognized architecture firms, and earn recognition through multiple industry design awards. Early in my career, I was honored to be featured in The Cleveland Plain Dealer‘s “On the Move With” series for my contributions to both the design profession and the community.

In 2008, another chapter of my career began when I joined the faculty with the Interior Design Program at Kent State University’s College of Architecture and Environmental Design. What started as an adjunct teaching position grew into nearly two decades of educating and mentoring the next generation of designers. Throughout this journey, I became an Associate Professor and was fortunate to receive honors including Kent State University’s Outstanding Teaching Award, the Most Valuable Professor Award, and the nationally recognized DesignIntelligence teaching award. Teaching has continually challenged me to think differently, ask better questions, and remain curious.

That same curiosity eventually led me to pursue a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS).

To some, interior design and libraries might seem like completely different worlds. To me, they’ve always been deeply connected. Both are centered around people. Both organize information. Both shape experiences. And both are most successful when they thoughtfully respond to the changing needs of the communities they serve.

As I worked through my MLIS program, something clicked. Many of the conversations happening within library and information science weren’t simply operational or organizational challenges; they were design challenges.

For my graduate capstone, I partnered with three suburban library systems to study how patrons and staff interacted with their environments. Through observation, movement mapping, space utilization studies, and stakeholder interviews, I saw firsthand how profoundly the built environment influences accessibility, engagement, collaboration, and service.

That research transformed the way I think about libraries.

Libraries are centers for learning, discovery, technology, creativity, and connection. They continue to evolve alongside their communities, and the environments that support them should evolve as well.

When I completed my research, my faculty advisor shared a simple observation that has stayed with me ever since: communities need this work, and libraries need the expertise I can provide.

That conversation became the catalyst for StackHaus Strategy + Design LLC.

With StackHaus Strategy + Design LLC, I am bringing everything together that I’ve learned as a designer, educator, researcher, and information professional to help libraries better understand how people experience their spaces. When strategy and design work together, I can provide value to help environments become more adaptable, welcoming, and aligned with each library’s mission and the evolving needs of its community.

-Jill Lahrmer