How Studio 790 Founder Ann Lopez Builds Leaders, Not Followers
- May 3
- 2 min read
“I’m not developing followers. I’m developing leaders.” - Ann Lopez, Founder & CEO of Studio 790 Interior Design.
It’s a simple statement, but it carries the foundation of how we lead at Studio 790.
In a world where leadership is often tied to performance, perception, and pressure to “show up a certain way,” we believe something different: Leadership starts with authenticity.
Leading with Authenticity
There’s no “on” and “off” version of leadership. Who we are at work is who we are outside of it.
Because when leaders show up authentically, it gives others permission to do the same.
And in a creative business, that matters. If people don’t feel like they can be themselves, they won’t create their best work.
Investing in People
We don’t just invest in projects, we invest in people. We take the time to understand what’s happening in their lives, not just their roles. When our team is interested in learning more about AI or new initiatives, we are all in and fully support them.
Because at the end of the day, people don’t just remember the work.
They remember:
how they were treated
how they grew, what they learned
how they felt
Truth + Growth
Part of that investment means being honest. Not just when things are going well, but especially when they’re not. We believe in having real conversations the kind that help people grow, even if they’re uncomfortable in the moment.
Because growth doesn’t come from avoiding the hard things. It comes from being seen, supported, and challenged to do better.
Building Leaders Not Followers
Our goal isn’t to create followers. It’s to develop leaders.
That means giving people ownership, pushing them to grow, and trusting them with more.
Because leadership multiplies. That's how we build leaders not followers.
A Parallel Path
We’re in the business of designing spaces that make people feel something. Spaces that feel intentional, supportive, and aligned with how people live.
So it only makes sense that we lead our team the same way.
The environment we create internally should reflect what we create externally.
Anything less wouldn’t make sense.
The Goal
Here’s the reality, as much as we would love it, not everyone will stay forever.
And that’s okay.
Our goal isn’t to hold onto people. It’s to help them grow into who they’re meant to become, wherever that takes them next.
If someone leaves better than they came, then we’ve done our job.
Watch the Clip
Hear this message directly from our founder. Watch the full clip here.
Final Thought
Leadership isn’t just about what you build.
It’s about who you build along the way.
