UiD Fireside Chat: In Conversation with Alex Dauley

Note: Our fireside chat’s are an open, informal conversation that brings together industry leaders and emerging talent to share insights, personal journeys, and lived experiences. At United in Design, our fireside chats create a space for honest dialogue, mentorship, and inspiration—helping to bridge the gap between aspiration and access, and driving forward our mission to build a fairer, more inclusive design industry.

February 25th, 2025, United in Design (UiD) kicked off the Fireside-Chat series with UiD Co-Founder Alex Dauley, an advocate for diversity in the design industry. The event provided an intimate and engaging platform for our aspiring community of young designers to connect with an industry leader, gain insights, and explore key themes that shape the future of interior design.

With a room filled with eager young creatives, Alex Dauley shared her journey, highlighting the perseverance, hard work, and continuous learning that helped her along her journey. As a 2024 House & Garden Top 100 Designer, a Country & Town House Top 50 Designer, and a Black British Business Award winner for Senior Leader, Alex’s career is a testament to the power of resilience and dedication. Her work, featured in Vogue, Elle Decoration, and LivingEtc, has solidified her as an important voice in interiors, where representation matters.

Throughout the discussion, Alex underscored the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. She shared personal anecdotes of setbacks and breakthroughs, reminding attendees that hard work and determination always open new doors. "The design industry is competitive, but the key is to keep learning, keep pushing forward, and always seek opportunities for growth," she advised.

One of the most powerful moments of the evening came when Alex spoke about the role of support networks. She emphasized how mentorship, collaboration, and fostering an inclusive community can make all the difference in a designer’s journey. "Supporting others in this industry isn’t just about giving back; it’s about lifting each other up and creating opportunities for all of us to succeed" she said.

The Fireside Chat was a true embodiment of United in Design’s mission—to inspire, educate, and empower. Whether discussing career pathways, navigating the industry as a person of colour, or the future of design, the conversation was one of encouragement and motivation.

As the evening concluded, attendees connected and re-connected shearing their own journeys with peers and expanding our community and netwroks. One participant summed it up best: "The story of Alex's journey into interior design really struck a chord with me — starting in her 30s with no relevant experience, no industry connections, and no idea how to run a business, it’s exactly where I am now - yet she made her way to the House & Garden Top 100 Designers - inspiring." Said Kate Zueva.

United in Design continues to create spaces for meaningful dialogue, mentorship, and growth, ensuring that the future of interior design is bright, inclusive, and filled with opportunities for all. Stay tuned for the next Fireside Chat, and drop us a message to attend at Team@unitedindesign.com.