Q&A With Interior Designer Jessi

I recently had a virtual chat with Jessi, an Interior Designer from our Rapid City office, and got to ask her some in depth questions about what being an interior designer for Chamberlin Architects is all about. Jessi is a driving force at our Rapid City office where she energetically takes care of clients, projects, and fellow employees every day. She also keeps busy at home, taking care of her 1-year old twin girls with her husband. Jessi has been working for Chamberlin Architects since January of 2019. She graduated from South Dakota State University and has received design awards from the City of Mankato. We are so glad to have Jessi on our team.

Jessi sits at her Rapid City Office surrounded by the accoutrements of an interior designer making beautiful spaces.

Robyn Miley, Marketing Director: What inspired you to go into Interior Design?

Jessi Bergeleen, Interior Designer: Liturgical design inspired me to go into Interior Design. When I was eight (8) years old, our local church started a campaign to raise money to update and expand our church. There was so much devotion and planning to building a space where everyone felt welcomed and could worship. To see people, radiate joy and proud ownership in a space that was designed just for them, this was my inspiration in becoming an interior designer.

Robyn: It sounds like you have a very personal and deep connection with interior design. How do you stay excited about different types of projects as you move from one project to another? What do you do to get in the zone of each project?

Jessi: My clients keep me engaged and excited to help design solutions to their dreams. Knowing that each creative decision will lead to a space they are proud to be in every day makes the process of design worth it. It is so important to seek out the most current innovations for each design so that when our clients move in, they have a space that works for their immediate and future needs.

Jessi in her element selecting materials for an upcoming project.

Robyn: Which project/projects have you worked on for Chamberlin Architects has been the most energizing for you and what was your role? What did you like about it?

Jessi: I have enjoyed being a part of the design team on many Chamberlin Architects projects but one that stands out to me is working on Outlaw Square in Deadwood, SD. I assisted in the interiors but also in reviewing the existing historical architectural elements that inspired elements on the new building. Now, a few years since the final construction date, it is amazing to see how dynamic and busy the event space is every weekend all year round.

Click to be directed to Deadwoods Webcams & view the LIVE WEBCAM of Outlaw Square.

Robyn: Outlaw square has become an iconic and highly visible project for Deadwood, but many people may not realize the historical research aspect of architecture. How important is the accuracy of the historical element and how much does that influence the result? What elements of Outlaw are particularly historical?

Jessi: There have been a couple of historic buildings on the site in past. It used to be the site of the City Hall and Deadwood Opera House (Deadwood Theater). These buildings burned down in 1952. The design incorporates details from the Victorian-era buildings including the ornate parapet, arched openings, and the brick design around the windows. These elements create harmony between the building’s façade and the surrounding historic downtown features.

Outlaw Square in Deadwood SD provides a historical outdoor gathering space for organized events or family picnics.

Robyn: What do you enjoy the most about living in Rapid City?

Jessi: I move back to Rapid City in 2019 not because I did not love the communities I lived in but because there is so much to do in Rapid City and the surrounding areas. On the weekends we have the option to join a community event, go to a play or a concert, go on a hike, visit a brewery/distillery, or just stay home and enjoy the beautiful scenery that surrounds each home. I do have family that still lives in Rapid City and I have enjoyed being close to them as we raise our family.

Jessi and her family enjoying a ride on a Triceratops at one of Rapid City’s many family friendly parks.

Robyn: I can easily see why you would choose Rapid City. It’s a great place for a family and staying active. Has Rapid City helped you grow as a designer and in what way has it inspired you?

Jessi: The Black Hills are a refresh to the soul weather you are enjoying the outdoors, dining in, or waking up to a fresh cup of coffee at home. This keeps the work verses personal life balance that all professionals seek. As a designer, Rapid City and its surrounding communities provide an eclectic variety of experiences and places that broaden my creative toolbox. Seeing the colors change through the seasons may inspire interior color palettes and I try to mimic the cozy feeling you experience while fishing or hiking in my space planning and layouts. Outside of my personal research interior design professional development, Rapid City fosters the connection to other professionals in the area. This helps with networking and connecting with community events that I can participate individually in or with my family.

Robyn: Thanks for helping us get to know you better Jessi. It’s well-rounded, talented, and hard working individual like you that make Chamberlin Architects a special place. We are so glad to have you on our team!