When did you decide to join the family business?
I set out to be a scientist, driven by an interest in the future of biotechnology. However, as I delved deeper into my studies, I realized that this path wasn’t aligned with my true aspirations and strengths. Initially, I joined Lindal in a customer service and sales role, which allowed me to build strong relationships with our distributors and learn about the company’s operations from the ground up.
What was your path to becoming president?
I never thought I would eventually lead the company but developed an immense respect for the unique building system my grandfather developed over 70 years ago - a system resulting in over 50,000 homes being built around the world. My commitment to our mission to provide our clients with beautiful, joyous, comfortable homes grew to the point where I knew this was my true career path.
How does a focus on sustainability impact your work?
Lindal Cedar Homes was “green” when green was just a color to most people! My grandfather constantly innovated and experimented with green design principles and products that are standard practices today. Our system utilizes materials very efficiently, so there is little waste.
Sustainability is also in our DNA as lumber can be the most sustainable building material, it is reusable and biodegradable. Canada (the source of Lindal’s signature Western Red Cedar) has some of the world’s strictest sustainable forest harvesting practices. We use second, third, and fourth-generation sustainable lumber in our homes.
As you look to the future, are there ideas you think should be front and center in the fields of residential home design and construction?
Our industry has a bad reputation for exceeding client budgets. I encourage designers to think outside the box about ways to meet client desires creatively while respecting their budget. Our business practice is to be transparent and forthcoming throughout the process.
What key factors or evolutions have kept Lindal relevant and successful for over 75 years and through three generations of family ownership?
We have always focused on client-centric design, leading to some truly fantastic homes over the years. We were early innovators in the modern design movement, which gave us a leg-up on our competition. We continue to adapt and innovate our designs and products to keep up with our clients’ ever-changing desires.
Tell us about your collaboration with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.
Our introduction to the Frank Lloyd Wright world was through The School of Architecture, founded by Wright. We worked with the faculty and students to develop designs using our modern Lindal system. Inspired by the vibrant culture around Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy and principles, my sister, Trina Lindal, entered the program and received her architecture degree there.
With the approval and support of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Trina and former School faculty member, Aris Georges, developed the Lindal Imagine Series, our line of Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian-inspired homes. Earlier this year, I was asked to join the board of the Foundation. We continue to collaborate and expand the program.
What would you describe as the Lindal home aesthetic? What do clients love about their homes?
We bring the outside in, through walls of glass on the view side of homes, created through multi-tiered windows and large sliding doors. Our beams often extend beyond the home’s envelope to soften the interior and exterior space division.
Lindal’s post and beam construction allows for endless flexibility in the layout of interior rooms. Our expansive, light-filled great rooms are legendary, as is our reputation for providing beautiful materials of the highest quality. Our designs are modern but warm, inviting, and enduring.
For more information visit: www.lindal.com
