008: Behind the Board - Mallory Duran - How Showing Up Built My Design Career

Interior Design San Diego - Presented by ASID San Diego

Welcome back to Interior Design San Diego! In this episode of our “Meet the Board” series, we sit down with Mallory Duran—our newly‑appointed Finance Director at ASID San Diego. If you’ve ever wondered how someone with a music major and a retail‑management background ends up influencing budgets and design‑industry partnerships, you’re in for a treat. Mallory shares her circuitous journey into design, how she re‑entered the workforce as a single parent of four, and how she’s now helping connect designers, builders, and industry partners in the San Diego region. Join us as we explore creativity, community, and the power of showing up.

3–5 Key Takeaways:

1. Your path doesn’t have to be linear. Mallory’s background shows that even unexpected careers (music major → retail management → design industry) can lead to meaningful roles in design leadership.
2. Community is everything. ASID San Diego made Mallory feel welcomed—even as someone who didn’t attend design school—and that sense of belonging is a powerful asset when you show up.
3. Design professionals benefit when industry & trade connect. Mallory’s role at The Home Depot Design Center places her at the intersection of builders, designers, and vendors—highlighting how collaboration across segments strengthens the ecosystem.
4. Leadership is about service, not spotlight. Even though “Finance Director” might sound behind the scenes, Mallory emphasizes how critical this role is for making everything else possible—reimbursements, compliance, strategic growth.
5. Show up, then lean in. Whether you’re new to San Diego, shifting careers, or stepping into board service, consistency, curiosity, and connection are key. Mallory invites us to stay tuned for big things happening this year with ASID San Diego.

About Mallory:

Mallory Duran serves as the 2025-2026 ASID Finance Director and is the West Coast Builder Sales Specialist with the Home Depot Design Center. With a diverse background ranging from stay-at-home mom to designing custom window coverings and owning a construction company, Mallory brings a wealth of experience to her current role. Her passion for fostering positive relationships is her greatest strength both professionally and personally. As a proud mother of four, she expertly balances her family and career. Mallory eagerly anticipates future opportunities with ASID and is dedicated to making a significant impact in the market.

Connect with Mallory: [email protected]

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