In the latest installment of HD’s Meet the Minds series, David Shema of Pasadena-based Shema Dougall Design Associates shares how architecture has long influenced his outlook, as well as how he continues to perpetuate the legacy of his mentor, Terry Dougall.
Where did you grow up? Did it influence your career path?
I grew up in suburban Maryland, a quick metro ride from Washington, DC. The architecture of my hometown was unremarkable, but my parents took me and my brothers to Washington regularly. The magnificence of massive stone steps leading to every museum and the contrast between my humble town with old brick storefronts enlightened me to the impact of design in our daily lives. As our family travels grew with us, leading to major cities in the U.S. and on to Europe, I experienced an even greater divergence between new and old architecture that shaped my appreciation for diversity of design. I was captivated by the cutting-edge buildings with a backdrop of centuries-old architecture. All the standard tourist spots were on our itinerary, but I would also lobby for a few notable modern architectural destinations.
What are some of your first memories of design?
Our weekend visits to the National Mall had a profound impact on me. At a very young age, I connected with I.M. Pei’s East Wing of the National Gallery of Art. It is so distinct from the buildings around, yet I always felt that it was perfectly comfortable among them. I saw it as every bit as grand as the Neoclassic and Beaux Arts buildings adjacent, and following its own set of consistent rules inside and out. I would happily spend hours studying the building while my parents perused the art within. I observed how the straight lines, triangular skylight, and knife-edge corners created amazing shadows that would morph throughout the day, becoming part of the architecture itself.
The lobby lounge at Seven Feathers Casino Resort in Canyonville, Oregon
When did you first join Dougall Design Associates? Tell us about that evolution in your career.
My role at Dougall Design Associates began in 2002. At that time, I thought it would be a brief detour from my path to becoming an architect. I found Terry Dougall’s work in interiors to be wonderfully imaginative and technically masterful. His studio was full of exceptional designers, who had been loyal colleagues for many years—speaking volumes to his credibility as a designer and principal.
Terry’s immense dedication to work and his clients provided endless opportunities for me to learn and grow in the design field. With a boom of large-scale projects, my passion and commitment was recognized and rewarded by his trust. In 2008, we established the new company, Shema Dougall Design Associates. Terry continued to serve our firm as a mentor, while I had taken on the full charge of design direction and operations. Today, I look for new opportunities that reflect the changing world of design and reach beyond our historical focus on gaming.
Any early lessons learned?
Shortly after beginning to work for Terry, I accepted the role of jobsite interior design manager for the Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls. While I was familiar with the ornate Belle Époque style, working with that level of detail was a new challenge for me and indeed for the contractors. During 15 months of daily interaction with the construction team, I learned to appreciate their role as an asset to a collaborative design process and the project’s ultimate success. Their knowledge of the trades, materials, sequencing, and individual creativity would influence how I would both design and document projects in the future.
How would you describe your firm’s style?
As a designer with the bulk of my career in the casino industry, I’ve been fortunate to explore a variety of styles. Each project is defined by distinct requirements and customer visions that run the gamut of design. In that sense, I believe that our signature is our integrity and commitment to clients, and our immense passion for creating new experiences.
Tell us about your most recent hospitality project.
We were thrilled with the recent completion of HakuVillas in Niseko, Japan. It, quite honestly, exceeded our expectations. Working closely with the client, who was introduced to us by our colleague Dianna Wong of Dianna Wong Architecture + Interiors, we developed a full concept harmonizing natural and manmade elements. The sweeping panoramas of Mount Yōtei were ever present in our office while we focused on a palette of natural woods, organic forms, complimentary textures, and luxurious appointments.
The dining area of one of HakuVillas’ full-floor, four-bedroom villas
What architect or designer do you admire most?
I appreciate the work of many contemporary designers, who consistently contribute to the wealth of design in the industry; however, I truly admire my mentor and friend, Terry Dougall. His work captured attention across the hospitality industry. His unshaken integrity and empowering skills encouraged designers on his team to master their talents, and I was fortunate to be one of them.
What is your dream project?
I look forward to taking the time to design fully from within, a design that is not for sale. This would be a home for my family to be passed down through generations. I often imagine a wooded hillside overlooking a mountain lake for the site of the house, designed in harmony with nature to promote a lifestyle of mindfulness and self-improvement.
If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?
Anthony Bourdain said: “Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life and travel leaves marks on you.” I have been intrigued by Anthony Bourdain and his fascinating way to experience the world and life. His loss was truly tragic. I would be thrilled to share meal with him—the location and meal, naturally, would be up to him.
If you weren’t in your current career, what would you be doing?
I have always loved building, bringing something to life from my imagination. I have combined my passion for music and woodworking through lutherie. I enjoy the entire process, selecting the right tonewoods, carving, finishing, and finally stringing up the guitar. I find it fulfilling to express myself through music using my own creation.
Kelsey’s bar and restaurant at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California
