Today we’d like to introduce you to Janette Tropea
Hi Janette, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Before I even knew what architecture was, I was instinctively drawn to design. I built models for school projects completely unsolicited, questioned why our school had open-air hallways in a snowy climate, and convinced my parents to sign me up for art classes.
It was a journey of creative discovery. Luckily, my parents recognized my love for art early on and nurtured every curiosity. They signed me up for any dance class I wanted to try, traveled hours from our small town to find an easel and paints for my self-taught lessons, and took me to antique shops—despite being modernists at heart. Through it all, they indulged my endless stream of “why” questions about everything around me.
This all unfolded in a small town in Mexico with an all-American history. We spoke only English at school, celebrated Halloween and Thanksgiving alongside Mexican holidays, and lived in a world where cultures weren’t in contrast—they were seamlessly woven together and shaped an identity that felt entirely our own.
That constant curiosity and love of design, combined with my childhood experiences where culture was central and celebrated, led me to architecture. I was fascinated by how spaces—hotels, plazas, museums—could shape emotions, influence experiences, and leave lasting impressions. It wasn’t just about buildings; it was about the invisible yet undeniable impact of design.
Trusting that things would align for me in design I decided to take the long road. I enrolled in business school at the University of San Diego, and pursued a Masters in Architecture after. Those years were filled with travel and immersive experiences that still inspire me today.
After school, I returned to San Diego and had the opportunity to work at two very different architecture firms. One was small and family-owned. The other was a larger, corporate firm with multiple offices, and specialized in planning and architecture for education, retail, senior living, and mixed-use projects. I got to dive into different project types and refine my technical abilities.
Those experiences were invaluable. I not only honed my architectural design skills but also applied my business knowledge to help our team expand into new project markets.
The highlight of that chapter was leading our team as project designer for the remodel of the University of San Diego’s three original buildings. In many ways, it felt like everything had come full circle—a moment where experience, passion, and place all aligned.
Sixteen years into my career, with a marriage, two incredible children, and a pandemic that forced a deep reflection on my values in both life and design, I knew it was time. Time to create something that truly aligned with my vision. That’s when I started JN Tropea Design..
Through the years, I kept noticing the same disconnect—design often felt detached from the people it was meant to serve. Spaces were beautiful but lacked the soul of those who lived and worked in them. I wanted to change that. To me, architecture and interior design should seamlessly weave personal and brand cultures into spaces that feel both deeply familiar and beautifully aspirational.
Starting my own studio was both a leap of faith and a natural next step. The practice focuses on creating spaces where architecture and interiors aren’t separate entities but work together in harmony. Every project is shaped by lived experiences, cultural influences, and thoughtful craftsmanship, resulting in spaces that resonate deeply and endure beautifully.
The past four years since founding the studio have been wonderfully fulfilling. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible clients who share my passion for design and culture, with every project reinforcing why I chose this path. Looking back, I am deeply grateful for the experiences that have brought me here, the lessons learned, the risks taken, and the moments when everything seemed to fall into place. This chapter feels like part of a bigger journey, one I am excited to continue exploring
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Anyone who’s ever gone through a home renovation or any construction project knows it’s full of unexpected twists and turns. Discipline, resilience, and passion are key; they’ve definitely helped me navigate this complex profession and industry.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that great design takes time, intention, and patience—not just in the creative process, but in building a business that truly aligns with my values.
While the industry often leans toward trends, I’ve always been more focused on concept-driven, timeless design—work that not only looks good today but continues to feel relevant and deeply personal through the years. Helping clients move beyond fleeting trends and guiding them toward something truly meaningful has been a rewarding challenge.
As a business owner and mom, balancing life has required a lot of adaptability and grace. Thankfully, I’m surrounded by a supportive team and family. And honestly, the focus one can muster in the 30 minutes before you pick up kids from school is nothing short of impressive! These days, life is full, and I am grateful for this moment in my career. It’s been a great mix of creative milestones and precious family moments.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
JN Tropea Design is a full-service architecture and interior design studio specializing in high-end residential, hospitality, and commercial spaces. What makes us different is our belief that every space should truly reflect its owner—whether it’s a personal home that tells a story of a lifetime’s worth of experiences or a brand space that communicates identity, values, and culture.
We’re a team of international professionals, bringing diverse perspectives and global expertise to every project. Our approach blends architecture and interiors seamlessly. Since we specialize in both, we design from the inside out and outside in, ensuring that everything—right down to the smallest detail—feels cohesive. It’s about creating spaces that flow naturally, where exterior materials inform the warmth inside, and the layout supports the rhythms of everyday life.
Here’s what we prioritize: ✔ Concept over trend – We build every design on a solid concept, not on passing styles.
✔ Ease in the process – We walk clients through every step with clarity, advocacy, and open communication.
✔ Longevity & sustainability – Prioritizing high-quality, sustainable materials and thoughtful methods to create projects that will endure.
✔ Deep personalization – Every client’s personal or brand culture is unique, and we’re here to bring that to life in a space.
The core of what we do is build meaningful relationships with our clients. The best projects aren’t just portfolio pieces—they’re the result of shared ideas, conversations, and a mutual vision that becomes reality.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned in both life and design is that staying true to your values brings clarity and purpose. When you are grounded in what truly matters, it shapes every decision, every project, and every relationship. Design then becomes more than just aesthetics; it becomes a way to create spaces that are deeply meaningful and authentic.
I’ve also come to understand that relationships and trust are just as integral to the creative process as the work itself. When clients feel supported, heard, and guided through the journey, the result is a process they enjoy and a space that truly reflects them.
Finally, I’ve learned to prioritize ease. In a world that often glorifies complexity and hustle, real success comes from finding what truly resonates with you. When you align with what matters most, the process feels more natural, the work becomes more meaningful, and the results speak for themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jntropeadesign.com/
- Instagram: @jntropeadesign
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janettetropea/
Image Credits
Jenny Siegwart
