Brightwork is defined as the exposed and polished wood or metal of a boat. The name Brightwork is a nod to my past as a Naval Officer. In my new career, I take great joy in combining the attention to detail and problem solving skills that I gained in my previous profession with the creativity and artistry that I practiced during my design education.  

My first career as a Naval Officer started at the U.S. Naval Academy where I graduated as a member of the class of 2000 with a degree in Political Science. I then served as a Surface Warfare Officer onboard two U.S. Navy Destroyers: USS OLDENDORF (DD-972) and USS FLECHER (DD-992) as the Damage Control Assistant and Navigator. My final assignment was teaching Leadership to Midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy.

I left active duty in January of 2005 to pursue my second career as a Stay-at-home Mom to my husband (Mark, a fellow USNA Grad) and my growing family. It is the most meaningful job that I ever had or will have, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent so many years at home with our three children. During that time I was an compulsive volunteer (coach, PTA, HOA…,) and once my youngest was in school, I also started to work part time for a local custom home builder as their Selections Coordinator. It was during this time that I was introduced to the world of Interior Design, and I quickly realized how much I loved it!

Because I strongly believe in the value of a strong educational foundation, I decided to pursue a degree in Interior Design. I started taking classes at part time at Anne Arundel Community College in the Spring of 2018 and graduated with my A.A.S. in the Spring of 2021. To celebrate the completion of my degree, I embarked on my third career and started Brightwork Interior Design in July of 2021.

I live in Millersville, Maryland with my husband and three teenage children. In addition to my love for all things design, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading/audiobooks, traveling, enjoying the beauty of nature, and going to the theater.

- Lauren Symmes, Owner/Designer