We Asked . . . Laura Kelley

Q: How did you become interested in the construction business?

A: During my schooling in interior design, I took a class in architectural construction and it gave me a whole new perspective on design. I felt like I was missing something when it came to interior design. It wasn't until I was an intern for my current employer (Rock Creek Craftsmen) that I truly became interested in construction.

Q: What do you like about it?

A: I like the structure of construction (no pun intended). Organization is a huge part of the construction field and I like to organize. I also like being able to see a design come to life. Construction professionals are the ones that help make a piece of paper a reality.

Q: Dislike?

A: I dislike the misconception that one must be a big, burly man to work in the construction industry. Actually, my size has not been an issue. In fact, my size can be a big advantage. I fit into a lot of smaller spaces, which always seem to come up in downtown Charleston.

Q: Why historic restoration?

A: We can always build new structures, but old structures tell a story. Historical structures tell the story of the city and the people who lived there and how they lived. We need to preserve that story.

Q: Do you know of many other women in construction?

A: Yes, however, the ratio of women to men in this field is small. Women do have great support throughout the country; one being the National Association of Women in Construction. I am joining the Charleston Chapter.

Q: What's it like being a female in a male-dominated field?

A: The only time I really notice that I am looked upon differently is when I am at a materials supply store or the occasional client. I usually receive questioning or doubtful looks. When that happens I just smile, laugh a little and say "Yup, I'm in construction."

Q: When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A: I went from wanting to be an actress (a small part of me still does), to an FBI agent, and then, finally, finding my way to the design field during college.

Q: What kind of painting do you do, and what do you paint?

A: I paint with mostly oils, but also dabble in some acrylic work. My subjects are usually animals, bugs or flowers. I paint them close up and personal, with lots of color.

Q: You mentioned you're a foodie. What's your favorite place to eat?

A: Lana's, by far. It's a great Mediterranean restaurant with a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere.

Q: What do you do to stay in shape?

A: I stay in shape by running on the treadmill like a little gerbil. I must say I hate exercising, but my Italian heritage is catching up with me (I like food). Hence, running on the treadmill like a gerbil.

Q: If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

A: I'm torn about that. My heart will always be here in Charleston, but I have always wanted to live in D.C., but not forever.

Q: What accomplishment are you proudest of?

A: My proudest accomplishment is finishing my first complex construction project; which is the restoration of Magnolia Plantation's Slave Cabins (by Rock Creek Craftsmen).

Q: What event has affected your life the most?

A: My mother donating a kidney to my stepfather when I was a junior in high school. This experience has really made me appreciate life and family. It helped me see how strong I am. It has been very hard for me to balance work, interest, aspirations and family.