Mother's Day Series
A closer look at the women balancing careers, family, and everything in between.
Meet Grace Ungarean
Grace is a lighting designer at GMLD based in Dallas, TX, working on luxury hospitality and high-end residential projects while raising two young daughters. Her days move between job sites, client meetings, and home life, all with a sense of intention that carries through everything she does.
In her own words, Grace on balancing career, motherhood, and daily life. Continue reading, then explore her curated Luxeire picks at the end.
What do you do, and what do you genuinely love about it?
I am an architectural lighting designer specializing in luxury hospitality and high end residential projects. It brings me great pleasure to collaborate with talented designers on amazing projects. Integrating and programming the lighting into a well design space is a magical process to be a part of.
What’s something about your job people don’t see or think about?
Great lighting often goes unnoticed—and that’s the point. When done well, it creates an emotional, immersive experience. It quietly connects architecture, materials, and interiors, bringing everything to life as one cohesive story.
GMLD lighting design, Ritz Carlton Reserve Nekajui, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
How has becoming a mom changed the way you move through your day?
I move with intention. Whether it’s shifting from a work call to princess dress-up, turning a lighting mock-up into a game, or carving out one-on-one time with each of my girls—every moment has purpose. And above all, I have learned to give myself grace.
What’s been the hardest part of being a working mom lately, and what’s been the most rewarding?
The hardest part is giving myself patience and recognizing all that I am managing. The most rewarding is stepping back and realizing the life we’re building—and hearing “I am proud of you, Mom.” There’s nothing better.
What does a typical day look like for you, from start to finish?
My mornings start early—coffee, make breakfast for the girls, followed by being a hair stylist for a very opinionated 3 year old client. Once our nanny arrives, I take a moment to get ready in something polished but practical—pieces that can handle a full day of site walks, climbing ladders, and long hours while still feeling elevated for client meetings. From there, it is off to the office or a job site. Evenings are my favorite—walks with my girls, family dinner, and resetting
for the next day.
What’s something you’re really proud of right now?
I am most proud of my girls, Ella Rose (3) and Arabella (1). Watching them start to play and connect brings so much joy. I am exceptionally proud of how I have developed professionally on an award winning team while evolving in my greatest role as “Mom”.
What do you throw on when you need to get out the door quickly and still feel put together?
I reach for breathable, tailored pieces with a minimalist edge—clean lines, a quiet palette, and fabrics that move with me. My days can jump from client meetings to walking expansive sites or climbing ladders to aim fixtures, so I need ease without sacrificing intention. I also believe in dressing in dialogue with the project’s aesthetic—it’s part of the design language. Effortless, elevated, and ready to move.
Shop Grace's Look
Shop Grace's Look
What’s one thing you’d tell another woman trying to balance work and motherhood?
You are doing more than you realize—give yourself grace and trust your rhythm. You’re showing up, building something meaningful, and carrying so much with strength and care.
