Interior designer and educator Pamela Alcántara Thomas brings a unique international perspective to every project she takes on. With over a decade of experience in both residential and commercial design, Pamela has built her career across the Dominican Republic, Europe, and the United States. In addition to running her design practice, she also shares her expertise as an instructor at Heritage School of Interior Design, guiding students through their own creative journeys. We had the chance to ask Pamela about her career, her business, and what continues to inspire her as both a designer and a teacher.
Can you tell us about your background and career path?
I am a Dominican interior designer with over 10 years of experience, specializing in creating functional and aesthetically rich residential and commercial spaces. My career began with a strong interest in the commercial side of design, which led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree. However, once I started working in the residential field, I discovered my true passion for transforming personal spaces that reflect both style and comfort. Alongside my design practice, I have also shared my knowledge as a university professor in the Dominican Republic, and I am currently an instructor in InDesign and Photoshop at Heritage School of Interior Design. Most recently, I’ve expanded my practice internationally, bringing my expertise and creative vision to new projects and clients.
Tell us about your business, PATH Interior Design.
I founded my design practice PATH Interior Design (an acronym for my name, Pamela Alcántara Thomas) 8 years ago. While it began simply as an acronym, over time it has grown to represent my deeper purpose as a designer: creating a unique path for each client to feel truly at home in spaces that reflect who they are. My primary client base has been in the Dominican Republic, where I’ve developed a strong portfolio of residential and commercial projects. Since relocating to the United States, I’ve been expanding my presence here, building on the work I’ve already done for U.S.-based clients and aiming to further merge and grow my client base internationally.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I’ve always had a strong creative side, which I’ve been able to express in different areas of my life, and design quickly became the natural path where all of those passions converged. Since I was young, I’ve had an eye for detail and a drive for leadership, qualities that inspired me to envision myself as a business owner early on. Creating my own studio gave me the freedom to design with authenticity and to shape spaces that not only look beautiful but also reflect the identity and lifestyle of the people who live in them. My “why” is rooted in the belief that design has the power to transform the way people experience their daily lives, helping them feel comfortable, inspired, and truly at home.
What are your future goals as a business owner in the interior design industry?
My main goal is to continue expanding into the American market, where I am currently establishing myself as an interior designer while maintaining my strong presence in the Dominican Republic. I envision growing a versatile team that can seamlessly manage projects in both Denver and the Dominican Republic, allowing me to serve clients across borders with the same level of creativity and dedication. Ultimately, my aim is to build a practice that is not only international in reach but also consistent in its ability to deliver thoughtful, personalized spaces that reflect each client’s story.
What do you enjoy most about teaching at Heritage School of Interior Design?
One of the things that inspired me to teach at HSID is that I had been following their program for a while and was always impressed by how complete and thoughtfully structured it is. I love that it equips students not only with technical skills but also with the confidence and creativity to succeed in the industry. What I enjoy most is being able to guide students through their own design journey, watching them grow, and helping them discover their unique voice as designers. It’s rewarding to be part of a community that values both professional excellence and personal expression.
What advice would you give to designers just starting out?
Believe in yourself—everyone starts somewhere. No matter how big or small your first project may be, treat it with the same dedication and passion as you would a larger one. Give your best at every stage of the process, because your attitude, professionalism, and commitment are what will truly set you apart in your clients’ eyes. Each project is an opportunity to grow, build trust, and showcase your unique perspective as a designer.
Are there any accomplishments or proud moments you’d like to share?
One of my proudest accomplishments is my experience in Milan, where I had the opportunity to complete my master’s degree in interior design. Studying in a new country opened up my creativity and exposed me to the global design world in a way that truly transformed my perspective. Being so close to some of the biggest brands in the industry was a literal dream come true, something I had envisioned since I was younger. This experience not only strengthened my skills but also deepened my passion for creating spaces that are both innovative and meaningful.
What challenges have you had to overcome to get where you are today?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve had to overcome is leaving my home country, where I had already built a strong career in interior design, to start over in a completely new country, market, and environment. Rebuilding my professional presence from the ground up has pushed me to adapt, learn, and stay resilient. Still, I see it as an opportunity. I’ve proven to myself that I can create a successful path in one market, so why not again in another? This experience has only deepened my passion for design and strengthened my determination to grow.
At Heritage School of Interior Design, we’re proud to have instructors like Pamela who inspire students not just with their skills, but with their passion and perseverance.