WOMEN BUILDING THE FUTURE | BAM SOUTH

MAY 2025

on the cover

Designing a Movement

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

yre Future WOMEN

Crafting Homes That Reflect the Rhythm of Real Life

Redefining Real Estate, One Home at a Time

The Power in Pink

Chief Executive Officer Tamara Bellamy-Breen

Chief Financial Officer William Breen

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DEAR READER FROM OUR EDITOR

Welcome to the next Issue of Built America Magazine — Your Ultimate Showcase of Building Excellence and Innovation Across the Nation. In This Edition of Built America Magazine: Women Building the Future We proudly spotlight the powerhouse women reshaping the construction and design landscape — leaders whose influence extends far beyond the job site, into the communities, homes, and industries they help transform. Simone Bruni of Demo Diva A force of nature in both demolition and empowerment, Simone Bruni’s journey from devastation to dominance has become one of the most iconic stories in construction. Jewel Toned Interiors – Cover Feature Led by visionary duo Joy Lynskey and Jaclyn Szerdi-Morrison, Jewel Toned Interiors brings color, culture, and community- centered design to every project. Their leadership stands as a vibrant testament to how women are not just shaping spaces, but redefining the very aesthetics and functionality of modern living. Mary Montgomery of Carolina Breeze Property Management With a calm yet commanding presence, Mary Montgomery brings both heart and high standards to property management. Her commitment to integrity, tenant relationships, and operational excellence is a model for rising leaders in residential development.

“ We commit to fully inclusive journeying with our collaborators, ensuring their stories are shared with integrity and passion. ” Join us as we explore the journeys of bold women who are redefining what it means to lead in construction, design, and development — with grit, vision, and unwavering purpose.

From

transforming

communities

through property management to breaking barriers in demolition, design, and leadership, this edition celebrates women who aren’t just building structures — they’re building legacies. thoughtful

Warm regards,

The Editorial Team

INSIDE SPECIAL INTEREST

SHE BUILT THIS CITY A Conversation with Bill Litton on Development and Community Impact

24 DEMO DIVA

The Power in Pink

JEWEL TONED INTERIORS

EFFORTLESS DESIGNS

Designing a Movement

CAROLINA BREEZE PM Redefining Real Estate, One Home at a Time

BREATHE DESIGN STUDIO Innovating Spaces, Inspiring Lives

70 EFFORTLESS DESIGNS

Crafting Homes That Reflect the Rhythm of Real Life

CLOSING LINES

86 UPCOMING ISSUE: THE JOURNEY TO NET ZERO PART TWO A Glimpse at our Upcoming Line Up of Impactful Sustainable Construction Groups in Partnership with the Florida Green Building Coalition and Green Built Alliance

JEWEL TONED INTERIORS

BUILT AMERICA RECOMMENDS: SUSTAINABLE BUILDING MATERIALS

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Across the country, women in construction are not just stepping into the industry — they’re reshaping it. With every project, blueprint, and breakthrough, they’re redefining leadership , challenging convention, and laying the foundation for a more inclusive, resilient future. This edition of Built America Magazine celebrates the women who are building more than structures — they’re building movements, careers, communities, and change . From business owners and project managers to designers and tradeswomen, these pioneers are crafting legacies that reach far beyond the job site. What unites them isn’t just skill — it’s vision. A vision for equity, for innovation, and for leaving the industry better than they found it.

Keep reading to meet the women who are turning barriers into blueprints for change.

Since its founding, She Built This City has been more than a nonprofit — it’s been a movement. With a mission to spark interest and create pathways for women, youth, and underserved communities in the skilled trades, the organization has become a catalyst for changing the face of construction and manufacturing. At the heart of She Built This City is a belief in equity through access — that everyone, regardless of gender, zip code, or background, deserves the opportunity to build a future with their own two hands. From hands-on training and mentorship programs to community events and workforce development initiatives, the organization is redefining who belongs on job sites, in boardrooms, and on blueprints. With a focus on sustainability, inclusion, and economic mobility, She Built This City isn’t just filling labor gaps — it’s transforming lives, empowering the next generation of builders, and reshaping the trades from the inside out. Keep reading for powerful insight into how She Built This City is equipping the workforce of tomorrow — and why their mission is more urgent, and more impactful, than ever. S P E C I A L I N T E R E S T: SHE BUILT THIS CITY

Page 16-23

"We have grown fast and furious since our inception," says Latoya Faustin, the Executive Director of She Built This City. "Demi got tired of being the only woman in the room and translated her passion for gender equity into this mission."

Written by: Skylar Grey | Editor in Chief

In an industry where the sound of hammers and drills has long echoed the dominance of men, a powerful revolution is rising. This revolution is driven by an organization with a fierce commitment to gender equity and inclusivity. Founded in 2019 by Demi Knight Clark, a seasoned construction veteran, She Built This City is a nonprofit that is transforming lives by providing women and communities of color with unprecedented opportunities in the skilled trades.

From the outset, the vision for She Built This City was bold and clear: to challenge the gender imbalance in the construction industry by empowering women with the skills and opportunities they deserve. "The initial premise of the organization was women," Faustin explains. "There’s a whole 50% of the population that has typically not been engaged in the skilled trades, not for lack of desire, but for lack of access and on- ramps."

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She Built This City’s programs are designed to cater to different stages of interest and skill development. Their initiatives include youth and community programming, a two- year, full-time Apprenticeship Program where women earn while they learn, focusing on critical home repair. Additionally, they offer a 9-week "Tour of the Trades" Pre- Apprenticeship program, providing an intensive introduction to the various skilled trades. "We offer a 2-year Apprenticeship Program and our 9-week Pre- Apprenticeship, giving participants multiple pathways into the trades," Faustin notes. For those interested in applying for the pre- apprenticeship program, they can do by using this link.

The approach is all-encompassing, starting with girls as young as seven and extending to adult women seeking full-time employment in the trades. "We start at age seven all the way up to hiring women for critical home repair work," Faustin says. "We’re showing little girls how to build with tools and materials that are traditionally seen as part of the trades." By engaging girls at such a young age, She Built This City is not just teaching them how to use a hammer or a drill; they are instilling confidence, ambition, and a sense of belonging in an industry that has historically shut them out. These young girls, once limited to dreaming within the confines of societal expectations, are now envisioning futures as electricians, carpenters, and builders.

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Men are welcome to apply for the programming, and they encourage allies of She Built This City to amplify their mission and vision. Impacting Futures, Building Communities The ripple effect of She Built This City's mission extends beyond individual empowerment—it is about transforming entire communities. Their programs include a two-year, full-time training and What truly sets She Built This City apart is its proactive stance on addressing the industry's needs and gaps. "We need the construction industry to have maternity leave policies, PPE that fits women, and safe job sites," Faustin insists. "If we cannot see the industry move fast enough to meet our needs, we need to be that impetus." This determination is propelling She Built This City towards expansion. apprenticeship model where women earn while they learn, focusing on critical home repair. "Right now, the average cost of our repairs is less than $2,000 per home, and we serve over 100 homes a year," Faustin notes. The organization’s unwavering commitment to quality and community- centric services shines through in their holistic approach. "We make sure that we are fully considering the community that we're serving," Faustin emphasizes. This includes free job training programs, barrier removal support, and wraparound services like on-site child supervision. Shaping the industry’s future

Faustin envisions a future where the organization not only trains women but also competes as a subcontractor in the industry. "We will be the diverse subcontractors that project needs. If you don't step up your game, we're going to take your business."

Future an entrepreneurship program to help women who graduate from their training programs start their own businesses. This initiative will reinvest in the ecosystem of Minority Women- Owned Business Enterprises (MWMBEs), fostering a sustainable model of empowerment and economic growth. A Call to Action plans include launching

The Future of She Built This City

Looking forward, She Built This City is poised for remarkable growth. The organization aims to expand its project scope and continue its push for gender and racial equity in the trades. "There is room for growth. There's a woman out there who needs a job, and we have a job for her. She just doesn't know we exist," Faustin says passionately.

Faustin’s message to the industry is unambiguous: "Are you creating an environment that's welcoming for women?”

“It's not for the sake of having a DEI pillar. It's the job force here. You need this."

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In Faustin’s own words, "We’re coming. If we can't foster change otherwise, we will foster change by becoming your competition." With leaders like Latoya Faustin at the helm, the future looks promising for women in construction, and the industry itself stands to benefit from this transformative change. She Built This City is not just an organization; it’s a movement towards a more inclusive, equitable, and skilled construction industry.

She Built This City is building more than just structures; they are constructing;

Join us in this mission – She Built This City is not just changing the industry, They’re building a new future.

For more information, visit She Built This City’s website at https://www.shebuiltthiscity.org.

Built America Magazine | South

The Power in Pink

In the chaos that followed Hurricane Katrina, amid flooded streets and gutted neighborhoods, a woman in New Orleans picked up a five-gallon paint bucket, sa t down inside her ruined home, and made a decision that would change her life—and her city—forever.

That woman was Simone Bruni. And that moment? It was the birth of Demo Diva.

“I started in demolition not out of passion,” Simone reflects, “but out of compassion.” With her event planning career washed away and no cavalry arriving to save her, Simone rolled up her sleeves, leaned into her roots, and decided to help. “My house was flooded. I was single, laid off, no job, no plan. I had no man to save me, no children to put first. But what I did have was time—and I had heart.” From that wreckage emerged a story of resilience so deeply rooted in the soil of New Orleans that Demo Diva isn’t just a company—it’s a symbol of hope. Simone didn’t come from a background in construction. She had no experience with heavy machinery. She didn’t know a skid steer from a saw blade. But what she did know was people. Community. And branding. “What I always say is I didn’t sell demolition—I sold trust,” she said. “I was your neighbor. I lived on your street. I said, ‘Trust me, I’ll help you.’” Armed with a $30 box of business cards, a set of hot pink car magnets, and yard signs staked into the mud, Simone pounded the pavement—offering not demolition, but dignity. “Behind every demolition, there’s emotion,” she explained. ”

“A family’s history. A sacred space. A lifetime of memories. I wanted to be the one who saw that, honored that. That heart-driven ethos became the foundation of Demo Diva, and it’s what has kept the company thriving for nearly two decades. While others who entered the industry after Katrina have disappeared, Demo Diva is still standing— proudly, unapologetically pink. Faith in the Rubble “God equips the called,” “He doesn’t call the equipped.”

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Her pink dumpsters—rolling billboards of empowerment—have become a fixture in New Orleans. Children point from the backseat: “Mom, it’s the Demo Diva!” Women snap photos. Men stop at gas stations to shake her hand. She is, as one bank teller whispered in awe, “an icon.” But she’s not in it for the applause. “I’ve never chased money,” she said. “My business is my lifestyle. It lets me go into neighborhoods others won’t. It lets me sit on porches with grandmothers, hear their stories, cry with them, and honor the lives they’ve built.” Emotional Intelligence Meets Excavator Steel

“God equips the called,” Simone was told once. “He doesn’t call the equipped.”

It’s a phrase that resonates, especially when she considers how far she’s come. From t hat first tear-down job to standing today in the shadow of massive 40,000-square-foot retreat centers crumbling under the might of her six Volvo excavators and 200 pink dumpsters, Simone has grown not just a business—but a movement. There’s no generational wealth here. No silent partner. No co-signer. “My father, who’s Brazilian and traditional, didn’t support me entering a man’s industry,” she shared. “No one loaned me money. No one paved the way. This was built with literal blood, sweat, tears— and the trust of my community.”

Simone Bruni | President

It’s rare to speak of emotional intelligence and demolition in the same breath—but that’s the Demo Diva difference. Simone tells the story of a group of aging nuns whose sacred retreat center had been desecrated by time and trespassers. “They told me they’d prayed there for 40 years. It was holy ground to them. And so, I told them, we’ll save the bricks. We’ll build you a garden. We’ll mount the cross somewhere new. We’ll give your grief a place to rest.” And she did. For Demo Diva, a job isn’t complete when the building is gone—it’s complete when the people left behind are whole.

“We are the pink cavalry, after war, after storms— Demo Diva shows up with excavators and empathy. That’s the dream.”

Her mantra: community over contracts, legacy over landfill.

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It’s why so many churches, schools, and nonprofits return to her again and again. “At Xavier University, after we demolished a number of their buildings, I came back and said, ‘Let me build you a bench for your prayer garden.’ That’s who we are.” Building a Business— One Sacred Structure at a Time Though demolition remains the core, the company has expanded to include asbestos abatement,

scrap metal recovery, concrete recycling, and a flourishing dumpster rental division. “Those pink dumpsters are a whole second business,” Simone laughed. “And people love them more than the demo.”

But perhaps her proudest achievement has been building a team she believes in.

“My Vice Presidents, Alyssa Wernet and Robert Weatherington, have revolutionized the way we work. From administration to field operations, they’ve set a standard of excellence.”

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Robert introduced a fully outfitted 24- foot tool trailer—complete with charging stations, microwave, and fridge—that not only str eamlined efficiency but boosted morale. “The guys love it. They warm their lunches, recharge their tools, and huddle each morning around it for safety talks. It’s a game changer.” This emphasis on structure, organization, and safety has become Demo Diva’s calling card. “We want five stars on every job,” Simone said. “That’s our bar.” More Than Machinery: A Mission in Motion As national expansion, Simone is working with a licensing agency to bring her brand of bold, beautiful, compassionate Demo Diva eyes construction to new shor es. The goal? A national fleet of pink machinery rolling in post-disaster, not just with shovels—but with hope. “We are the pink cavalry,” she said. “After war, after storms—Demo Diva shows up with excavators and empathy. That’s the dream.” She’s also developing a lifestyle brand for women in construction—safety gear and workwear that’s both functional and feminine. “I’m tired of having to shop at Carhartt or Dickies. We’re creating gear for women, by women. It’s time.”

“Sometimes, I call my mom and tell her I want to quit. I want to braid hair on the beach,” Simone laughed. “But I can’t. I love my city. I love this work. And I love the people it allows me to serve.” From sitting on stoops in underserved neighborhoods, to salvaging sacred crosses for nuns, to becoming a role model for young girls who see her pink dumpsters and realize they, too, can be the boss—Simone Bruni is more than a demolition contractor. 32 A Life Not Measured in Money, But in Meaning

She is a builder of trust. A preserver of legacy. A woman in construction who is forging a new narrative—one pink dumpster at a time. “Business is just a vehicle to do good in your community,” she said quietly. “That’s what I believe. That’s why I’m still here.” And that’s who Simone Bruni is—more than a Demo Diva. She’s a woman who turned rubble into renewal, a voice of hope in steel-toed boots, and a living testament to the kind of strength that doesn’t just rebuild structures— but rebuilds trust, dignity, and the soul of a city.

Written by Skyler Grey Editor in Chief Built America Magazine

Built America Magazine | South

Designing More Than Spaces, Designing a Movement

There are firms that design spaces. And then, there are firms that reshape the way we think about space itself.

Jewel Toned Interiors is one of the latter.

Founded by Joy Lynskey and co-led by Jaclyn Szerdi-Morrison, this woman- owned interior design firm has not only earned acclaim for its thoughtful, wellness-focused spaces—but for the values that breathe through every room, every project, every decision. The company began, humbly, in a guest bedroom. One client. One table. One vision: to do things differently. “I knew there had to be a better way,” Joy said. “I’d seen the burnout. I’d seen the disregard—for employees, for clients, for human connection. I believed it was possible to create beauty and humanity in the same room.” From that belief, a business was born— not fast, not flashy—but grounded. Deep- rooted. Intentional. Today, JTI serves projects across the U.S. in sectors ranging from luxury multi- family and hospitality to wellness and workplace design. But their greatest success? It may just be in how they’ve chosen to build—not just structures, but relationships. Not just a business, but a legacy.

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Designed for Harmony, Not Perfection

In the entrepreneurial world, we hear a lot about “balance.” Work-life balance. Growth vs. personal time. Family vs. ambition. But Joy and Jaclyn approach this differently. “We don’t really believe in the word ‘balance,’” said Joy. “It sets up an impossible standard. Harmony is a better word. You do your best to be present—fully present—in whatever moment you’re in. Sometimes it’s motherhood. Sometimes it’s a meeting. Sometimes, it’s just allowing yourself to rest.” As women building a business in a historically male-dominated space, the challenges were undeniable. But so were the moments of clarity, resilience, and grace that came along the way. From navigating the demands of leadership while raising young children to supporting one another through personal losses and professional pivots, Joy and Jaclyn never saw their identities as women as a limitation. Instead, they made it part of the design. “The experiences we’ve had— they’re what give us depth,” said Jaclyn. “They’re what make our leadership compassionate, our communication honest, and our work more meaningful.”

“We don’t walk into a project with a signature look. We walk in with curiosity.”

Image By: Joaquin Anico Photos By JA.

Built America Magazine | South

Their presence in this space is powerful. Not because they push louder. But because they lead differently. Listening as a Design Tool At Jewel Toned Interiors, the process doesn’t begin with mood boards or swatches. It begins with questions. “Listening is our most important design tool,” said Joy. “We don’t walk into a project with a signature look. We walk in with curiosity.” Whether it’s a luxury office space, a wellness facility, or a residential community, the team’s first priority is understanding what success looks like for that client.

Sometimes, the client knows. Often, they don’t—yet.

That’s where the JTI Gems — JTI’s trusted and talented team — truly shine. Handpicked for their skill and heart, they work as one to turn questions into clarity and vision into reality. “Designing isn't just about how a space looks,” said Jaclyn. “It’s about how it feels. How it functions. How it honors the people who inhabit it.” “Designing isn't just about how a space looks,” said Jaclyn. “It’s about how it feels. How it functions. How it honors the people who inhabit it.” They ask the tough questions. They interview employees, tenants, stakeholders. They study workflow, lighting, acoustics. They make design feel less like a service—and more like a sacred exchange. And then, they deliver. Seamlessly. Soulfully. 39

Image By: Joaquin Anico Photos By JA.

Built America Magazine | South

Image By: Michael Murphy Michael Murphy Photographic Studio& Gallery, Inc.

Signature Projects With Purpose

Another defining project is the global headquarters for beauty brand MONAT, located in Doral, Florida. The three-story, 52,000-square-foot transformation focused heavily on wellness design, sustainability, and biophilic integration. “We curated every detail—from light and color to energy efficiency and ergonomic flow,” Joy said. “We helped them earn the WELL Health-Safety Seal. That kind of recognition isn’t just for optics. It means the space works—for the people in it, and the planet around it.”

One of JTI’s most powerful examples of values in action is their work with ARC Culinary, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with disabilities through culinary training. The project—a multi-functional kitchen and event space—wasn’t just about aesthetics. “It was about creating a space where dignity could flourish,” Jaclyn said. “Where their mission could come alive in every material, every layout, every finish.”

Image By: Michael Murphy Michael Murphy Photographic Studio& Gallery, Inc.

Building Trust, Not Just Buildings

Image by: Graciela Valdes

Great design may start with vision—but it’s realized through collaboration. “Our general contractors are incredibly important,” said Joy. “Our work starts as ideas—visions on paper. But they’re the ones who help us bring it to life. When they value our input at every turn, the result is something the client truly connects with.” Their vendor relationships are curated with as much care as their clients. Every partner is chosen for integrity, communication, and craftsmanship. “We’re not just sending a list and waiting for quotes,” Jaclyn added. “We’re engaging. We’re aligning expectations. We’re making sure the client experience is seamless, even when there are challenges behind the scenes.”

Joy Lynskey | Jaclyn Szerdi-Morrison

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Image By: Joaquin Anico Photos By JA.

Built America Magazine | South JTI something rare in the industry: deep, enduring trust. Many of their projects come from repeat clients and referrals —especially from general contractors, a testament to the strength of their collaboration. This approach has earned Women Elevating Women Perhaps the most inspiring part of Jewel Toned Interiors isn’t the design at all. It’s the culture. At the heart of the firm is a team affectionately known as “The Gems” — a name chosen intentionally to reflect how each member is both one-of-a- kind and deeply valued. The JTI Gems don’t just contribute to projects — they shape them. They bring diverse perspectives, collaborative energy, and a shared belief in doing things differently. Together, they create space not only for clients, but for each other, to grow, rise, and shine. “We’re working on an affiliate mentorship program for emerging women-led firms,” Jaclyn revealed. “Just like we’ve poured into our own team, we want to support other designers who are just starting out— who need guidance, tools, or simply someone to believe in them.”

“This wasn’t built alone. It was built by our Gems”

Image By: Michael Murphy Michael Murphy Photographic Studio& Gallery, Inc.

“We’ve had phenomenal women cheer us on,” said Joy. “And we’ve had men— mentors, supervisors—who stood beside us. It’s important to acknowledge both. Because this wasn’t built alone. It was built by our Gems — and by those who believed in us before we believed in ourselves.” What Comes Next The future of Jewel Toned Interiors is not just a continuation. It’s an expansion. From their mentorship program to new commercial collaborations across the country, Joy and Jaclyn are scaling with soul.

They are growing without compromising. Dreaming without disconnecting.

“We don’t want to be the biggest firm,” Joy said.

“We want to be the one people remember— for how we made them feel, how we elevated their vision, how we treated our team, our clients, and our partners.” They’re living proof that leadership doesn’t have to be loud to be heard. It just has to be rooted. And in an industry still catching up to the power of feminine leadership, Jewel Toned Interiors is not just ahead of the curve.

They are the curve.

More Than Design

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This feature isn’t just about two women in construction. It’s about a philosophy that redefines what success looks like: not just in square footage or style, but in service. In spirit. It’s about a team that listens before it leads. Who honors beauty, but never at the expense of functionality. Who bring their full selves—compassion, resilience, humility—to every conversation, every client, every room. And it’s about the spaces they leave behind—crafted not to impress, but to empower. Jewel Toned Interiors isn’t just building places to live or work. They’re building places to belong. And that? That’s the kind of design that changes the world. To explore more of Jewel Toned Interiors’ work or connect with the JTI Gems, visit: www.jeweltoned.com

Written by Skyler Grey | Editor in Chief Built America Magazine

“Designing isn't just about how a space looks, it’s about how it feels. How it functions. How it honors the people who inhabit it.”

Image By: Michael Murphy Michael Murphy Photographic Studio& Gallery, Inc.

Carolina Breeze Property Management Redefining Real Estate, One Home at a Time

It didn’t start with a plan. It started with a property.

“I was immediately hooked,” she said. “I didn’t want to sell homes. I wanted to manage them. I loved the moving parts, the behind-the-scenes work. I loved being the reason things stayed running.” From that single investment property, Mary began building something far bigger than a side hustle. She was laying the foundation for a company—and a second career—that would reshape her life and positively impact hundreds of others. From One Home to a Housing Network What began as a single rental quickly snowballed into a full-fledged company: Carolina Breeze Property Management, an operation rooted in service, local knowledge, and a whole lot of hustle.

What began as a single rental turned out to be the spark that lit a whole new path forward for Mary Montgomery. In 2012, long before Carolina Breeze Property Management had grown into a trusted, well-connected force in South Carolina’s real estate market, Mary bought her first rental property. She was still contracting in the medical field at the time, and had no long-term plan to leap into property management. But something about the process—the renovations, the conversations, the satisfaction of handing someone the keys to their next home—struck a deep chord.

Built America Magazine | South

“We were tiny at first. It was very hands-on, very grassroots,” Mary recalled. “But every property taught me something new—about people, about systems, about what makes someone feel at home.” After retiring from medicine, she turned her full attention to Carolina Breeze. Her initial goal—passive income—evolved into something much more ambitious. “I realized this wasn’t just about making money. This was about creating a business I believed in. A business where people mattered.” Over the years, the company has grown in both scale and sophistication. With properties spread across North Augusta, Batesburg, Aiken, and Augusta, GA, the firm now manages a diverse portfolio of single- family and small multi-family homes—while still operating with the personal touch of a boutique agency.

A Mobile Business with Deep Roots

Unlike many property management firms that operate from polished high-rises or centralized headquarters, Carolina Breeze is something different. It’s fast, it’s flexible, and it’s almost always on the move. “We joke that our office is our car,” Mary laughed. “We spend more time on the road than behind a desk—dropping off supplies, meeting tenants, checking on repairs. That’s just how we work.” That agility is part of the firm’s DNA. While many companies rely heavily on automation and large-scale infrastructure, Mary has leaned into the power of local relationships, hands-on involvement, and intuitive service.

Clients Who Become Partners And her market reach? It’s tightly focused, by design. “Most of our clients are based right here in South Carolina. We know these neighborhoods. We know the people. That’s our strength.” Carolina Breeze’s clientele is as diverse as the properties they manage—but there’s a common thread: trust. The majority of their clients are individual property owners—landlords with one or several properties who prefer a hands-on but hassle-free approach. These owners rely on Carolina Breeze to be their eyes, ears, and advocates on the ground.

“Some of our clients live here. Some live several states away,” Mary explained. “What they all have in common is that they want someone who knows this area, who cares about the property like it’s their own.” operates exclusively with private owners, not corporate entities or government clients— and Mary prefers it that way. Currently, the company “It allows us to be more personal. We’re not working through red tape. We’re working directly with people. And that’s what I love.” More Than a Service —A Strategy

MARY MONTGOMERY | OWNER

Built America Magazine | South

What sets Carolina Breeze apart isn’t just their responsiveness or their reliability. It’s their custom-fit approach. “No cookie-cutter contracts here,” Mary said. “Every client is different. Every property is different. We build a management plan around them.” Think of it as property management à la carte. Instead of paying for bloated service bundles, clients can select only what they need—saving money and optimizing care. “We have lower overhead, and we pass those savings along. Why pay for ten services when you only need five?” This tailored approach has earned the company a fiercely loyal client base—and a steady stream of referrals.

Managing with Heart —and Hustle “We don't advertise much,” Mary admitted. “Almost all of our business comes from word of mouth.” Being a woman in property management hasn’t always been easy—but it’s shaped Mary’s leadership in all the right ways. “In this field, especially in the South, you don’t see a lot of women running property management companies,” she said. “But I think being a woman has been an advantage. We lead with empathy. We listen. We know how to multitask, and we don’t miss the details.”

Built America Magazine | South

Mary’s approach to tenant and owner relationships is built on transparency, consistency, and integrity. “We keep communication open—always,” she said. “If there’s an issue, we address it. If a tenant needs something, we respond. People don’t want perfection. They want someone who cares.” That mindset has made Carolina Breeze a go-to firm not only for homeowners, but also for former tenants—many of whom circle back months or even years later to work with Mary again.

Relationships First, Always “That’s the best compliment we could get,” she said. “When someone moves away and then calls us to say they’re back in town and want to rent through us again—it means we did something right.” 55 Mary’s not just managing buildings—she’s managing relationships. With tenants. With vendors. With her own team. And, perhaps most critically, with the property owners who trust her with their investments.

Built America Magazine | South

“We believe in building partnerships,” she said. “Owners should feel like we’re in this with them. And they do.” That trust is built slowly—through follow- through, honesty, and a deep commitment to doing what’s right even when it’s hard. “We’ll never overpromise,” Mary said. “But we’ll always overdeliver.” And that attitude extends to her network of vendors. Over the years, Mary has cultivated relationships with a tight-knit team of local maintenance professionals, contractors, and suppliers—people she trusts to get the job done right. “There’s no middleman here,” she said. “When a property needs something, we know exactly who to call. These are people I’ve worked with for years. I know their quality. I know their pricing. And our clients benefit from that.” Built by Grit, Guided by Grace Mary’s journey from healthcare to housing isn’t just a career pivot—it’s a masterclass in resilience. In vision. In what happens when a woman listens to her instincts and dares to build something of her own. “I didn’t go to business school. I didn’t come from real estate,” she said. “I came from passion. From problem- solving. From wanting to create something that worked for real people.” And that’s exactly what she’s done. Carolina Breeze isn’t the biggest firm.

And in an industry built on transactions, Mary’s built a business on connection. “I’m proud of what we’ve built,” she said. “But I’m even more proud of how we’ve built it.”

The Future of Carolina Breeze

As for what’s next?

Mary’s not rushing to scale for the sake of growth. Her goal is thoughtful expansion— adding more properties and owners who align with her values, bringing on new team members when the time is right, and continuing to serve the South Carolina and Georgia regions with the same care that’s fueled her company from day one.

But it’s one of the most trusted.

The name Carolina Breeze wasn’t chosen by accident. It’s a metaphor for everything Mary Montgomery believes business should be: fresh, steady, and rooted in clarity. In a world of hard sells and corporate jargon, Carolina Breeze is a welcome change. It's personal. It's principled. And, above all, it’s proven. One property at a time. One relationship at a time. One woman’s vision—turned into reality .

Written by Skyler Grey Editor in Chief Built America Magazine

“I’m not chasing size,” she said. “I’m chasing sustainability. I want to keep doing good work. Keep building relationships. Keep making a difference.” And, of course, continue paving the way for other women in property management to rise. “There’s so much opportunity in this industry,” she said. “Women belong here. As owners. As leaders. As decision-makers. And the more we show up, the more we change what this space looks like —for everyone.” A Breath of Fresh Air in Property Management

Innovating Spaces, Inspiring Lives.

The Artistry of Attention:

Inside Breathe Design Studio's Transformative Spaces In the bustling heart of Austin, Texas, where innovation intertwines with tradition, there exists a sanctuary of design that is redefining modern aesthetics. Breathe Design Studio, under the visionary guidance of Christine Ho, is not just crafting spaces; it's sculpting experiences that resonate on an emotional plane. Christine Ho’s journey into the realm of design was anything but conventional. "I've been working in the construction industry since 2014," she reflects, a hint of nostalgia coloring her voice. It all began with a personal project —designing her own custom home. This endeavor was a catalyst, propelling her into a world where her innate talent could flourish. "The creation of the company started after I designed my own custom home," Christine recounts. The home wasn't merely a personal milestone; it became a beacon that attracted the attention of industry professionals. "I was approached by the architect of the home to photograph it, and then ended up with a plethora of press. We ended up on a home tour, got a cover of a magazine, a series of magazines internationally."

Christine Ho, Owner

People began seeking her expertise, and as requests poured in, Christine recognized a calling. "From there, I was able to hire a team of experienced designers, a business coach, and was able to start Breathe Design."

A Vision Rooted in Collaboration

From its inception, Breathe Design Studio was built on a foundation of collaboration and a deep understanding of client needs. Christine's approach is both personal and profound. "Initially, I had a clear vision," she explains. "I've always been really drawn to a contemporary and modern aesthetic." But beyond the allure of sleek lines and minimalist elegance, Christine emphasizes the human element. "For me, it was very much driven by the spirit of collaboration and getting to know the client," she says earnestly.

This unexpected acclaim was a testament to her natural affinity for design.

"Not just how it looks but also the functionality and getting to know them in terms of the way that they live."This philosophy transforms each project into a narrative, a story woven from the threads of her clients' lives. "We are able to really capture their style and then be a guide for them," Christine adds. "That collaboration could be done from beginning to end, from the client to the collaboration with the general contractors and the various parties, to make sure that it was done very well." The Transformative Power of Detail One cannot discuss Breathe Design Studio without delving into Christine's meticulous attention to detail—a hallmark that sets her work apart. She recalls a poignant moment that encapsulates this ethos. "We once had a builder who, when he finally came on the final day to photograph,

he actually was brought to tears," she recounts, her voice tinged with both pride and humility. "I was really surprised because, he's usually not an emotional man." In a profession where stoicism often reigns, the builder's reaction was profound. "He said that in the 25 years of him doing this, he had never once imagined that his project could look like that." What elicited such a response? Christine believes it was the uncompromising dedication to perfection. "It's because of how detail-oriented we were," she explains. "Every single painting was placed within the inch of where it belonged. Every coffee table book, every mug, every candle. Every angle is controlled in terms of photography. Things are moved within the inch." This is not mere obsessiveness; it's an artistry that elevates the ordinary to the extraordinary. "That attention to detail just makes all the difference when it comes to marketing materials, when it comes to being able to get a project into a magazine," she notes. Christine is unabashed about this level of commitment. "Some might say it's a little bit excessive— that's what sets you apart," she acknowledges.

"I just really care. It matters to me beyond just a job. Even if nobody saw it, it's just how it would need to be." Setting a New Standard In an industry saturated with talent, Breathe Design Studio distinguishes itself not just through aesthetic excellence but through an unwavering dedication to client experience and partnership. This success is not incidental; it's the result of strategic thinking and an understanding of broader market dynamics. "We really think about your project from a photography standpoint," she explains. "How it's going to read to not only your buyer but also from a marketing perspective, from a social media perspective, from a website perspective." Such foresight benefits all stakeholders. "We will coordinate, and we will write the press release and include them in it," Christine says. "Part of the collaboration is bringing it to the final process, completion, and then sharing that work with our partners and the people who helped us execute." Building Relationships that Last At the core of Breathe Design Studio's philosophy is the cultivation of enduring relationships—be it with clients, builders, or tradespeople. "I think our reviews are strong," Christine mentions modestly.

Listening, in Christine's view, is an art form. It's about more than just hearing words; it's about understanding aspirations and anxieties alike. "Recognizing that my role is really to be a guide," she says, "to listen to them and understand what it is that their vision is for this space and how to help them best utilize it." This respect extends to every individual involved in a project. "One of the things that we do is remember that our trades are actually people," she emphasizes. "We try to be as respectful as we can to them, as human beings, and recognize that they have a lot going on." The Atomic Ranch Project: A Testament to Excellence Perhaps no project better exemplifies Breathe Design Studio's capabilities than the ambitious Atomic Ranch Project House. "This project in particular was really a labor of love," Christine reflects. The scope was immense and exacting. "Every inch of that house was fair game to be photographed, and it was photographed over six issues," she explains. "We had to creatively come up with something different in every single room, on every wall, in every bathroom." This required an extraordinary level of planning and execution. The payoff was equally monumental. "By being able to accomplish that, to get so many images out of it across social media and on three different covers across two different magazines—it's been a labor of love, but it's one that's really paid off for us." 65

The project's success had ripple effects. "The builder got a lot of publicity and marketing," Christine shares. "He sold the house very quickly for much more than he has sold any of his other homes for." A Future of Thoughtful Growth Looking ahead, Christine envisions growth that is both strategic and mindful. "I think there's room to grow," she says thoughtfully. "I think slow and steady wins the race." Her aspirations include expanding into new sectors without compromising the integrity of her work. "I am interested in moving into the boutique hotel hospitality space," she reveals. "Our projects remind us of boutique hotels because of how unique different spaces are in the same home.”

But growth is not merely about scaling up; it's about deepening impact. "I want to make sure that we keep the quality control and that we don't start diluting the actual design itself and the level of detail and thoughtfulness," Christine asserts. The Essence of Collaboration At every turn, Christine returns to the theme of collaboration—an intricate dance between vision, execution, and human connection. "We recognize that their jobs are really hard," she says of the general contractors and builders. "What we want to provide for them is stability through our documentation, so that we can make their lives as easy as possible."

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