Paula McDonald is an award-winning expert in the design build and construction industry
New York, NY, January 14, 2025, Paula McDonald has been included in Marquis Who’s Who. As in all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Ms. McDonald is a distinguished expert in design and construction, serving as the managing director and founder of Paula McDonald Design Build & Interiors/PMD Development LLC. With over 15 years of experience in her current role, she has established herself as a leader in the industry, creating the project design build plan from concept through completion including budgets, designs, approvals, procurement of materials and management of the construction as per plans that meet her clients’ needs. Although her journey was unconventional and challenging, she has viewed it as an opportunity to carve out a niche for herself, demonstrating that success can emerge from non-traditional routes.
Having lived in Manhattan for over 35 years, Ms. McDonald has developed a profound love for the city, which continues to influence her work. Her expertise has been recognized through numerous achievements and accolades from various businesses and magazines. To date, she has received various service awards, such as her firm being recognized for its success by Houzz, a platform that attracts 45 million users who seek design inspiration and contractors.
Throughout her career, Ms. McDonald has enjoyed significant projects of note, including intricate renovations on various properties. One of her most notable projects was the extensive renovation of a townhouse in Long Island, New York, which involved nearly rebuilding the foundation due to faulty construction from the 1980s. This project included replacing all windows and doors and installing an elevator to enhance both functionality and accessibility in the 3,000-square-foot space. Currently, she is working on a penthouse project, continuing her passion for innovative design solutions.
Along with these noteworthy experiences and accolades, Ms. McDonald holds membership with the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the American Society of Interior Designers, further solidifying her standing in the field. Educationally, she earned a Master of Science in Accounting/Taxation and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arizona, which she completed in 1973. Together, these academic achievements have been instrumental in her success, as they provided a strong foundation in business principles that complement her creative endeavors.
Along with her design and construction designations, Ms. McDonald started her career as a certified public accountant in Manhattan, which underscores her proficiency in financial management—a crucial skill in her entrepreneurial journey. She also holds an active NYC Real Estate Broker’s license to supplement the economic perspective of Manhattan residential renovations. In all she has pursued and accomplished, her determination and perseverance have been key factors in her success. She believes that facing setbacks head-on and making conscious decisions to overcome them are essential for achieving one’s goals.
Specifically, Ms. McDonald’s entrepreneurial spirit was an integral part of her self-made journey, as she worked through school without external financial support. Such an experience shaped her approach to business ownership, which emphasizes careful financial management and realistic expectations as vital components of success. Overall, Ms. McDonald believes that this longevity of the industry is a significant factor in her professional success, as it has allowed her to take on larger and more custom projects with confidence.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Ms. McDonald is actively involved in civic-minded organizations. She volunteers at the Habitat for Humanity and is a patron of the Metropolitan Museum, which demonstrates her commitment to giving back to the community. Her dedication to these causes reflects her broader values of collaboration and social responsibility.
Looking ahead, Ms. McDonald remains optimistic about transforming existing co-ops and condominiums into valuable residential opportunities, despite challenges in the real estate market. Moreover, she envisions growing her firm to about 10 employees to foster a strong team dynamic and aims to expand into townhouse projects while maintaining a collaborative workplace culture where staff shares in the firm’s profits. She is proud of the jobs she has created and notes that, since the inception of her business, several employees have evolved with her enterprise.
For Ms. McDonald, her profession transcends mere design; it is a creative endeavor that enriches the lives of those she serves. She is proud of the positive impact her work has had on the local community and cherishes the long-standing relationships she has maintained within the industry, as these relationships not only enhance her professional journey but also underscore her dedication to supporting the local community, businesses and individuals who contribute to her work.
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