Lilly

aka Lils, Lillski, Lillyhammer, jerky thief

Want to boost productivity, increase creativity, reduce stress, and improve relationships among human coworkers? Hire a dog.

That’s right, pet-friendly offices such as Hofmann Architecture are a growing trend of “going to the dogs,” and for good reason. Allowing four-legged employees into the workplace can be beneficial to the bottom line, boost morale and productivity, and even attract customers.

This year, Hofmann Architecture, hired Lilly as our first Director of Goodness (DOG). She’s been one of our most inspirational and consistent new hires of the year. The only thing is she has a habit of sleeping on the job – a lot!

Hm-m-m-m-m-m, maybe she’s on to something?

Hofmann Architecture: Please tell us a little about yourself.

Lilly: I was born and raised on the East Coast before I joined my owner, Joanna, traveling out West to California a couple of years ago. Pedigree-wise, I’m a Lab/Pointer mix. Some people say I’m a rescue dog, but I rescue people.

Hofmann Architecture: How did you find us?

Lilly: Living in Santa Barbara and working at this job were a calling for me. I love the way everyone is so happy. Hofmann Architecture truly is a positive place to work.

Hofmann Architecture: What do you do here?

Lilly: My job title is Director of Goodness – DOG for short. My job is to check-in on each staffer first thing in the morning and make sure everyone is ready to design and build amazing Airstreams. I give each person a good solid nudge on their leg with my head, then I’ll lick their hand. Later that morning, I join them for break and then lunch in the picnic area. After a nap, Lauren or Maitlyn will usually chill out with me on the synthetic grass and scratch my tummy. I think it helps relax them after a busy morning and gets them recharged for the afternoon.

Hofmann Architecture: What has it been like working for Hofmann Architecture?

Lilly: I love it. I came from a pretty rough life that could have ended badly, so I’m grateful to be in a better place. Every day there are clients to greet. I really like it when they bring their dogs, too.

Hofmann Architecture: What do you do for fun and recreation?

Lilly: After work, my parents, Matthew and Joanna, usually take me running on the beach, or if we’re really feeling adventurous, we go on a trail run up to Inspiration Point and back.

Hofmann Architecture: What else do you like about living in Santa Barbara?

Lilly: I’m a huge fan of Santa Barbara. It’s the most dog-friendly place I’ve ever been. There are several dog beaches, like Hendry’s, where I can run free and hang out with other dogs, and there’s a dog wash station with warm water and a blow dryer. There are tons of dog-friendly restaurants and cafes, such as Handlebar Coffee Company, who always have a bowl of dog treats and fresh water. The Boathouse, is cool, too. They have a little shaded dog rest area while their parents go in for dinner or drinks. Each day at the office, I take one of the staffers for a walk, too.

Hofmann Architecture: What are some of your aspirations?

Lilly: I’m training to be a certified therapy dog by the oldest and largest therapy dog organization in the United States, Therapy Dog International. I can’t wait to visit some people who need more dog goodness. I’ll get to wear a cool vest and will be welcomed in schools, homes, hospice services, hospitals for children and adults, libraries, nursing homes and shelters.

It’s a dog’s life.