Dr. Lauren Papa, DC, entrepreneur, artist, and real estate developer, has officially launched Art Deco Freak, a residential redevelopment company specializing in transforming distressed and historically significant homes into thoughtfully designed luxury residences. The firm operates bi-coastally, with projects spanning Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Los Angeles, California, and introduces a design-first investment strategy that blends architectural preservation with modern functionality and long-term community value.
Art Deco Freak acquires underutilized residential properties with untapped potential and repositions them into premium homes that celebrate original craftsmanship while meeting the expectations of today’s discerning buyers. Rather than pursuing high-volume renovations, the company focuses on carefully curated, boutique redevelopment projects that emphasize quality, authenticity, and enduring value.
As housing markets evolve, homebuyers increasingly seek residences offering character, timeless design, and superior craftsmanship over standardized renovations. Art Deco Freak answers that demand through a philosophy centered on preserving architectural identity while incorporating sophisticated contemporary living spaces. Dr. Lauren Papa, DC, founder and principal, stated, “Every property has a story waiting to be restored. Our mission extends beyond renovation. We carefully reimagine each home to honor its architectural heritage while creating spaces that are functional, elegant, and built to serve future generations. Great design has the power to elevate neighborhoods and inspire the people who live within them.”
The firm’s development strategy follows a comprehensive framework prioritizing architectural integrity, intentional design, sustainability, and exceptional project execution. Every renovation begins with preserving defining historical features before introducing modern systems, efficient layouts, premium materials, and carefully selected finishes that enhance both functionality and market appeal. Art Deco Freak also embraces environmentally responsible redevelopment by preserving and repurposing valuable original materials such as historic woodwork, vintage fixtures, and decorative tile, reducing construction waste while maintaining each property’s authentic character.
The company’s bi-coastal presence enables it to leverage the unique architectural strengths of two distinct real estate markets. In Pittsburgh, redevelopment efforts focus on restoring classic brick residences, historic row homes, and century-old properties that reflect the city’s rich industrial heritage, emphasizing structural preservation, handcrafted millwork, and timeless architectural details. In Los Angeles, the portfolio revitalizes mid-century and eclectic properties through open-concept living, seamless indoor-outdoor integration, natural lighting, and elevated contemporary aesthetics that complement Southern California lifestyles.
Dr. Lauren Papa’s multidisciplinary background—spanning entrepreneurship, design, creative production, and philanthropy—shapes the vision behind Art Deco Freak. She gained national recognition through the Who's Your Papa concert series, a creative initiative celebrating Grammy Award-winning music while raising funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The organizational leadership, creative direction, and project management skills developed through those ventures now serve as the foundation for Art Deco Freak’s residential redevelopment model.
Unlike traditional investment firms that prioritize rapid turnover, Art Deco Freak approaches every acquisition as an opportunity to create lasting value for homeowners, neighborhoods, and local housing markets. The company believes successful redevelopment should improve surrounding communities while preserving the architectural identity that gives neighborhoods their unique sense of place. With multiple projects already progressing across Pennsylvania and California, Art Deco Freak is positioned to expand its portfolio through selective acquisitions that align with its commitment to design excellence, responsible redevelopment, and long-term investment performance.
“Our objective is to create homes people genuinely connect with,” added Dr. Lauren Papa. “By respecting history, embracing thoughtful innovation, and maintaining uncompromising standards throughout every phase of development, we believe exceptional residential redevelopment can generate meaningful value for homeowners, investors, and entire communities.”
