Missy Murray Anderson
Founder and owner of House of Anderson, collaborator with Lyle Anderson Companies and passionate philanthropist
How did you get your start in the design industry? I grew up in the art business with my parents opening the first gallery in Scottsdale in 1968. I bought my father’s gallery in 1990 and while hanging artwork in the homes of clients, I also began helping them with accessories and furniture. In 1994, I met my husband Lyle and I subsequently had the opportunity to provide art and décor for the clubhouse, spa and casitas at his new community, Las Campanas in Santa Fe. When we married in 1998, I sold my gallery and followed my true passion as Lyle and I worked together on many residential and clubhouse design projects in our communities in Arizona, New Mexico, Hawaii, Scotland and Mexico. In 2015, I continued to evolve my love for design and creating beautiful environments by opening the House of Anderson, a complete design gallery of the finest furnishings and finishes for both residential and commercial projects.
What is the most rewarding part of your career? My greatest joy and motivation is helping to create environments of beauty that enhance people’s lives now and for generations to come.
You were born and raised in the Valley. In what ways have you seen the Valley evolve over the years? I was born and raised in Scottsdale and literally grew up on Main Street in my parent’s store and gallery. It’s special for me to continue this legacy by having my own business on Main Street. I’m amazed with the Valley’s growth, especially in North Scottsdale. Mayor Herb Drinkwater personally worked with developers like my husband to assure the quality of high-end developments. Herb had a vision of growth to make Scottsdale one of the most beautiful places to live while also maintaining the history, charm and architecture of Old Town Scottsdale which remains today.
You are very involved in local philanthropy. In what ways do you give back to the community? My parents have always been very philanthropic, and I am fortunate that they instilled those same values in my sister, Jinger Richardson, and me. I have enjoyed working with Childhelp, Florence Crittenton, Trends Charitable Fund and the Heart Ball, as well as many other nonprofits over the years. When working with a charity, I always strive to understand its mission as well as personally interacting with the people they serve. When in a leadership role in many of these organizations, I always try to give 100 percent while focusing on fiscal responsibility and measurable results. I am passionate about making lasting difference and also helping organizations to grow responsibly.
What lessons do you hope you pass on to your children and grandchildren? I try to show by words and example that living a life of honesty with an attitude of love and gratitude to God each day will always bring the greatest joys of a life well lived. This past year specifically has been one of the most difficult times in my life dealing with some very challenging health issues. I talk to my children and grandchildren about everything I’ve learned through this experience both good and bad. As difficult as it has been, I have received one of the greatest blessings in my life in what I call my course correction. I’ve had to deeply examine what is truly important in my life and how I spend my time. I’ve also learned what it means to live life more in the moment and to be grateful for each and every experience—large and small, good and bad. The greatest blessing that I am forever grateful for is experiencing the amazing love and support on an entirely different level from Lyle, my family and my dear friends.
