Erica Blawat Architecture
I have a passion for meaningful and thoughtful design.
​
Good design can dramatically elevate not only the appearance, but the livability of a home. Intentional alignments and balance are naturally pleasing and bring delight when done correctly and deliberately. Framed views can direct the eye to invite and enchant. Attention to orientation, daylight, and view can blur the distinction between indoor and outdoor living. Interiors can be open, yet defined. Practicality need not be sacrificed to achieve a clean and beautiful design.
All of this is grounded in thoughtful and intentional architecture, creating the “good bones” of a carefully custom-designed home.
Far too often the concept of “interior design,” intentional or not, is mistaken for the design, carelessly separated from the architectural development of the home. This can lead to superficial trends applied to an uninspired shell of a house, leaving behind countless missed opportunities. The exterior massing and character of a home should be cohesively and intentionally designed with the interior layout and aesthetic.
With a commitment to meaningful design, my process is independent of project type. Whether a modest remodel, a historical renovation, or a luxury new-construction home, I approach each house as a unique design challenge to discover a creative solution that is beautiful and functional.
Meet Erica Blawat
ARCHITECT, AIA
During my undergraduate studies at University of Washington in St. Louis, I discovered that I was not only interested in architectural design, but also understanding the experiences that an intentionally designed space could create. I pursued both interests and graduated summa cum laude with a dual major in Architecture and Psychology.
A few years later, while earning my Master of Architecture at the University of Washington, I discovered my interest in historic preservation, merging this topic with my continued study of the sensation and perception of space – how to utilize interior alignments, framed views, and intentional shifts in floor and ceiling planes to impact the experience of a space.
Early in my career, I worked in commercial and hospitality architecture, but I was particularly drawn to the many design opportunities and challenges found only in residential design. Working directly with the homeowner to establish a unique program and design a building that not only meets their goals, but exceeds their expectations is greatly satisfying. From the initial concept plan sketch to developing construction documents to designing interior details, a thoughtful full-service custom home design involves communication, creative problem solving, and comprehensive design skills from start to finish.
I am a registered architect with over twenty years of experience in residential design. I currently serve as commissioner on the Elmhurst Historic Preservation Commission, as well as host the Elmhurst Art Museum's Architectural Walking Tours. While I have a passion for historic preservation and thoughtful renovation work, I also value intentional and cohesive new home design and construction, particularly when thoughtful innovation, efficiency and sustainability can be factored into an engaging design process. Having experienced both renovation and new-construction design and construction as not only the architect and interior designer, but also the homeowner and client, I bring a unique sensibility and compassion to the often daunting, but ultimately rewarding, home design journey.
When not designing homes, I enjoy sharing the insights and discoveries that architecture can contribute to the classroom and learning at home. Through Design In Play (designinplay.com), I share architecture-themed lessons and activities that explore STEAM-based learning (science, technology, engineering, art and math) through various architectural topics.