A native of Philadelphia, Liz is a licensed architect with six years of professional experience. She earned her Master of Architecture degree at Clemson University, is a member of AIA South Carolina and AIA Equity in Architecture committee, and a volunteer with the Charleston Chapter of the ACE Mentor Program of America. Liz joined the Liollio team earlier this year. We recently sat down for a little Q&A with Our October Spotlight On feature.
How long have you lived in Charleston?
I lived in Charleston for five years after graduation and moved back a few months ago.
Where did you grow up?
Doylestown, PA a suburb of Philadelphia.
Are you married?
Yes, Brian and I started dating in graduate school and we celebrated our 1 year anniversary this spring.
What is your favorite thing in your house?
One of my favorite things is actually outside of our house. We planted a lemon tree a few years ago and it is doing great. I am looking for suggestions on what to do with a lot of lemons!
What do you like to do when you have free time?
I enjoy walking our dog around the city and the beach, yoga, drawing, and gardening.
Do you have any pets? If so, tell us a bit about them.
Yes, we have a Plott Hound, Belle from the Carolina Coonhound Rescue. She loves squirrels, snacks, and the couch.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
When we finished grad school the economy was very bad. I am very proud of myself and classmates who went through those few years with perseverance and optimism.
What building have you visited that most impressed you?
The Pantheon and Richard Meier's Jubilee Church.
What architect or architecture firm most influenced you as a student?
In school I studied the architecture of MVRDV, OMA, Fuksas, Jeanne Gang, Liz Diller, W G Clark, Eileen Gray, Ray and Charles Eames, to list a few. Now, thanks to Instagram, I enjoy following inspiring accounts of people who create small crafts to international design firms... and a few adorable animals too.
What is your favorite country you have traveled to and why?
This is typically the last country I've been to, which is Denmark. We visited Copenhagen for a week during our honeymoon and enjoyed how easy it is to get around the city by bus and bikes to see the architecture, museums, and of course, food. But I can't answer this question without saying Genova and Italy hold a big part of my heart.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
The studio culture at Liollio is very collaborative. Everyone works towards the same goal of making each project as good as possible. The culture of design and teamwork is one of the first ideals you absorb as a new employee.
What inspires you most?
I find people and their stories inspiring - what makes someone who they are.
What is the hardest part about your job?
The hardest part of architecture is a blank page.
What style of architecture most impresses you or is your favorite?
I find quiet architecture impressive. A building that is enough - not more than it should be or less than it could be.
What is your favorite book?
I read Catcher in the Rye and loved it so long ago that I am afraid to re-read it.
What is your favorite restaurant?
Sea Biscuit Café on IOP
What’s your favorite place in Charleston?
Magnolia Plantation, our wedding was at Magnolia's Conservatory last year. It is one of my favorite places from a perfect day with family and friends.
What is your favorite food?
Coffee! Is that a food?
What is your least favorite food?
Anything coconut, I really don't like the flavor.
If you could be an animal, what would you be and why?
An Elephant, I'm not sure why.
Do you play any instruments?
No
What song is at the top of your most played list (be honest)?
Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse by Minus the Bear.
Who is your favorite musical artist?
The Hold Steady
Who is your favorite artist?
Locally, I used to walk by Rick Reinert's studio on my way to work and would love to have one of his paintings one day.
Favorite television show?
Right now, I'm watching Better Things.
Who would play you in a movie about your life?
Mary-Louis Parker
What’s your astrological sign?
Gemini. It's perfect because I am an identical twin!
Last movie you watched?
Naked on Netflix
Guilty pleasure?
French Fries & Yellow Mustard
Where is the best place you’ve traveled to and why?
Traveling to Pennsylvania to see my sister and her family is the best place I can ever go. I am an aunt of two awesome kids.
What is the proudest moment of your life, thus far?
Marrying my best friend Brian and becoming an aunt (twice!)
What is your personal philosophy?
Be nice.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
My family ...and coffee.
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life thus far?
I struggled with depression in college and asking for help was a big hurdle. I believe everyone needs someone to talk to and it has taught me more compassion for myself and others.
What is your greatest fear?
Unexpected phone calls.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I played Division II softball in college. Our team reached the World Series tournament and I was awarded the All-American Outfielder award.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
I would be a mail carrier. I would need to have the mail truck, mail bag, and uniform of course.
What does true leadership mean to you?
A leader is a part of their team and leads by example while helping to advance and encourage the people around them. There are many kinds of leaders, but they all must be good listeners.
How do you define success?
Success is fluid. It is setting goals but being able to find happiness wherever you find yourself.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
I would tell myself to be bolder in my opinions and that you are smarter than you think you are.
