Wendy Illian
Senior Associate
Wendy is a highly accomplished and versatile professional, combining her skills in architecture and nonprofit management to make a positive impact on both the built environment and the community. She thrives on challenges and enjoys projects that push her creative and problem-solving skills to the limit. Wendy has a special affinity for luxury residential projects, working closely with clients to make their vision a reality.
Wendy has a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology School of Architecture, where she graduated with honors. Complementing her architectural skills, she pursued a Master of Nonprofit Administration at North Park University Graduate School of Business & Nonprofit Management, graduating with high honors.
This unique combination of architectural and nonprofit knowledge allows Wendy to approach projects with a community-oriented perspective.
Wendy is an avid dog lover and actively involved in multiple dog rescues. Her 9-1/2 year old rescue border collie mix is her beloved companion, and they enjoy walking and jogging together. Wendy is a true creator in her personal life as well. Cooking, baking, artwork, knitting, furniture building, and home remodeling are among her creative outlets. She also enjoys gardening and other outdoor activities like swimming, sailing, and kayaking.
Wendy’s favorite building is Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona. Growing up in Oak Park, she was exposed to the works of Frank Lloyd Wright whom she admires for his ability to seamlessly integrate his elegant designs with their surrounding environment. Taliesin West left an especially lasting impression on Wendy as a remarkable example of his organic architecture.