As an Architectural Manager harnessing a holistic approach, Elyse generates happiness for each of her clients by getting to the heart of their vision. With over 10 years of experience, she joins our team craving design challenges, creative problem-solving, and lasting relationships with each of her clients. Sun-filled spaces, functional layouts, intricate details, and embracing the environment are a few of the elements that define Elyse’s designs.

Here, we get to know Elyse, what inspires her, how she begins the design process, and how she strives for client happiness in every project.

Can you remember the first space that had an impact on your architecture career?
I have always been passionate about architecture, but when I studied abroad in Florence, Italy, I was stunned by the attention to detail and intricacy. I knew from that trip going forward that I wanted to apply that level of care to my own work.

What do you enjoy most when designing a home?
Forming relationships with my clients, space planning, and creative problem-solving. I love being able to connect with my clients and work with them to design a functional flow, sophisticated layout, and home to enhance their lives.

Walk me through your design process…
Upon starting a project, I really dive deep and get to know my clients on a personal level. Asking questions and forming a trusting relationship helps me dial in their personal aesthetic, functionality desires, and their overall vision of home. It’s also important for me to evaluate the lot, the environment surrounding it, and its orientation to the sun. Throughout the entire process, we’re in constant communication. I always make sure client happiness is prioritized.

How do you keep your clients engaged throughout the process?
On top of constant communication with my clients, I love the process and collaboration of creating Houzz and Pinterest boards together. It’s a fun and simple way to recognize likes or dislikes and find inspiration.

How do you pull inspiration from so many different clients?
That’s the fun part! It’s all about the details – each client’s personality, visual desires, and finding inspiration from spaces that make them feel happy and comfortable. I’ll be planning and researching design specifics for one client and stumble upon something that I think another client would love. I like to push my clients out of their comfort zone and give them a platform to think outside the box. That all starts with a great relationship.

What is most important to you when working with your clients?
Forming a strong relationship and setting up an initial trust. I want to make sure that the clients know I have their best interests in mind and that I am going to create a space that fits their wants and needs. I think the most valuable piece of information is how my clients will use their home, so it’s extremely important to have strong, open communication from the get-go.

What do you like best about your work?
I love connecting with my clients, bringing their visions to life, and seeing them happy with the result.

What made you want to be a part of the Collective team?
I made connections with the team before I started working at Collective, sourcing for another company. I always loved Collective’s collaborative team of experts. There are so many people to learn from and grow with.

What sets Collective apart from other architects?
Our people. The Collective team is passionate and personal. We get the job done and have fun doing it. We also provide design-build services that streamline the process of designing a home. Everything under one roof and a team that enhances the lives of our clients sets us apart.

If you want to learn more about our architecture services, whether a new home build or a remodel, get in touch with our team today.