Heidi has built a practice specializing in research-based initiatives in memory care and senior living projects, as well as a broad range of work that includes adaptive reuse, renovation of existing skilled nursing communities, creation of new rehab therapy facilities and both affordable and market rate housing.
She leads a WJW effort to develop industry-leading design concepts for Evidence-Based Memory Care Special Care facilities and is also known for her holistic approach to project management, centered on listening at all stages and employing a team-based approach throughout construction.
Heidi joined WJW in 2007 after receiving a Master of Architecture from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she also completed her Master of Science in Architecture in Health Design in 2010. While at UIC, she received the AIA Henry Adams Medal of Merit, and in 2020 was awarded AIA Chicago’s Dubin Family Young Architect Award. A partner in the firm since 2018, Heidi takes pride in her role as a female leader in the field of architecture and has helped make mentorship of the next generation of architects a focus for the firm.
Expertise
Use of skills in site planning, developing program diagrams and space planning to uncover hidden potential; research-informed design for assisted living and memory care environments; adaptive reuse and sustainability; affordable housing; historic preservation; design for healthcare; extensive project management and construction experience; listening to and synthesizing project goals.
Key Focus
Finding creative architectural solutions that improve the lives of vulnerable populations; advancing the field of senior living and memory care design through research; creating mentorship opportunities for women in architecture and for young designers in the affordable housing space.
Research Interests
Impact of the built environment on health and wellness; urban farming and the role of food in creation of community; advanced concepts in affordable housing; lighting for older adults; the effect of light on people with dementia; special care residential environments.
Passionate About
Volunteering and mentoring, including serving as the AIA Design for Aging KC Co-Chair for a decade and helping to create Illinois Housing Council emerging professionals programming to support and mentor young professionals in the affordable housing space; nurturing her family and a healthy work/life balance; traveling the globe; gardening and spending time in nature; relaxing along the shores of Lake Michigan.
From a young age, I’ve been inspired by the built environment and the power of architecture to impact our lives, which led me to seek out opportunities to design for the most vulnerable among us. I’m proud to help lead a firm that is equipping the next generation of architects to do the same.
