Julie Liska is the founding Principal of Liska Architects with extensive experience in hospitality, educational and commercial facilities in addition to residential projects. Her expertise is restoration, preservation and adaptive reuse of historic properties. Prior to founding the firm, Julie was a Project Architect at STR Partners LLC, Project Manager at BauerLatoza Studio and an Associate at Lucien Lagrange Architects where she led the team of architects and consultants in the restoration of the Blackstone Hotel, a National Landmark and one of Chicago’s landmark hotel facilities.
Julie’s passion for restoring the quality and character of historic buildings and neighborhoods while adapting them for today’s modern needs has extended to the hands-on restoration of her own historic Chicago bungalow including her work to restore the original wood windows which has contributed to reducing the home’s energy usage by nearly 50%.
Julie enthusiastically shares her knowledge of historic materials, energy efficiency and quality design practices with others by providing instructional presentations for the Historic Chicago Bungalow Association.
In her free time, Julie enjoys gardening, biking, cooking and
scuba diving. Her extensive time spent preparing gourmet meals has provided her with the experience to create kitchen layouts for clients that are both elegant and functional.
EDUCATION
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION
Registered Architect – Illinois, Wisconsin
LEED Accredited Professional
United States Green Building Council
Registered Energy Professional – City of Chicago
ORGANIZATIONS
American Institute of Architects (AIA)
Small Practitioners Group Co-Chair
Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce
Board Member 2010-2012
Sustainability Committee Chair
LECTURES AND PRESENTATIONS
University of Illinois, Urbana – Champaign
“Restoration of the Blackstone Hotel”
American Institute of Architects
“Working With an Architect”
Chicago Bungalow Association
“Landscaping for the Bungalow”
“Making the House You Have – The Home You Want”
“Maintenance 101”
“Getting the Most Out of Your Second Floor”
“Adapting Your Home for the Golden Years”“Don’t Trash that Sash”