Name: Eliza Balen
Company/Years:
GBD Architects – 11 months
Membership Type: Associate
IIDA member since: 2013

Hobbies?: I’m a very active person and I love to get outside – you can usually find me playing or coaching soccer. That being said, I can also appreciate a good Netflix binge. I’m also a huge foodie and love trying all the awesome craft beers and restaurants Portland has to offer!

What gets you excited about design?: Every time I complete a project or assignment, I think of something I could have done differently. I get inspired every day by my peers and other designs and it’s hard to not feel like you could’ve done something better. The great thing I’ve learned is that the next time around, you get to implement the lessons you’ve learned. The constant exposure I get to great design everyday is amazing and that’s what gets me excited about the work I do.

Favorite color at the moment?: All those shades of yellow/green! Chartreuse especially is catching my eye right now. Also greys have always been very comforting to me. I usually struggle with bright colors but with all the grey we get in Portland it’s easy to add a bit of sunshine!  I love to add a pop of color to a mostly neutral palette.

Favorite design magazine/blog?: For personal enjoyment – Dwell. Dream houses and dream furniture galore! For inspiration at work I like to scroll through retaildesignblog.net.

Why are you a member of IIDA?: I joined IIDA when I was a student at Savannah College of Art and Design. Since I’ve began my career and moved to Portland it’s been a great way to meet and connect with peers.