Liz Sydnor, AIA
I’m Liz Sydnor. I’m an architect, designer, author, advocate, and storyteller.
Sydnor Design is a multidisciplinary design studio located in Phoenix, Arizona. Specializing in professional graphic design and branding services, Sydnor Design is dedicated to helping you craft a compelling visual identity that resonates with your target audience.
Approach
My philosophy is simple: good design is rooted in care, empathy, and respect. I believe the people I work with and for are just as important as the work itself.
To me, success is when people feel connected, and I firmly believe that design, and the design process, possess the power to forge those connections. A successful project extends beyond solely meeting deadlines and staying within budget constraints. While these factors are crucial and should be the baseline standard, genuine success encompasses an environment where all involved parties feel heard, respected, and valued. I believe a successful project is delivered with integrity, empathy, and the attitude that one never stops learning.
2019 AIA Austin Leadership Collective Open House
2022 AIA Austin Leadership Collective Open House
2019 AIA Austin Holiday Party
2018 AIA Austin Leadership Collective Class
Biography
Originally from Scottsdale, Arizona, I received a Bachelor of Science in Design from Arizona State University, and a Master of Architecture from The University of Texas at Austin. I’ve been practicing architecture for eight years, with my most recent position as an Associate at Alterstudio Architecture in Austin, Texas. They were recently awarded Architizer’s A+ Awards Best Residential Firm in 2023.
During my time at Alterstudio, I worked on over 22 projects. My role consisted of project and client management, construction documents production, schematic design, pre-design research, programming, building permit submittals, and construction administration. While my main focus was custom single-family homes, I also gained experience in mixed-use and small commercial projects, as well as elementary school master planning. In addition, I supported administrative duties at the studio, assisted the transition from AutoCAD to Revit, and was part of the Sustainability Committee which focused on the 2030 Challenge. I previously interned for Michael Hsu Office of Architecture in 2015, Will Bruder Architects in 2014, and Marlene Imirzian & Associates Architects in 2013 and 2012.
When living in Austin, Texas I was highly involved with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Austin chapter. I express gratitude to the AIA Austin Leadership Collective, a program that was created with the mission to support visionary, diverse leadership for a more sustainable, equitable future in the architecture profession. In 2018, as a member of the Leadership Collective’s first class, and out of 20 candidates, I was asked to serve a two-year term as Chair Elect in 2019 and Chair in 2020. Eager to address concerns about equity in architecture on a larger scale, in 2020, I accepted an invitation to serve on the AIA Austin Board as the Membership and Community Building Commissioner and served for two years.
In 2023, I started Sydnor Design, LLC to pursue greater balance in my life, explore other design disciplines full time, and have the flexibility and independence to shape the direction of my own business. I felt that I identified more than being an architect, and I wanted to dedicate more time to other interests and passions.
Promoting women's advancement in architecture and leadership is one of my personal missions. I am currently writing a book called Pep Talk: Tips, Advice, and Encouragement for Women Entering the Field of Architecture. In this book I’ll be writing about my own experiences but more importantly, featuring a collection of stories and experiences from established female architects, designers, and those in related fields across the United States.