Welcome to Epstein – Olivia Corcoran

We are pleased to welcome Olivia Corcoran to Epstein, the newest member of our Chicago architectural studio. Olivia comes to us shortly after receiving her Master of Architecture from the Illinois Institute of Technology (Go Red Hawks!). While studying for her Masters, Olivia worked as an architectural assessor for the Chicago Public Schools. Olivia, who received her BS from the Catholic University of America (Go Cardinals), also interned as an undergrad at Massachusetts-based architectural firms, Reed Hilderbrand and Jaca Architects.

Olivia grew-up just south of Boston with her mom and two younger siblings and developed an interest in architecture when she was in High School. And, while in High School she went on a trip to Haiti where she learned about the housing needs in other parts of the world and methods for developing quick housing projects. Olivias architectural interest was further nurtured when she completed a summer program at the Boston Architectural College, a course that cemented her choice to pursue architecture in college.

While in undergrad, Olivia participated in a study abroad program in Barcelona where she was able to take part in extensive field sketching as well as explore different parts of Barcelona. Even though sketching was not one of her strengths, Olivia still really enjoyed the experience, especially the otherworldly architecture of Gaudi. And, her favorite Spanish experience was the opportunity to visit the top scaffolding of Sagrada Familia.

Olivia also had an opportunity to travel during her graduate days, including a week long studio visit to Mexico, a place where she found the change in architecture due to the warm climate to be really interesting as well as, and this goes almost without saying, the tequila! In both of Olivias travel experiences, she truly enjoyed the studio projects and the chance to absorb foreign cultures.

When not working at Epstein, Olivia enjoys anything food related. She lives in Wicker Park with her boyfriend and they both enjoy exploring the neighborhood. The couple is also big time game people so game night is a frequent activity in their household.

Before accepting her position at Epstein Olivia worked at a wine bar over the summer in the Gold Coast and strolling the ever fascinating Restoration Hardware was one of her favorite nearby spots to visit. She also loves when people come to visit, not necessarily to catch up on old times, but so shell have excuse to do the architecture boat tour (ha, ha)!

Lastly, Olivia has yet to become a member, but she has started to attend some events for USGBC and CWA (Chicago Women in Architecture), and looks forward to officially joining those organizations in the near future.

Once again, welcome to the family Olivia! And, BTW well gladly come up with excuses as well to take the architectural boat tour with you!