Our design is based on complex yet intuitive decision making on aesthetics. Technical aspects are carefully studied and based on building codes and driven by science. The two are simultaneously considered throughout the design process. We believe in good design as a derivative of balanced composition that reflects the function and locality context of space while implementing innovative industry practices.
As an NYC based architectural firm, we specialize in local projects, from residential renovations, commercial tenants’ fit-outs, single family homes, and additions and new buildings. Our strength is in offering multiple faceted design services as we are able to carry a project from design phase through permitting, and construction and inspection phase.
Led by a principal architect and the founder Lenka Ilic, LIA is a full-service architectural practice, registered with NYC DOB and a Special Inspection Agency. Our philosophy is aligned with understanding various phases of a project to provide a streamlined service to our clients.
Building design, details and selection of interior finishes and furniture is a reflection of a dialog with a client, however work generated in our office is humble and sculptural, in a way poetic. The “beautiful” is the ability to grasp the current state, enhance the essential to move forward, we think.
Feeling of buildings and spaces we create is derived from the idea of essentialism. Possibility for gentle thought and continuous movement in distinctive spatial functions is an innate priority irrelevant to projects’ scale and typology. It reflects in floor plans, volumes and furniture placements.

Lenka Ilic, a founder of Lenka Ilic Architecture D.P.C. is a registered architect in NYS. She holds a master’s degree in architecture from the University of Belgrade, Serbia.
Lenka's technical expertise allows diverse components of design to merge into a concise project. With professional experience that encompasses contribution to projects of various scale and typology, from ports, U.S. Embassies to single family residences, rehabilitation and conversion type of work, for private and institutional clients.
She reported directly to the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations; U.S. Department of Transportation, and collaborated with consulting engineers of prominent professional prestige, such as Silman Structural Solutions, Altieri, and others.
Lenka exhibited in MoMA PS1, Storefront for Art and Architecture in NYC, Serbian Consulate in NYC and other occasions. She served as a reviewing jury at NYIT, School of Architecture.
Lenka designed furniture collections and has produced a body of artwork. She was a member of Serbian Equestrian National team.

William Schmidt holds a BA in Psychology with a concentration in Behavior Analysis from Florida International University and postgraduate studies at the University of West Florida. At Lenka Ilic Architecture D.P.C., William leads Business Analytics and Administration, integrating data-driven insight with strategic planning to support the firm’s operations and project performance. His decade of experience as a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst in the medical field provides a strong foundation in evidence based research, systems management, and strategic decision making. William brings a unique perspective to the firm that explores how design influences behavior and well-being within the built environment.
Our firm is licensed and registered to provide architectural design services in New York State. Lenka Ilic Architecture D.P.C. is registered with the NYC DOB, which allows our team to process job filings on the NYC DOB NOW online platform. We hold Special Inspection Agency (SIA) registration with NYC DOB which enables our technical principal to perform special inspections.
See here for a list of Special Inspections we perform: LEARN MORE
NYS RA License Number: 45943
NYC DOB: A14325
NYC DOB SIA: 009576
NYS Vendor ID: 1100324264
NAICS Codes
541310 - Architectural Services
541340 - Drafting Services