Erla Dögg Ingjaldsdóttir

Minarc Architecture and ERLA construction
Owner, Principal Designer, Licensed General Contractor

25 Years
in the Industry

How did you get started in the AEC Industry?

My fascination with nature—its textures, colors, and effortless harmony—has been a lifelong inspiration. Growing up in Iceland, I was drawn to the idea of creating designs that could coexist with the environment. My journey began with a foundation in natural science, followed by studying floral design in Denmark, which allowed me to explore form and composition. Eventually, my path led me to California, where I studied interior architecture and later became a licensed general Contractor.

Through my work and studies I met my husband Tryggvi Thorsteinsson, and together we created Minarc Architecture and later ERLA Construction, where we could push boundaries and find innovative ways of living and building.

What inspires you to design? Do you incorporate any unique perspectives or values into your designs, and how do you think your experiences as a woman influence your work?

Growing up in Iceland, I had the privilege of witnessing a woman lead as president—a groundbreaking moment that symbolized the country’s progressive approach to women’s rights. Iceland’s trailblazing history, from granting equal inheritance rights to electing the world’s first female president, opened a door to endless possibilities for what women can achieve. That continues to inspire me to push boundaries in my own work.

I find inspiration in nature, the power of human connection, and in music. These influences fuel my creativity and shape my design philosophy: embracing minimalism and sustainability to prove that less can be more. I like to create spaces that are not only functional but meaningful, spaces that enhance the way we live.

As a mother of three daughters, I also bring a perspective to designs, with a deep sensitivity to how environments can support families, both physically and mentally. My work is driven by a desire to craft spaces that foster well-being, nurture connection, and bring harmony to everyday life.

Who have your role models been? Have you had any mentors throughout your career, and how have they shaped your journey in architecture?

I’ve been fortunate to draw inspiration from role models who embody creativity, resilience, and determination. Early in my career, I admired architects like Alvar Aalto, whose ability to seamlessly blend modernism with nature sparked my imagination and showed me how architecture can be both functional and poetic.

But my greatest mentors have come from my own family. My grandmother, a fearless and resourceful woman who ran a farm, taught me the value of hard work and ingenuity. My mother, a trailblazer as a surgical director, showed me the power of leadership and breaking barriers. My daughters also inspire me every day with their fresh perspectives on the world.

How do you think architecture can help address social issues, and how have you seen women lead the way in creating inclusive, equitable spaces?

It’s about more than just buildings—it’s about crafting solutions to real-world challenges. From affordable housing to inclusive public spaces, architecture can serve as a catalyst for meaningful change.

Women in the industry bring empathy, creativity, and a human-centered approach to design.

At Minarc, we’ve embraced this mindset by reimagining how buildings are constructed, especially in fire-prone regions like Los Angeles. It’s not just about making structures safer—it’s about designing holistically and rethinking how we use resources. For example, we have worked to tackle the issue of water waste. Should we really be filling pools with drinking water when it’s such a precious resource? This question led us to create ReFlow, a sink that repurposes the water from hand-washing to flush toilets. It’s a simple example of how creative solutions can make a difference.

We need bold ideas and a willingness to rethink outdated systems. I trust no one better than women to lead the way in this effort. With innovation, and a passion for change, women are driving architecture forward.

How do you see the conversation on sustainability going in our industry?

At this point it is way too late to be talking about sustainability—we need to be doing it! While it’s great that the industry has embraced eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs, the real challenge lies in scaling these solutions to make them truly impactful.

At Minarc, we’re not content with checking the "sustainability" box—we’re here to push boundaries. From developing fire-proof building systems to creating prefab solutions that minimize waste and maximize efficiency, we focus on action, not just ideas. The time for hesitation has passed. Sustainability isn’t a trend; it’s a necessity.

The future of design depends on bold solutions. We have the tools; now let’s use them.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far, and how did it shape your professional journey?

It’s hard to pinpoint just one—my career has been a collection of both big and small milestones, each shaping my journey in its own way. Designing the ION Hotel, which has become an architectural landmark in my home country of Iceland, was a proud moment.

Winning the LABC Architect Award for Sustainability was another defining achievement. It wasn’t just recognition of my work—it was a celebration of my team’s dedication to innovation and proof that sustainability done right can be both practical and visionary.

Tell us about some of your favorite projects you’ve worked on.

That’s like asking me to pick a favorite child. Each project has its own story, challenges, and impact.

We’ve designed a boutique hotel in Nigeria, which took us on incredible trips to immerse ourselves in the culture. We designed a private residence in St. John, Caribbean, blending modern design with the island’s raw beauty. And of course, there’s the ION Hotel in Iceland.

Beyond hospitality and residential design, we’ve pushed the boundaries of innovation. We developed a fire-proof building system, designed the Dropi Chair and ReFlow sink, and even repurposed recycled artificial grass for furniture—all to show what’s possible when sustainability meets design. Our ADU projects using the fire-proof system are helping densify cities while making homes safer and smarter.

But my favorite project is always the next one, because the best ideas are still ahead.

What advice would you give women just entering the industry?

Don’t give up. Every NO brings you closer to a yes!

Architecture and construction have long been male-dominated industries, but change is happening—and it’s long overdue.

Believe in your vision and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. Seek out mentors, build a strong network, and stay open to learning. The industry can be tough, but your perspective is your power. Lead with confidence, embrace collaboration, and most importantly—keep pushing forward. The future of design needs more women shaping it.