Sylvia Kowalk

Principal | Director of Interior Design

Sylvia Kowalk, Associate AIA, LEED AP ID+C, leader of Legat’s interior design practice, designs visually engaging interior environments that elevate mood and improve efficiency. She tells her clients’ stories by mixing materials, colors, finishes, and sustainable elements while respecting budgets.

Sylvia joined Legat in 2011. Her portfolio ranges from preK-12 and higher education facilities to performing arts centers, libraries, community health centers, and corporate environments. She regularly contributes to industry publications and speaks about interior design trends and challenges at regional and national conferences.

At Oakton Community College, Sylvia transformed four interior classrooms into an Enrollment Center that welcomes potential students with exciting materials, lighting, and colors.

As lead interior designer of Erie Family Health Center’s award-winning Waukegan facility, Sylvia balanced the organization’s corporate standards with the community’s Hispanic heritage.

At Newark City Schools, Sylvia oversaw interior design for six new schools and renovations at four schools. Using the same materials, she gave each facility its own personality while meeting a tight budget.

Sylvia is a committee member of the Society for College and University Planning’s (SCUP) North Central region. She volunteers at Metro Achievement Center for Girls, which provides art, music, academic support, and character development programs for girls between fourth and twelfth grades.

When she was seven, Sylvia visited a building designed by Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta. Since then, she’s been fascinated by design. She relaxes by drawing and painting. Sylvia has traveled extensively, and enjoys exploring different cultures, arts, foods, and histories.

Sylvia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design degree from Visual Arts Design Institute in Mexico.