Erla Dögg Ingjaldsdóttir
“Believe in your vision, challenge the status quo, and trust that persistence and innovation will open doors. The future of design needs more women shaping it.”
ArchNative meet Erla Dögg Ingjaldsdóttir, Assoc. AIA, IIDA,
Erla is the co-founder of Minarc, a dynamic architecture practice based in Santa Monica, which she launched with her husband in 1999. Alongside Minarc, she is also the founder and owner of Erla Construction. Renowned for her innovative and contemporary design philosophy, Erla has earned international recognition for her unique approach, which prioritizes sustainability without compromising creativity.
We sat down with Erla to discuss the rewarding—and sometimes challenging—experience of starting a firm with a significant other, how she ensures that Minarc retains its distinct design identity, and what her day-to-day looks like as she successfully manages two thriving companies.
Tell us a little bit about your introduction to architecture? What made you want to pursue it as a career?
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.
You had started your firm, Minarc, a Santa Monica-based architecture practice alongside your husband in 1999. Tell us a little bit about the beginning days of the partnership. What were the benefits and challenges of working with your spouse?
Through my work and studies, I met my husband, Tryggvi Thorsteinsson, and together we created Minarc and later ERLA Construction, where we could push boundaries and find innovative ways of living and building. Our shared passion for design and sustainability has been the foundation of our work, and we’ve always approached projects with a mindset of exploration and discovery.
ALPICE Home
We often say we work like farmers—the cows need to be milked, the sheep need to be fed, and things must get done. There’s no waiting for the perfect moment. Our shared passion for design and sustainability kept us going, and mutual respect allowed us to balance each other’s strengths.
Those early years laid the foundation for everything that followed. The challenges only reinforced our belief in what we were building together, and that mindset still drives us today.
The initial founding years of a business are generally the hardest, both from a work standpoint as well as a financial standpoint. How would you describe those beginning years and what tools did you implement with your husband in order to be able to sustain the business?
In the early days of Minarc, we worked tirelessly to build not just a firm but a shared vision. It was intense—long hours, constant learning, and the challenge of balancing personal and professional life. Unlike couples who later transition into working together, our partnership started this way, making collaboration feel natural.
Most importantly, we never lost sight of our passion. That drive, paired with mutual respect, helped us push through challenges and establish a solid foundation for the future.
How would you describe the firm's architectural identity?
Big Little Rock
At Minarc, our philosophy embraces minimalism and sustainability to prove that less can be more. We design spaces that are functional, meaningful, and environmentally responsible. Our work is driven by a commitment to reimagining how buildings are constructed, whether by addressing fire-prone regions or tackling water waste. We believe in holistic, resource-conscious design that enhances the way people live.
What has been the most meaningful project that you have worked on? Why did it stand out?
It’s hard to pinpoint just one—each project has its own story, challenges, and impact. Designing the ION Hotel in Iceland was a proud moment, as it has become an architectural landmark in my home country. Winning the LABC Architect Award for Sustainability was also a defining achievement, as it recognized our team’s dedication to forward-thinking design solutions and proved that sustainability done right can be both practical and visionary.
How do you approach each new project you work on?
I find inspiration in nature, the power of human connection, and in music. These influences fuel my creativity and shape my design philosophy. Each project is an opportunity to explore new ways to create spaces that foster well-being, nurture community, and bring harmony to everyday life.
Wasatch Residence
You are also the founder of Erla Construction – tell us a little bit about the foundations of this firm and a little bit about the projects you work on?
ERLA Construction was founded as a natural extension of our work at Minarc, allowing us to take a hands-on approach to innovative building methods. We focus on pushing the boundaries of construction, whether through fire-proof building systems, prefabricated solutions, or rethinking resource efficiency in architecture.
What are the main similarities and differences in the running of the two firms?
Both Minarc and ERLA Construction are built on the principles of sustainability and challenging traditional building methods. While Minarc focuses on design, ERLA allows us to bring those designs to life with new construction techniques and systems that enhance efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Wasatch Residence
How do you structure your day-to-day?
Each day is different, but the driving force behind everything I do is problem-solving and innovation. Whether it's working through a new design, collaborating with my team, or exploring sustainable solutions, my focus is always on creating meaningful, functional spaces.
Outside of running two companies, what do your days look like?
As a mother of three daughters, I also bring a perspective to my work with a deep sensitivity to how environments can support families, both physically and mentally. My work and life are closely intertwined, as my passion for design is present in everything I do, from creating spaces to fostering connections.
What is a resource you continuously go back to?
Nature has always been my greatest source of inspiration. The textures, colors, and effortless harmony of the natural world shape my approach to design.
What is one piece of advice you would have for your younger self?
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, challenge the status quo, and trust that persistence and innovation will open doors. The future of design needs more women shaping it.