Bio:

As an NCIDQ certified Interior Designer, proud Professional member of ASID's Wisconsin Chapter, and LEED Accredited Professional with a specialty in Interior Design and Construction, Amanda Coplan Peña holds a degree in Interior Design from Harrington College of Design and received her B.A. in English Language and Literature from the University of Chicago.

As the Senior Interior Design Manager at The Community Builders, Inc. (TCB), Ms. Peña led TCB’s design efforts across the non-profit's portfolio of more than 12,000 affordable apartment homes, community amenities, and commercial spaces. Her responsibilities at TCB ranged from initial project concept review and space planning to amenity and unit design, architectural finish selections, FF&E specifications and procurement, and management of third-party ID firms. As Chair of TCB’s Design Committee, she reviewed every new property in development at the schematic design phase, and provided formal comments to each project architect. During Ms. Peña's tenure, the Design Committee provided design and construction guidance and standardization to more than 90 projects. Ms. Peña also managed relationships and selections with national vendors, and maintained TCB’s Standards for Design & Construction.

Prior to her work in affordable housing design, Ms. Peña worked in high-end residential design in Chicago for ten years. Informing her most recent work, Ms. Peña previously served as Acquisitions Manager at the National Equity Fund, a low-income housing tax credit syndicator, placing more than $25 million of investment funds per year into the company’s affordable housing portfolio.

Where did you graduate from, and with what degree? 

Harrington College of Design, Arts Associate

What is your favorite movie or show? 

Blazing Saddles

What was the last book you read? (or currently reading) 

"Rogue Justice" by Stacey Abrams

What is your favorite color? 

Deep dark emerald green

What is your favorite thing about ASID?   

Community.

What is your favorite thing about interior design? (the profession or the industry)

Having the opportunity to make people's lives better, easier, and more joyful.