Exploring Life & Business with Reiko Michlig of Reiko Architecture

Today we’d like to introduce you to Reiko Michlig.

Reiko, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been passionate about drawing since childhood, often copying my favorite drawings from children’s books. This love for visual expression led me to study visual arts in college, where I explored installation art and more spatial forms of art. Seeking to deepen my understanding of space and the built form, I pursued a Master of Architecture at UC Berkeley. My work is influenced by a deep appreciation for vernacular architecture – the way buildings reflect the stories, traditions, and needs of the people who inhabit them. I am particularly drawn to the connection between architecture and community, finding inspiration in how spaces shape and are shaped by the lives within them.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to becoming an architect hasn’t been easy. Earning my licensure was a long and challenging process—the licensure took me six years of persistence, learning, and growth. I had graduated in 2007 at the cusp of the housing recession when there was absolutely no work for architects for years to come. I also relocated from North California to Southern California, got married and had three children, not in any particular order. Along the way, I received a Daruma doll, a traditional Japanese talisman representing perseverance and determination. When you first acquire a Daruma, it has blank eyes. You fill in one eye when setting a goal, and only after achieving it do you color in the other, symbolizing completion and resilience.

That journey resonates deeply with my own. Every step, no matter how small, brought me closer to where I am today. Looking back, I appreciate the challenges as much as the successes—they shaped not only my career but also my perspective on design and life itself.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Reiko Architecture?
I often think of myself as the “Mommy Architect”—not only because I’m a mother of three, but because I bring a uniquely motherly sensibility to every project. Architecture isn’t just about design; it’s about relationships. A successful project depends on strong collaboration—not only with clients but also with the project team, city officials, and everyone involved in bringing a home to life.

As a mother, I naturally think ahead, anticipating the evolving needs of a family. I help my clients envision not just their immediate lifestyle but how their home can grow with them. What about Thanksgiving? Will family be staying over for extended periods? How will spaces adapt as children grow or as parents age? These are the kinds of questions I consider, offering fresh insights that resonate with homeowners looking for a design that truly supports their way of living.

My work is also deeply influenced by a love for vernacular architecture—how spaces tell the stories of the people who inhabit them. I find inspiration in the way homes reflect traditions, community, and the small moments that shape everyday life.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
COVID was one of the most challenging times of my life. With residential construction booming and everyone at home, I found myself overwhelmed—not just with an influx of work, but also with the sudden responsibility of tutoring my children over Zoom. Balancing my business and my family felt nearly impossible, and I reached a point where the stress became unsustainable.

People often talk about hitting rock bottom before making a change, and for me, that moment came during the pandemic. It forced me to step back, reevaluate, and take intentional steps to create a healthier work-life balance. I’ve come to believe that being a successful business owner isn’t just about growth—it’s about sustainability, both professionally and personally. Finding that balance has made me a better architect, a better collaborator, and a better advocate for my clients, who are often navigating their own challenges in creating a home that truly supports their lives.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.reikoarchitecture.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reiko_design/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550272151837
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/reiko-michlig-b650907

Image Credits
Ian Denker