---
title: "ileana schinder — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ileana-schinder-pfvwus-pf~1829085289
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1829085289.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "ileana schinder"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/cde3ed2c032b1123_8788-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "Washington, D.C. 20011, United States"
phone: "(202) 381-7463"
website: http://www.ileanaschinder.com
rating: 4.9
review_count: 67
best_of_houzz_awards: 14
followers: 70
last_updated: 2026-08-28
---

# ileana schinder

Original Houzz profile: [ileana schinder](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ileana-schinder-pfvwus-pf~1829085289)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** Washington, DC
- **Serves:** Washington, Adelphi, Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Baileys Crossroads, Beltsville, Bethesda, Bladensburg, Bowie, Chevy Chase, Chillum, College Park, DC, DC (Washington), East Riverdale, Falls Church, Fort Washington, Franconia, Ft Washington, Gaithersburg, Greenbelt, Hillcrest Heights, Hyattsville, Landover, Langley Park, Largo, Laurel, New Carrollton, North Bethesda, North Chevy Chase, North Kensington, Oxon Hill, Potomac, Riverdale Park, Rockville, Seat Pleasant, Seven Corners, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, University Park
- **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (67 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 14 awards (2016–2026), for Design, Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 10,000 Ideabook Saves

We solve space problems. We design. We find solutions that fit size, budget and aesthetic preferences. Ileana Schinder is an architect.

### Services Provided

- Architectural Design
- Building Design
- Home Remodeling
- Architectural Drawings
- Custom Homes
- House Plans
- New Home Construction
- Home Additions
- Home Extensions
- Kitchen Design
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Sustainable Design
- Energy-Efficient Homes
- Floor Plans
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Bathroom Design
- Green Building
- Space Planning
- Guesthouse Design & Construction
- Multigenerational Homes
- Pool House Design & Construction
- Drafting
- Home Restoration
- Project Management
- Outdoor Kitchen Design
- Basement Remodeling
- Barn Design & Construction
- Mudroom Design
- Attic Conversion
- Basement Design
- Tiny House Construction
- Staircase Design
- Garage Design
- Laundry Room Design
- Passive Solar Heating & Cooling
- Construction Drawings
- Custom Home

### Areas Served

- Washington
- Adelphi
- Alexandria
- Annandale
- Arlington
- Baileys Crossroads
- Beltsville
- Bethesda
- Bladensburg
- Bowie
- Chevy Chase
- Chillum
- College Park
- DC
- DC (Washington)
- East Riverdale
- Falls Church
- Fort Washington
- Franconia
- Ft Washington
- Gaithersburg
- Greenbelt
- Hillcrest Heights
- Hyattsville
- Landover
- Langley Park
- Largo
- Laurel
- New Carrollton
- North Bethesda
- North Chevy Chase
- North Kensington
- Oxon Hill
- Potomac
- Riverdale Park
- Rockville
- Seat Pleasant
- Seven Corners
- Silver Spring
- Takoma Park
- University Park

### Typical Job Cost

$30,000 - 500,000

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | ileana schinder |
| Address | Washington, D.C. 20011, United States |
| Phone | (202) 381-7463 |
| Website | http://www.ileanaschinder.com |
| License Number | DC, MD & VA |
| Followers on Houzz | 70 |

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [ileana schinder](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ileana-schinder-pfvwus-pf~1829085289)
- **Website:** http://www.ileanaschinder.com
- **Phone:** (202) 381-7463

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- Professional Architecture license in DC, MD & VA

- **Best of Houzz:** 14 awards (2016–2026), for Design, Service.

**Affiliations**
- [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471)
- [NCARB](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncarb-pfvwus-pf~1477640315)
- [American Institute of Architects, Washington DC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-institute-of-architects-washington-dc-pfvwus-pf~882126009)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 67 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 49.0
- Communication: 49.0
- Value: 48.0

### Reviews

**★★★★★ — Dawn McDonald, Jan. 2026**

> Working with Ileana has been a breeze. Her design was beautiful and working with her and her staff was even more lovely. From where I sit as the client, the permitting process was a breeze - great timing and little sweat from me.  I can't wait to see the finished project.  Thanks Ileana and Nadege.

**★★★★★ — FineCraft Contractors, Design + Build, Jan. 2026**

> FineCraft has had the pleasure of working with Ileana Schinder, and we can say without hesitation that she is an exceptional architect and a true professional.
>
> Ileana brings a rare balance of strong design sensibility and real-world practicality. Her concepts are thoughtful, elegant, and well-resolved, but never disconnected from budget, constructability, or client goals. She understands how drawings translate to the field, which makes collaboration during construction efficient and productive.
>
> From a builder’s perspective, her documentation is clear, her coordination is thorough, and her responsiveness is excellent. She is proactive in addressing challenges, open to collaboration, and focused on solutions rather than blame — qualities that are critical to delivering successful projects.
>
> Most importantly, Ileana consistently advocates for the homeowner while maintaining respect for the construction process. That alignment results in smoother projects, better outcomes, and clients who are genuinely happy with both the design and the finished product.
>
> We value our working relationship with Ileana Schinder and look forward to many more successful projects together. We would confidently recommend her to any homeowner or professional seeking an architect who is talented, collaborative, and dependable.

**★★★★★ — Arielle Vela, Dec. 2025**

> Ileana is a great choice when it comes to home design, renovation, ADUs, and SO much more. She is very easy to work with and realy knows how to make houses into homes with her designs. From small projects like bathrooms to large scale home renovation, she is your gal. Her team is also amazingly helpful when she is not available and always takes care of any little doubt or question when needed. She is the RIGHT choice for a home transformation.

**★★★★★ — Synta Keeling, March 2025**

> I had a fantastic experience working with Ileana Schinder for my ADU project in Washington, DC. From the very beginning, Ileana's demonstrated expertise in navigating the DC permitting process for ADUs was evident and reassuring. She brought a wealth of practical knowledge to the table, having successfully designed and obtained permits for numerous similar projects.
>
> One of the most valuable aspects of her service was her ability to resolve significant design challenges that arose. She approached these issues with creativity and a deep understanding of building codes and best practices. Beyond just solving problems, Ileana developed a comprehensive plan to facilitate clear communication and establish effective guidelines with our chosen builder. This proactive approach was instrumental in ensuring a smooth and efficient construction process.
>
> Throughout the project, Ileana's communication was excellent. She was responsive, attentive to our needs, and readily available to answer any questions. Her knowledge of ADU design and construction in DC is truly impressive.
>
> I initially discovered Ileana on Houzz, and I'm so glad I did. I highly recommend her services to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, communicative, and skilled architect for their ADU project in the DC metropolitan area.

**★★★★★ — DRD Studio, April 2024**

> Ileana is one of the most talented Architects I have worked with. She has helped me with a few projects, and her knowledge and attention to detail never fail to impress me. If you need a great Architect for your next project, contact her.

**★★★★★ — Terry Babcock-Lumish, Feb. 2024**

> We can't recommend Ile highly enough. She helped us design and build our solar-powered garage, which is not only functional but beautiful. When undertaking a meaty project, it's a pleasure to have a talented architect one can trust.

**★★★★★ — nat law, Jan. 2024**

> We once were lost, but now we're found... thanks to the amazing Ileana Schinder!  Her keen eye, personality, and professional acumen are helping to transform our 1935 home with the 1979 kitchen into the forever home we've always dreamed of!  Good or bad, word travels fast- we are her third project in my neighborhood, and I've already recommended her to another family,  Excellent experience!

**★★★★★ — tschumacher04, Jan. 2024**

> We partnered with Ileana to help scope, design, and permit an ADU/Guesthouse in Silver Spring, MD.  Ileana was easy to work with and had lots of ideas, took our input and created multiple versions of our design to allow us to fit the best design with the architectural and engineering requirements.  Unfortunately, the Montogomery County Department of Housing is not the easiest to deal with and the permitting process took much longer than expected.  Ileana helped us through it. There were several times when we might have otherwise given up, but Ileana was able to walk us back and continue to brainstorm and problem-solve.  Ultimately we ended with a design that fit all the requirements of MoCO and still held most if not all of our original requirements.

**★★★★★ — ADU vs 2nd Floor Reno, Jan. 2024**

> Ileana was very helpful in her assessment of our DC row house in determining what was better or more affordable in renovation/construction options. I’ll definitely be moving forward with her and her team.

**★★★★★ — Karl Driessen, Jan. 2024**

> Ileana did a great job designing our ADU, and was very helpful with the getting the exemptions approved by the zoning board.

**★★★★ — Remodel + addition in MD, Dec. 2023**

> Ileana was fun to work with, and eventually we arrived at the plan that we wanted after a lot of feedback from us. There were some hiccups along the way, and sometimes she did not seem to listen to what we were saying, but we got there in the end, and that is what counts. She recommended some great contacts to do corollary work in engineering.

**★★★★★ — Jamie Newell, Dec. 2023**

> Very competent.
> If you need a pro to help with permits, Illeana can help!
> Very thoughtful and communicative.
> She provided good alternative views.
> Jamie

## Selected projects

- [Townhouse Reno in DC](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/townhouse-reno-in-dc-pj-vj~7775488)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 17
- [Attic in Washington DC](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/attic-in-washington-dc-pj-vj~7775464)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 13
- [Kitchen Reno @ Brookland, DC](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-reno-brookland-dc-pj-vj~7643553)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 9
- [Additional Dwelling Unit @ Silver Spring, MD](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-silver-spring-md-pj-vj~7643544)
  - Location: Silver Spring, MD
  - Photos: 27
- [Kitchen Reno in Dupon Circle (DC)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-reno-in-dupon-circle-dc-pj-vj~7643529)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 15
- [Additional Dwelling Unit in Brookland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-in-brookland-pj-vj~7643517)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 20
- [Kitchen Reno in Eckington](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-reno-in-eckington-pj-vj~7503210)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 21
- [Additional Dwelling Unit at Hillcrest for Maria](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-at-hillcrest-for-maria-pj-vj~7474074)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 53
- [Reno and Addition in Capitol Hill](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/reno-and-addition-in-capitol-hill-pj-vj~7361861)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 40
- [Addition on Radnor Road](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/addition-on-radnor-road-pj-vj~7361266)
  - Location: Bethesda, MD
  - Photos: 65
- [New Build House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-build-house-pj-vj~7282099)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 13
- [Interior Renovation in Bethesda, MD](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/interior-renovation-in-bethesda-md-pj-vj~7238813)
  - Location: Bethesda, MD
  - Photos: 60
- [Kitchen Reno in DC](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-reno-in-dc-pj-vj~7184987)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 23
- [Additional Dwelling Unit at Hillcrest](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-at-hillcrest-pj-vj~7172858)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 35
- [Additional Dwelling Unit at Brookland, DC](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-at-brookland-dc-pj-vj~7146481)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 21
- [Kitchen Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-renovation-pj-vj~6631753)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 25
- [Additional Dwelling Unit from old garage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-from-old-garage-pj-vj~5796793)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 12
- [Additional Dwelling Unit at Park View](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-at-park-view-pj-vj~7137978)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 28
- [Additional Dwelling Unit at Ingraham St](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-at-ingraham-st-pj-vj~6993653)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 30
- [Additional Dwelling Unit at DC Alley](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/additional-dwelling-unit-at-dc-alley-pj-vj~6993615)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 32

[See all 37 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/ileana-schinder-pfvwus-pf~1829085289)

## Community Q&A

**Q: what is the dimension of the kitchen wall?** *(in Photo Questions)*

what is the dimension/length of the kitchen wall?

A: you mean the length? i'm not sure but all appliances are 24" wide and the cabinets are 18". The dishwasher is 18" wide.

**Q: Why is there no cross bracing between rafters?** *(in Photo Questions)*

Isn't cross bracing required for structural integrity? We have cross bracing and wiring but like the clean lines of having rafters only.

A: Hi Norine, the original structure is from the 1910's so the existing cross bracing is different from what it would be if built today. You can't really see it from the this angle but the cross bracing is located under the drywall portions of the ceiling. No structural elements were removed as the result of the renovation. The only alterations that affected the joists was some drilling to accommodate and hide wiring. Thank you for your question!

**Q: faucet** *(in Photo Questions)*

Who makes it?

A: Hi Stephanie, I looked at the project documents but i couldn't find the model that was used. It must have been picked by the owner. If you want to google it, search for "wall mount bathroom faucet antique" or something like that. I am sure you can find lots of similar options. Sorry I couldn't help more!

**Q: Alternatives to corner pantry in L shape kitchen** *(in Design Dilemma)*

We are building a new home. And plan to use this designer. The current kitchen plan is to have a corner pantry. The kitchen is L shape and 14x14.  I have read that corner pantries have many cons. Does anyone have other ideas where to put the pantry.
thsnk you

A: Hi,
I find that the pantry will create a lot of inefficiencies in the counter top layout. By relocating the island, you may be able to align a butler's pantry or an appliance garage. Feel free to contact me if you want to see alternative designs. 
Cheers!
ileana

**Q: Sound transfer.....** *(in Photo Questions)*

How did removing the insulation from the ceiling effect sound transfer between the basement and first floor? I'm considering doing the same thing with my basement ceiling but worried about echoes across the floor of the first floor. Thanks!

A: Brad, sound insulation wasn't a goal in this project. There is a higher sound transference between the 1st floor and the basement but not something that would be a problem. Granted, both levels are occupied by one family. 
Definitely this is NOT recommended if you have separate occupants on each level.

**Q: How to choose a contractor in the Washington, D.C. area.** *(in Design Dilemma)*

kitchen remodel

A: Hi, I would ask for references to friends and to neighbors. If they had projects recently completed, they will share their experience working with their contractor. Also, once you have a name or two, ask for references and reach out to them. Do not work with anyone who can't provide 2 positive references. 
Feel free to reach out to me and I can give you a few names. Cheers,
ileana

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-28.*