Honoree Profile

Irina Katrevich

AECOM

Title: Interior Designer
Tenure at Firm: 4 Year
Nominating Principal: Matthew Rebbe, Principal, Design Director, Interiors
School: Far Eastern Federal University
Major: Architecture

Inspired By:

I am inspired by people—their stories, daily rituals, and the ways environments quietly shape how they live, work, and connect. Observing how spaces influence movement, mood, and interaction continually informs my approach to design and reinforces the responsibility that comes with shaping the built environment.

Art is a constant source of inspiration for me, offering a lens for expression, emotion, and exploration. It encourages curiosity and experimentation, allowing me to see space, material, and form in new ways. Through art, I find freedom to question conventions and deepen my sensitivity to human experience.

I am equally inspired by sustainability and the potential of biodegradable and responsible materials to create meaningful, lasting impact. Thoughtful material choices have the power to reduce harm while enhancing beauty and performance. Designing with longevity and environmental awareness in mind allows me to align creativity with care—for both people and the world they inhabit.

Keys to a Successful Project:

A successful project is rooted in collaboration. Strong team effort—built on trust, open communication, and shared respect—allows ideas to evolve into something greater than any one perspective alone. When designers, partners, and stakeholders work together with intention, the process becomes as meaningful as the outcome. Equally essential is a client’s vision and willingness to engage in the journey. Projects thrive when there is mutual trust and a shared commitment to purpose, allowing design to move beyond surface aesthetics and respond authentically to real needs and aspirations.
At its core, passion for design drives every successful project. Storytelling gives form to that passion, weaving meaning, identity, and experience into the space. When design is guided by a clear purpose—one that connects people, place, and narrative—the result is work that feels intentional, resonant, and enduring.

Which experiences have most influenced how you approach design?

My approach to design has been shaped by learning how people think, move, and feel in space. Understanding ergonomics and the psychological impact of environments has taught me that good design goes beyond aesthetics—it should support comfort, behavior, and well-being. Professionally, I’ve grown through hands-on experience and continued learning around sustainable product alternatives, reinforcing the importance of making responsible, long-lasting design choices. Learning art and history has played a key role in shaping how I think about storytelling, context, and meaning.

“Irina exemplifies design excellence as a cornerstone of the AECOM Chicago Interiors practice. Her unwavering commitment to serving both clients and team members sets her apart as a leader who inspires trust and collaboration. With a portfolio that spans diverse project types and scales, Irina brings a depth of experience and expertise that positions her as a trusted advisor to clients and a guiding force within her team. Her collaborative spirit shines through every project, and she is emerging as a strong mentor to early career professionals and those new to the practice of Interior Design. Irina’s ability to foster growth and share knowledge demonstrates her dedication to shaping the next generation of designers. Beyond her professional contributions, Irina actively champions the design community as a board member of the IIDA Illinois Chapter. Her involvement in research and thought leadership initiatives underscores her commitment to advancing the profession and advocating for the transformative power of design. Irina is the embodiment of a well-rounded designer—mindful of her influence and passionate about what great design can achieve through collaboration. Her leadership, advocacy, and mentorship make her an outstanding candidate for this recognition.”

Matthew Rebbe
Principal, Design Director, Interiors

Favorite Haworth Collection Piece & Why:

I’m drawn to the Archibald Lounge Chair for how effortlessly it combines comfort, ergonomics, and beauty. It feels inviting the moment you sit down—the soft leather, gentle curves, and subtle give make it a chair you naturally want to linger in. The way it supports the body feels intuitive rather than prescribed, offering comfort without sacrificing elegance. What I appreciate most is its balance: ergonomically thoughtful yet relaxed, refined yet approachable. The tailored stitching and slender profile give it a sculptural quality, while its warmth and tactility make it feel human and lived in. It’s a piece that proves comfort and aesthetics don’t have to compete—they can quietly enhance one another and elevate the experience of a space.

Your current favorite color (RGB, CMYK, or HEX#):

R:61 G:66 B:53