I am a Design Lead specializing in built environment experiences that blend architecture, storytelling, and sustainability. Grounded in inclusive design, accessibility, and human-centered brand strategy, I create purposeful spaces and meaningful experiences for guests and customers. Currently only open to remote opportunities (travel ok.)…

Lili Trenkova

I am a Design Lead specializing in built environment experiences that blend architecture, storytelling, and sustainability. Grounded in inclusive design, accessibility, and human-centered brand strategy, I create purposeful spaces and meaningful experiences for guests and customers. Currently only open to remote opportunities (travel ok.)…

Available to hire

I am a Design Lead specializing in built environment experiences that blend architecture, storytelling, and sustainability. Grounded in inclusive design, accessibility, and human-centered brand strategy, I create purposeful spaces and meaningful experiences for guests and customers. Currently only open to remote opportunities (travel ok.)

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Skills

Experience Level

Language

English
Fluent
Bulgarian
Fluent
Spanish; Castilian
Advanced

Work Experience

Design Lead at Self-Employed
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2017
Lead designer for permanent and temporary environments for retail, technology, and branded events; developed 3D visualization and design intent packages; established and maintained brand store design standards, fixture libraries, and visual merchandising guidelines; collaborated with fabricators and stakeholders to ensure quality execution and ROI; championed inclusive and sustainable design practices; oversaw prototyping, material selection, and vendor coordination for fabrication and installation.
Architectural Designer at Gensler – Retail & Hospitality Studio
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2020
Designed and documented retail, hospitality, and F&B environments from concept to construction; created full design and millwork packages including plans, elevations, and detailed fixture drawings; coordinated with architects, consultants, and construction managers to ensure adherence to brand standards, codes, and budgetary requirements; developed mood boards, 3D models, and visualizations to support client reviews and presentations; integrated sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems into store and fixture designs.
Physical Designer at Gensler – Digital Experience Studio
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2024
Led spatial design for interactive, kinetic, and digital activations across retail, workplace, and exhibit environments, integrating architectural design with value-driven digital storytelling; produced schematic and detailed design documentation; partnered cross-functionally with brand, architecture, technology, and fabrication teams; championed inclusive and sustainable design practices; oversaw prototyping, material selection, and vendor coordination for fabrication and installation.
Architectural and Experiential Designer at Self-Employed
June 17, 2024 - Present
Lead designer for permanent and temporary environments for retail, technology, and brand events, focusing on immersive experiences and interactive storytelling; develops 3D visualizations and design intent packages; establishes and maintains brand standards for stores, fixtures, and visual merchandising; collaborates with fabricators, brands, and stakeholders to ensure quality execution and ROI, while championing inclusive and sustainable design practices.

Education

MFA Scenic Design at CUNY Brooklyn College
January 11, 2030 - April 15, 2026
BA Set and Lighting Design at Hamilton College
August 14, 2000 - May 21, 2004

Qualifications

Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (IAAP)
December 16, 2022 - April 15, 2026
LEED Green Associate (USGBC)
January 11, 2030 - April 15, 2026
Fitwel Ambassador (Center for Active Design)
January 11, 2030 - April 15, 2026

Industry Experience

Retail, Real Estate & Construction, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Travel & Hospitality, Financial Services, Non-Profit Organization, Consumer Goods, Education

Skills

Experience Level