Sandra Mills

Project Architect

Eppstein Uhen Architects

Like many designers, I have a lifelong affinity for learning, meaningful connections, and all things creative. Through design, I’ve found a way to share these talents while enriching the lives in the community I live in- and that is my truest passion. I chased that dream at North Dakota State University where I graduated with both a B.S. and Master’s degree in Architecture. Afterward, I transplanted to our city and am now a practicing architect with EUA in beautiful downtown Milwaukee.

Q) What do you enjoy the most about commercial real estate?
A) I find commercial real estate to be an extension of the passion that steered me towards design: the ability to develop communities. I appreciate the role commercial real estate plays in nurturing businesses. The way it facilitates deals to provide places where people pursue their dreams. When you stitch together enough businesses, a community identity is born- I find that really exciting.

Q) What is the best piece of advice you have received?
A) I had a mentor in school who counseled me on work-life balance and one particular line has always stuck with me: “How you are most of the time- is how you are.” It reminds me that productivity and inspiration come in waves and it’s okay if some days aren’t as full as others. So long as I am consistently working towards my goals, I know I don’t need to sweat the small stuff.

Q) What is your favorite quote?
A) “All the flowers of all the tomorrow’s are in the seeds of today” -Robin Craig Clark. It’s simple but hopeful and captures the idea that we must take action today to create a beautiful future.

Q) Where did you grow up?
A) I grew up in a quiet farm town in the rolling plains of North Dakota. It was a peaceful place, full of kind neighbors and genuine connections. It was also very very cold. It was during those bitter cold winters that I honed my craft by playing PC games, most notably The Sims 2. I realized I loved the iterative design process after losing countless hours perfecting my character’s house. When I discovered a profession that combined my interest in digital modeling with a larger community impact, I knew it was perfect for me.

Q) What was cool when you were growing up but isn’t cool now?
A) Light-up sneakers! I’m convinced my love for spontaneous dance was born from goofing around with my friends.

Q) What’s your favorite place to travel to?
A) Honestly anywhere new! Taking time to reflect and appreciate each destination for its unique character is absolutely part of the fun. Whether a city is grand and bright, or simple and quaint, all of my favorite travel memories are from places that own their individuality.

Q) What made you choose Commercial Real Estate?
A) As a project architect, I have the unique ability to create and improve spaces that people use every day. I chose to pursue a career in building design (and subsequently real estate) because I am deeply dedicated to the growth and wellness of people, the betterment of design, and sustainable practices to protect our planet.

Q) What do you hope to get out of your NextGen Experience?
A) Although practicing architecture and real estate are two separate industries, there is still a significant intersection between the two. Through this program, I hope to gain an understanding of the inner workings of the commercial real estate industry. I believe learning the business side of property development would help me as a designer establish priorities and understand clients’ needs better. Most of all, I hope this course helps broaden my perspective and lends me the opportunity to learn about client relations and the process they undertake prior to stepping into an architecture firm.

Q) Anything else you would like to share?
A) I am so excited to be a part of the NextGen Class of 2023! Cheers to a great year ahead.