Member Spotlight | Anna Bogler

Education: Iowa State University

Employer with Location: ANNA Design Studio Omaha, Nebraska

Years in Design: 20

Years in IIDA: 1

IIDA Great Plains Chapter City Center: Omaha City Center

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How do you record your ideas?  

Most of my ideas begin with a felt-tip pen and a blank page in my sketchbook. I still believe there's something irreplaceable about slowing down and sketching by hand, allowing ideas to emerge without judgment.

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What’s your favorite project that you’ve worked on and why?

Without question, Denver Union Station.  Early in my career, I had the opportunity to work alongside developer and preservationist Dana Crawford during the station's redevelopment. It was the project that made me realize I wanted to create places, not just design spaces.

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Do you have any rules or philosophies that steer you in design and/or career?

I believe great design begins by listening.  Every project has a story waiting to be uncovered. Whether it's the history of a building, the culture of a company, or the aspirations of the people who will use the space.

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What type/niche of design are you most passionate about?

I'm most passionate about placemaking. I love creating environments where design, art, storytelling, and community come together to create meaningful experiences.

To me, great design goes beyond aesthetics. It creates memorable experiences, strengthens communities, and gives people a reason to gather. Projects that blend architecture, interiors, public art, and environmental graphics are especially exciting because every layer of the experience contributes to a cohesive story.

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Is there anyone specific who would be a dream to collaborate with?

I'd love to collaborate with Theaster Gates. His work challenges the traditional boundaries between artist, designer, developer, and community builder. I deeply admire how he transforms existing places into cultural destinations while honoring their history and creating opportunities for connection. That's the kind of impact I hope to make through my own work, using design, art, and placemaking to create spaces that people remember and communities embrace.

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What might we find on your desk right now?

A small bouquet of fresh flowers, a selenite crystal, a Diet Coke, and about 20 Post-it Notes covered with my ever-evolving to-do list. It's equal parts organized chaos and creative energy.

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