Erin Nies
Associate + Senior Project Leader
University of Southern California – School of Architecture
Erin is an Associate and Senior Project Leader in GFF’s Austin Office, bringing more than 20 years of experience spanning architecture, interiors, FF&A design and procurement, and firm operations. Known for her strategic approach, Erin has built her career at the intersection of design and business leadership—guiding complex projects while implementing scalable systems that support organizational growth.
Prior to joining GFF, Erin served as Principal and COO at Mark Odom Studio, where she oversaw operations, staffing, processes, and technology strategy during a period of rapid expansion. She also founded and led Studio LLOU, an interiors and FF&A practice, and directed architectural and interiors projects at Rhode Partners, where her work earned multiple national and international design awards. Earlier in her career, she contributed to a variety of design firms in Austin and Los Angeles.
Erin holds credentials in change management and business leadership, including Harvard Business School’s CORe Program and certification in Leading Change and Organizational Renewal. A LEED Accredited Professional, she is particularly interested in design-forward solutions that integrate data analytics, emerging technologies, and sustainable practices.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Erin brings both a creative and analytical mindset to her work, with a passion for mentorship, collaboration, and problem-solving that leads to elegant, well-crafted outcomes.
Erin is an Associate and Senior Project Leader in GFF’s Austin Office, bringing more than 20 years of experience spanning architecture, interiors, FF&A design and procurement, and firm operations. Known for her strategic approach, Erin has built her career at the intersection of design and business leadership—guiding complex projects while implementing scalable systems that support organizational growth.
Prior to joining GFF, Erin served as Principal and COO at Mark Odom Studio, where she oversaw operations, staffing, processes, and technology strategy during a period of rapid expansion. She also founded and led Studio LLOU, an interiors and FF&A practice, and directed architectural and interiors projects at Rhode Partners, where her work earned multiple national and international design awards. Earlier in her career, she contributed to a variety of design firms in Austin and Los Angeles.
Erin holds credentials in change management and business leadership, including Harvard Business School’s CORe Program and certification in Leading Change and Organizational Renewal. A LEED Accredited Professional, she is particularly interested in design-forward solutions that integrate data analytics, emerging technologies, and sustainable practices.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Erin brings both a creative and analytical mindset to her work, with a passion for mentorship, collaboration, and problem-solving that leads to elegant, well-crafted outcomes.