Erich Dohrer

AICP
Principal, Retail, Chicago

Erich is an urban planner driven by a deep curiosity about how cities work. His lifelong interest in understanding the systems that make places vibrant, engaging, and memorable has shaped his focus on large-scale mixed-use and retail planning. He excels in planning strategy, experiential design, and paying careful attention to detail, believing that great projects succeed when they are not only inspiring, but also financially viable and operationally sound.

Often working in an advisory role, Erich helps clients and stakeholders uncover what he calls a project’s “heart and soul.” He thrives on collaboration and enjoys guiding diverse teams toward clear, thoughtful decisions grounded in both vision and practicality. The design and planning process is as meaningful as the finished result, and he values the lasting relationships that have grown from his work.

Communication is central to Erich’s approach. He fosters open, respectful team environments and enjoys serving as a mentor and sounding board. He believes learning goes both ways and credits junior team members with teaching him as much as he teaches them.

  • This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Urban design is about creating places that people love and want to be in. Despite the continual changes in our industry, that fundamental truth always endures.
Erich is working on a multi-year visual essay to meticulously document the impacts of the built world on his life.
fun fact
Erich starts every design by putting pen to paper. His habit of “talking with his pen” helps spark clear conversations, and it leads to better-informed clients and—inevitably—one of the messiest desks in the studio.