2026 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Leila Colbert, RA, LEED AP BD+C, Montroy Architecture

What was the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in the past 12 months, and why?

I recently merged my office with Montroy Architecture and became a principal within the firm. I am currently focusing on growing our K-12 educational, hospitality and residential portfolios, in addition to Montroy’s commercial, workplace and retail practices. One of our exciting new projects is the redevelopment of outdoor play areas at the Children’s Learning Center of Fairfield County in Stamford, CT. I am also assisting the team working on a feasibility study for one of our major real estate developer clients, to convert a large commercial property in Manhattan into a mixed-use building.

What trend or change in commercial real estate do you believe will have the biggest impact over the next five years?

The reduced demand for office space coupled with the desire for more housing options and the “City of Yes” legislation are already leading to an increase in the conversions of under-utilized commercial buildings to multi-family residential use in New York City. I think we’ll start to see a lot more mixed-use (multi-family/commercial/retail) projects that will activate otherwise dormant neighborhoods into lively places where people not only work but also live.

What leadership lesson has made the greatest impact on your career?

The understanding that success of every project depends on a team effort. In addition, early in my career, I learned the value of contractors’ experience. This came from some of my early jobs at mid-level practices where even entry level architects are expected to wear many hats and be very hands on with every phase of a project. It is important for young design professionals to be exposed to the practical side of how design and construction impact each other and how both influence the project’s ultimate success.