Sharon Exley

Sharon Exley, MAAE is an author and educative designer bringing a vocabulary of design to children. In 1994, she co-founded Architecture Is Fun, Inc., a Chicago research-based architecture and design firm with a focus on play, public space and learning environments for children, families, and communities. In 2012, Exley kick-started Fun Finders, the woman-owned business that designs and curates distinctive art, furnishings, décor, and objects of curiosity. Her award-winning educational environments are recognized for being imbued with relevance, literacy, art and play. She volunteers with many community groups, serves on local boards, and was honored with the Gem of the Community Award from Archi-treasures, where she took part in art-based revitalization projects of many of Chicago’s neglected neighborhoods.

Exley’s educational and design experience informs her writing and blogging for design and children’s publications. Her previous books include Design for Kids and The Best of Everything For Your Baby (co-authored with Les Krantz).