Karin Liljegren has first-hand experience in the challenges of creating a “live/work” environment. In addition to her full-time job as senior associate at Killefer Flammang Architects, she recently started her own design company from her downtown L.A. loft condo.

“It’s really important that living spaces are extremely flexible,” Liljegren said. “Some people need a laptop with a big, comfy couch and ottoman, or an entire conference room.”

At Killefer, she’s the lead architect for concept design through construction of lofts, public buildings and hotels. At her home business, she designs apartments and condo projects. She has also begun to help clients conceive live/work spaces. She has four guiding principles in doing so: An open floor plan has to be shaped into something that’s pleasing, efficient, functional and urban.

Liljegren will be speaking on the topic of live/work spaces Wednesday at the Downtown Breakfast Club, an organization that promotes business in the area, at the California Club in downtown Los Angeles.

In Los Angeles, where urbanization has become a key word in discussing the city’s future, the impact is looming larger, said Alex Moradi, managing partner of Ico Investment Group, which developed the Pacific Electric Lofts in downtown Los Angeles, who will also be at the breakfast meeting.

“It’s a lifestyle change,” Moradi said. “As Los Angeles becomes more urbanized, you’re going to see a lot more live/work buildings.”