I was always drawn to art and design, and to the intricacy and beauty of the natural world. The clearings and rock formations in the woods where I grew up helped to form my sense of the importance of place. My first long-term position was with Caldwell Architects, which was a great learning environment. With primarily public and educational clients, this was where I came to really appreciate what architects can contribute to our communities. During the recession in 2009, I went to work for a glazing subcontractor, then for a fenestration manufacturer. A position in the architecture department of a construction management firm gave me experience assisting the owner’s representative, and my next position was with a building enclosure consulting firm. Being on different sides of the table provided insight into the varied roles it takes to get a project completed.
As architects, we share a strong conviction that the design of buildings and places matters, and a dedication to improving the built world. I enjoy integrating technical information and solving problems, but the most satisfaction comes from seeing how the process contributes to the larger picture, feeling that I'm part of a greater effort within my industry and community.
As a woman in the building industry, I have seen how not everyone is treated equally, and how some will make assumptions based on gender. At times I have observed a tendency to interpret a woman's statements as being more personal in nature, and therefore easier to dismiss. I tend to take an information-based approach, stating my position and the facts, and standing my ground when needed. However, it can take more effort to have one’s concerns taken seriously.
Many colleagues and fellow members of professional organizations have served as role models. Kate Diamond, FAIA has been a strong role model and mentor over the years, encouraging my interest in environmentally responsible design. The principals at my current firm, RKTB, including Carmi Bee, FAIA and Peter Bafitis, AIA, share a commitment to improving the existing urban fabric through socially conscious design.
A fun project early in my career was a temporary library for a local community college, designed by Caldwell Architects. Our office held a staff competition to gather ideas for the entry ramp and canopy design. I took over the project during construction, so got to participate in both ends of the process. The National Center for the Preservation of Democracy at the Japanese American National Museum, designed by Levin & Associates, was a great project, combining historic preservation and adaptive reuse with new construction. The most impactful project was a rehabilitation of several NYC Housing Authority developments in Brooklyn, with RKTB and Magnusson Architecture and Planning. The developer-led team renovated over a thousand residential units, plus common spaces and community centers, to improve the performance and livability of the complex.
