Why did you become an Architect? My brother was taking some pre-engineering classes in high school, and I thought what he was studying seemed really interesting. The same teacher also taught a class on architectural drafting, so I signed up for that as well. I was actually started off my studies in college as a dual Structural Engineering and Architecture major, before ultimately deciding on Architecture.
What do you like most about Architecture? My favorite part about architecture is finding a solution to the client’s problem; it’s like solving a puzzle with multiple answers, and it’s always such a fun challenge to figure out what solution will best fit the client’s needs. That’s why programming is my favorite phase of design, because you really get to look at all the possible options in detail and find the one with the best outcome.
What’s a misconception people tend to have about Architecture as a profession? You don’t just have to know about architecture to be successful – being an architect requires constant collaboration with other professions and other disciplines. That means you have to know about so many things outside of architecture, too.
Do you have a favorite project you’ve worked on? I worked on a project for the Rhode Island Veteran’s Home, which was particularly rewarding. I had the privilege of getting to know the veterans there while helping to create a project that made a positive impact in the community. This project was also a turning point in my career – I learned so much working on the Veteran’s Home and gained so much confidence in myself and my abilities. I left feeling like I was capable of so much more than I had before.
What do you like to do outside of work? I like to do anything that gets me outside, like sailing or skiing. I’m a coach for my daughter’s soccer team, and love taking my kids to fun places like the zoo or aquarium. I also love reading and try to read whenever I get some time to myself.