What is your favorite example of architecture and why?
The work of Mies van der Rohe stands out in my mind as a standard bearer because I began studying architecture in Chicago where many examples of his work exist and are celebrated. The purity of form, order, detail, restraint, and resulting elegance sings to me.
The Salk Institute, LaJolla, CA by Louis Kahn
The interplay between the heaviness of the materials and moments of lightness and relief are dazzling. The vantage point from the water feature leading your eye to the Pacific Ocean is magical.
Duomo, Florence, Italy
Seeing the Duomo for the first time put me in a state of breathlessness and sensory overload, but in an exciting way!
The last good book I read was
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. The characters were so well developed, and their observations, curiosities, and banter were so entertaining. I went on to finish the trilogy so I could see how it all ended.
Favorite project I’ve worked on
Whichever one I’m currently working on. Every project has new goals, challenges, team dynamics, and rewards, and there’s always something new to learn.
When I’m not designing architecture you can find me…
walking or running in the city, listening to music, being outdoors, and spending time with my family and friends.
Childhood dream job
I wanted to drive a steam roller. I grew up on the Cape and would spend hours playing in the sand. I had a favorite dump truck and would plan roads and city blocks, but smoothing out the roads was meditative and seemed to satisfy a then-unnamed but growing desire for clean lines.
Favorite phase of design
I love the construction phase. The greatest mentorship I ever received was during the construction process, going deep into the contract documents, watching designs get built, and resolving issues in the field with a group of skilled tradespeople who bring different points of view to the table for shared problem-solving. The construction phase makes you a much better designer and informs the questions you ask during a design phase.
What gives you joy?
My son and daughter, family, and friendships. Music. Living in the City. Going back home to the Cape.
Who inspires you?
Creative people who are doing their own thing and tuning out the noise. Curious people, who ask questions and who seek out new experiences. My mentors who so generously share and encourage me to do the same for others.
Favorite music
I love all music and listen to it constantly throughout the day at work and at home. Mostly jazz while I am working, but hip hop, jazz, dance music, The Dead, disco, 70’s folk – my taste is really all over the place.
