How do you approach design?
I’d say I am 100% urbanite, but the truth is, I feel equally at home in the serene isolation of remote nature as in the energizing pulse of the city. This duality has affected my approach to design, where I enjoy bringing small moments of one environment into the other — a high density multifamily housing project with a moment of respite created by a high window looking out to the sky, or rural school centered on a gathering space for student activity. As designers we have the privilege and responsibility of altering the aesthetics, usability, and social and environmental health of the ecosystems in which we’re building. A space’s aesthetics and form impact the experience of those who it was designed for, as well as those who participate in the broader context. I am interested in looking at both perspectives.
When did you know you wanted to be an architect?
I decided to become an architect when I realized underground in Turkey that the seemingly random built fabric we occupy is actually based on a series of decisions informed by how we choose to live. I knew I wanted to be part of that process – creating built form out of lifestyle. I have great fun taking this work seriously.
Education: Master of Architecture, University of Oregon; Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, University of California, Berkeley
Licenses & Accreditations: Licensed Architect, California; LEED AP BD+C
Organizations & Memberships: Urban Land Institute; American Institute of Architects; ULI LA Housing Council Committee Member
