In our ongoing series of profiles on industry movers and shakers, we spoke with electrical engineer Patreace Thornton to learn about her pathway into the profession.
More »Designer Q & A: Lauren Shumate, AIA
Contributor: Margaret Hancock
How did you come to architecture as a profession?
As an undergrad, I began studying historic preservation at a small liberal arts school. I quickly realized that my personal interest in the built environment was not just about researching, but about designing. So, I transferred to the University of Virginia and switched my academic focus to architecture — and loved every minute of it. After graduation, I worked for an architecture firm in Philadelphia for several years before returning to UVA for graduate school.
More »Designer Q & A: Simone Saidel, AIA
Contributor: Margaret Hancock
You are currently designing corporate interiors. What excites you about this niche and working with corporate clients?
Last year, I shifted to my current firm OPX from a small local firm in Alexandria. This is an exciting transition for me because in addition to a more distinct focus on corporate spaces, my portfolio is now at a national level with clients throughout America. It is invigorating as an architect and a self-identified “people person” to travel and meet with different individuals, and it is rewarding to help a company and its constituents transition into a new phase.
More »Designer Q & A: Thom White, AIA
Contributor: Margaret Hancock
What was your personal path to becoming an architect?
Accounts from my mom say that I wanted to be an architect early on. When visiting Virginia Tech, I fell in love with the architecture school and in my fourth year, had the good fortune of interning in Europe. That internship proved a formative experience for me as I spent six months in Berlin working alongside two Tech grads as they operated their international office.
More »Landscape Profiles (and more) Coming Soon
Inform Magazine will be bringing you profiles of landscape projects, designers, engineers, interiors, contractors, and more. Do you know a project that should be featured? Do you know someone whose story should be shared? Contact the editor with your suggestions and watch this space for more incredible work originating in Virginia.