Education is at the heart of what I do. 100% of Architecture for Education's work are educational spaces; whether we're designing a new K-12 school, a culinary center for at risk youth, an outdoor maker space, or converting an old basement to geology labs - every project has opportunities to influence.
As the Design Principal at A4E, I am fairly young in my career, but tasked with leading the design at our office. I believe that seeing various types of educational spaces first hand, can only serve to improve my knowledge, invigorate my ideas, and sustain my passion.
Growing up in Germany (although I've never been to Berlin!) provides me with a unique vantage point. I speak fluent German and English, and having been engrained in both cultures, I hope to offer an uncommon perspective to conference goers.
I have also always had a passion for writing and architectural theory and criticism. As a former Director/ Editor-in-Chief for the AIA NAC's bi-annual online publication, Forward, I am no stranger to putting together layouts, editing and coming up with topics. I have been fortunate to co-author a series of architecture history textbooks and recently gave my first lecture at the CEFPI conference in San Diego on Makerspaces.
I attended the Fall CAE Conference in San Francisco in 2013. Talking to architects that were extremely experienced in school design, listening to the informative lectures, and walking through some amazingly creative schools, has left a lasting impression on me. I still often refer to the photos I took on that trip as inspiration and reference on my own projects.
The opportunity to visit schools in Berlin first hand - to learn about a whole new set of guidelines, curriculum and ways of building educational spaces - is why I believe attending this conference will benefit my growth, career, and honing my craft.