Mission Statement

Architecture is the fabrication of experience through the design of space. It does not necessarily mean building buildings or drawing floor plans. In the words of Juhani Pallasmaa, architecture “is a direct expression of existence, of human presence in the world.” I believe that architecture is a direct expression based on a poetry which neither the designer nor the occupants experiencing it are necessarily aware.

Part of my mission is to create spaces that enhance the experience of its occupants. This is important because too often in architecture the needs of the user are not considered or they are sacrificed in order to save money or to make something that looks hip or trendy but isn’t really functional. I do want to make spaces that are aesthetically appropriate, I think it is important to examine how the aesthetics will either enhance or lessen the experience of inhabiting any particular space.

The other part of my mission is to facilitate change and improvement in society through the medium of architecture. My goal is to help make conditions for people better locally in my own community as well as for the larger region – state, country, and world – that I inhabit. I feel that this can be achieved not only by being involved in community affairs, but also by taking a critical approach to design solutions and the experiences they will enhance and generate. I want the work I produce to have a positive impact on both the community and the environment. To put it simply, I want to leave the world a better place.

With life, I believe that everything I’ve ever done, all of the experiences that I’ve ever had so far are what make me who I am today. I think it is important to allow these experiences, as well as new ones, to inform and shape my views. By examining these experiences and my perception of them, I am able to understand my own driving forces and intentions. Having a better understanding of my experiences and their meaning helps me to fulfill my mission as an aspiring architect.

Life is about experiencing as much as you can while you are alive. It’s not only important to be open to new experiences, but also to seek them out. The more I experience, the more I grow as a person, and the richer life becomes. Consequently, the work I produce becomes more meaningful as well.