How can architects shape cities through public service?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee sits down with Rico Quirindongo, Director of the Office of Planning and Community Development for the City of Seattle. After spending 27 years in architectural practice, Rico transitioned into civic leadership, where he now influences urban policy and planning at a citywide scale. His journey highlights the vital role architects can play in shaping more equitable and resilient communities.

The conversation begins with Rico’s path from traditional practice to public service, including his early career at Donald King Architects, his work at DLR Group, and his passion for community-driven design. He shares how his architecture background informs his leadership in city planning and the ways design thinking can create meaningful policy change.

Evelyn and Rico explore the intersection of architecture, urban planning, and policy, discussing how architects can expand their impact beyond buildings to address systemic issues like housing, transportation, and equity. They also talk about the need for more architects in public leadership roles and how professionals can position themselves for opportunities in government.

"Most people don’t realize how much design impacts their daily lives. Architects have the skills to shape policy, influence communities, and build a more just future—we just need to step up and do it." – Rico Quirindongo

The episode concludes with a call to action for architects to get involved in civic leadership, from volunteering on committees to pursuing roles in public service, and the importance of storytelling in demonstrating the value of design in policymaking.

Rico Quirindongo AIA, is the Director of the Office of Planning and Community Development for the City of Seattle, where he leads citywide planning initiatives and equitable development strategies. Before transitioning to public service, he spent 27 years in architectural practice, including leadership roles at Donald King Architects and DLR Group. He is a passionate advocate for community-focused design and increasing the presence of architects in civic leadership.

This episode is for you if:

• You’re an architect interested in making a larger impact beyond traditional practice.
• You’re curious about how architects can influence urban planning and policy.
• You want to explore opportunities in civic leadership and public service.

What have you done to take action lately? Share your thoughts with us on social media and join the conversation!

📍 Show Links:

• Connect with Rico Quirindongo on LinkedIn
• Follow Rico Quirindongo on Instagram
• Follow Rico Quirindongo on X
• Follow Rico Quirindongo on Bluesky
• Learn more about SeattleOPCD on Facebook
• Connect with SeattleOPCD on LinkedIn
• Learn more about SeattleOPCD on Instagram
• Learn more about SeattleOPCD on X

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How can storytelling empower women in architecture?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee talks with Jadyn Anderson about the power of storytelling and advocacy in architecture. As a Master of Architecture student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and junior designer at Zimmerman Architectural Studios, Jadyn is deeply invested in fostering community and representation within the profession. She is the creator of When in Doubt, a self-published zine that brings visibility to women’s experiences in architecture through interviews, artwork, and personal narratives. As President of Women in Design Students at UWM and a recipient of the 2023 AIAS Advocacy and Impact Honor Award, she is committed to creating spaces where young designers feel supported and empowered.

The conversation begins with Jadyn’s inspiration for When in Doubt, which stemmed from a personal experience that made her question her place in the profession. Instead of letting doubt hold her back, she transformed it into action, using design as a tool for advocacy and connection. She shares how the zine weaves together stories from established women architects with artwork from young girls just beginning to imagine their futures in design.

Evelyn and Jadyn discuss the impact When in Doubt has had on students and professionals alike, as well as the importance of creating spaces for women in architecture to feel supported and empowered. They explore the process of bringing the zine to life, the craft behind its production, and the growing movement it has sparked.

"If you’re in doubt, don’t let it push you out of architecture—let it fuel you to take action." – Jadyn Anderson

The episode concludes with insights on the next steps for When in Doubt, including plans for a second volume, expanding its reach, and how architects at all levels can contribute to a more inclusive profession.

Jadyn Anderson is a Master of Architecture student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and junior designer at Zimmerman Architectural Studios. She is the creator of When in Doubt, a zine amplifying women's experiences in architecture through storytelling and art. As president of Women in Design Students at UWM, she is dedicated to fostering community and advocacy within the profession. In 2023, she was recognized with the AIAS Advocacy and Impact Honor Award for her contributions to advancing equity in architecture.

📍 Show Links:

• Connect with Jadyn Anderson on LinkedIn
• Follow Jadyn Anderson on Instagram
• Explore When in Doubt zine

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How a non-technical founder built a tech solution to transform material selection for architects.

In the latest episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee sits down with Vardhan Mehta, co-founder of AceLab, an AI-powered platform transforming how architects research and specify building materials. Vardhan shares his journey from practicing architect to tech entrepreneur, the inefficiencies he saw in traditional material selection, and how AceLab is helping firms make faster, data-driven product decisions.

The conversation begins with Vardhan’s early career working on complex building envelopes for U.S. embassies and high-profile projects at MIT and Yale. He describes how his experiences in traditional architecture firms highlighted the challenges architects face when balancing sustainability, cost, performance, and aesthetics in material selection. Recognizing the need for a better solution, he co-founded AceLab with the mission of streamlining the process through AI-driven insights.

Evelyn and Vardhan explore the intersection of architecture, entrepreneurship, and technology, discussing what it means to be a non-technical founder in a tech-driven space. They also discuss the role of AI in democratizing access to high-quality material data, making informed decisions easier for firms of all sizes.

"If architects want to retain control over project outcomes, we need better tools to navigate the complexity of material selection." – Vardhan Mehta

The episode concludes with insights into venture funding, industry adoption, and advice for architects interested in launching their own startups or integrating AI into their workflows.

Vardhan Mehta, AIA, CSI is a non-technical co-founder of AceLab, an AI-powered platform revolutionizing material research and selection for architects. Before launching AceLab, he worked on complex building envelopes for U.S. embassies and led material innovation projects at MIT and Yale. Recognized on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for manufacturing and industry, Vardhan is passionate about bridging the gap between architecture and technology to improve design decision-making.

📍 Show Links:

• Connect with Vardhan Mehta on LinkedIn
• Follow AceLab on  LinkedIn
• Learn more about AceLab
• Follow AceLab on Instagram

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In the latest episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping workflows in architecture firms. She is joined by Emily Lotterer, National Marketing Operations Leader at CannonDesign, and Joel Yow, Director of Digital Products, to discuss the firm’s AI-powered tool, Billie. Designed as an internal AI companion, Billie helps streamline knowledge sharing, improve efficiency, and enhance collaboration across the firm.

The conversation begins with the origins of Billie, which started as an AI hackathon project before evolving into a firm-wide tool. Emily and Joel share insights on how CannonDesign built and implemented Billy, balancing automation with human expertise to ensure security, accuracy, and practical value. They discuss how the tool is used across different departments, from marketing and HR to project teams searching for critical design data.

Evelyn and her guests also explore the broader implications of AI in architecture, from ethical considerations to the evolving role of architects in a technology-driven workplace. They discuss the importance of data quality, adoption strategies, and how AI can free up time for architects to focus on high-value, creative work.

"AI isn’t here to replace architects—it’s here to help us focus on what we do best." – Joel Yow

The episode concludes with reflections on the future of AI in architecture and advice for firms looking to integrate AI tools into their workflows.

Emily Lotterer is the National Marketing Operations Leader at CanonDesign, where she specializes in optimizing marketing systems, streamlining workflows, and integrating technology into business development strategies. She played a key role in shaping Billie, ensuring that AI supports—rather than replaces—human creativity and collaboration.

Joel Yow is the Director of Digital Products at CanonDesign, where he leads AI and technology initiatives that enhance design processes and firm-wide efficiency. With a background in design, entrepreneurship, and data strategy, he previously founded Linear A, a firm focused on integrating data-driven insights into architecture and design.

📍 Show Links:

• Connect with Emily Lotterer on LinkedIn
• Connect with Joel Yow on LinkedIn
• Learn more about CanonDesign

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How can hip hop and architecture create a more inclusive future?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee sits down with Michael Ford, architect, entrepreneur, and founder of the Hip Hop Architecture Camp. Known as "The Hip Hop Architect," Michael has dedicated his career to increasing diversity in architecture by using hip-hop as a tool for education, storytelling, and activism.

The conversation begins with Michael’s journey into architecture and the origins of the Hip Hop Architecture Camp. This nationwide initiative introduces underrepresented youth to design through the lens of hip-hop culture. He shares how the camp has evolved over the past nine years, leading to scholarships, mentorship programs, and even international collaborations.

Evelyn and Michael also explore his work beyond education, including his role in designing the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, set to open in 2026. They discuss how hip hop serves as an unfiltered critique of urban spaces, and why architects should pay attention to the stories embedded in lyrics.

"If you don’t like what hip hop is saying about the built environment, start designing better cities." – Michael Ford

The episode wraps with a discussion of Michael’s entrepreneurial ventures, including his collaborations with brands like Herman Miller and Shaw Contract and the launch of his firm, BrandNu Design Studio. He shares insights on navigating alternative revenue streams, balancing mission-driven work with business sustainability, and advice for young designers forging their own paths in the industry.

Michael Ford is an architect, educator, and entrepreneur known for his pioneering work at the intersection of hip hop and architecture. He is the founder of the Hip Hop Architecture Camp, an award-winning program that introduces youth to architecture through music and storytelling. As the principal of BrandNu Design Studio, Michael leads projects that focus on cultural representation, including the design of the Universal Hip Hop Museum. His collaborations with brands like Herman Miller and Shaw Contract have expanded the conversation around diversity, design, and social impact.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Michael Ford on LinkedIn

Follow Michael Ford on Instagram

Learn more about BrandNu Design Studio

📚 Design, and Social impact:

Learn more about Hip Hop Architecture Camp

Learn more about Michael’s collaboration with Herman Miller 

Learn more about the Michael’s role in Universal Hip Hop Museum 

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How can firms rethink leadership to create more equitable career paths?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore a new approach to leadership development in architecture with the team from FIFTEEN Architecture & Design. Firm founders and team members share how they’ve challenged traditional hierarchies by implementing a flexible, inclusive leadership model that prioritizes mentorship, career growth, and impact-driven design.

The conversation begins with Ximena Valle, AIA, LEED AP, founding principal of FIFTEEN, as she reflects on the motivation behind launching the firm. She discusses how traditional career structures often limit opportunities for growth, leading talented professionals to leave the industry. To combat this, FIFTEEN has developed a lattice-based leadership model that moves away from rigid hierarchies, creating space for emerging leaders to shape the future of the firm.

Sharrod Parker, AIA, and Ramune Bartuskaite, AIA share their experiences navigating alternative career paths within FIFTEEN, where team members are encouraged to pursue individual strengths and leadership opportunities beyond traditional job titles. Together, they explore how architects can redefine leadership, increase representation in decision-making, and cultivate a culture where everyone can thrive.

"Instead of a pyramid where everyone fights for one position at the top, we’ve created a lattice where every team member has the space to grow into leadership." – Ximena Valle

The episode concludes with insights on scaling this leadership model, the impact of mentorship, and advice for firms looking to create more equitable and dynamic workplaces.

Ximena Valle, AIA, LEED AP is the founding principal of FIFTEEN Architecture & Design. She started the firm with the vision of rethinking leadership, creating an inclusive practice, and using architecture as a tool for impact. With experience across large, mid-size, and small firms, she launched FIFTEEN to address the barriers preventing talented architects from advancing in traditional firms. She is passionate about mentorship, firm culture, and fostering new models of professional growth.

Ramune Bartuskaite, AIA, LEED GA, WELL AP is an Associate at FIFTEEN, where she leads marketing and communications in addition to practicing architecture. Passionate about advocacy, she has worked on initiatives to support women in the profession and previously co-edited a book focused on women in architecture. At FIFTEEN, she plays a key role in shaping the firm’s leadership culture and internal development.

Sharrod Parker, AIA is a registered architect and educator focused on innovative approaches to design and practice. At FIFTEEN, he works on refining project delivery processes, integrating technology, and fostering a more inclusive approach to professional development. A former student of Ximena’s, he brings a deep commitment to mentorship and leadership evolution in architecture.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Ximena Valle on LinkedIn

Connect with Ramune Bartuskaite on LinkedIn

Connect with Sharrod Parker on LinkedIn

Learn more about FIFTEEN Architecture & Design

FIFTEEN Lattice Model Sketch

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How does an architectural background shape a career in creative direction?

Architecture teaches more than just how to design buildings—it shapes the way we see, think, and create. In this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee sits down with Obiekwe "Obi" Okolo, a Nigerian-American photographer, multimedia artist, and creative director at Bittersweet Creative, to explore how his design education continues to influence his work in storytelling, strategy, and cultural advocacy.Together, they explore how an architectural background can open doors to unexpected and impactful career paths.

The conversation begins with Obi’s transition from architecture to creative direction, highlighting how his design education continues to shape his work. Evelyn and Obi discuss the intersection of architecture, storytelling, and strategy—how architects are trained to think at different scales and how that skill translates into creative industries. They also explore broader themes, including entrepreneurship, navigating alternative career paths, and the future of creative professions in the age of AI.

"I would never trade my architecture education for anything. But I would have really loved to know earlier all that it could have afforded me." – Obiekwe "Obi" Okolo

The episode wraps with reflections on redefining success, embracing nontraditional career moves, and advice for those considering their own transition beyond architecture.

Obiekwe "Obi" Okolo is a creative director, multimedia artist, and cultural strategist. Currently serving as the creative director at Bittersweet Creative, he leads projects that fuse storytelling, design, and social impact. His background in architecture informs his work in photography, documentary, and narrative-driven design. As the arts and culture editor for Bittersweet Monthly, Obi explores the power of visual storytelling to drive meaningful conversations. His career spans exhibitions, publications, and community-driven initiatives, all focused on the intersection of design, identity, and culture.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Obi on LinkedIn

Follow Obi on Instagram

Explore on Obi’s  Website

Explore on Tast Coffee's Website

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How can small architecture firms innovate for a sustainable future?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Carina Coel, Founder and Principal Architect of Restructure Studio, and Alexandra Chaves, Project Manager at the firm. Together, they share how their firm balances custom and pre-designed home offerings, embraces flexible work models, and fosters leadership in architecture.

We explore Carina’s journey in launching Restructure Studio, a firm recognized for sustainable residential design and workplace flexibility. To make sustainable design more accessible, she founded Arbor Plans, a platform offering pre-designed, high-efficiency home plans for homeowners and developers.

Next, we discuss Restructure Studio’s innovative firm structure, allowing architects to work part-time while maintaining high design standards. Alexandra shares her experience as the firm’s first full-time employee, her advocacy for mentorship, and her leadership in Women in Architecture Austin.

Carina and Alexandra also reflect on balancing work, family, and leadership, emphasizing mentorship, inclusivity, and alternative business models for the future of architecture.

“We have to rethink how architecture firms support their teams—not just in design, but in how we structure our workplaces.” – Carina Coel

Guests:

Carina Coel is the Founder and Principal Architect of Restructure Studio, an Austin-based firm specializing in sustainable residential architecture. She is also the creator of Arbor Plans, an initiative aimed at making sustainable home design more accessible. Carina is a dedicated advocate for workplace flexibility and an active leader in AIA Austin’s JEDI Committee.

Alexandra Chaves is a Project Manager at Restructure Studio and Chair of Women in Architecture Austin. With experience in residential architecture and a passion for mentorship, Alexandra is committed to supporting women in the profession and expanding access to sustainable design solutions.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Carina Coel on LinkedIn

Connect with Alexandra Chaves on LinkedIn

Learn more about Restructure Studio

Explore Arbor Plans

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Reflections on podcasting, leadership, and the future of the profession.

Season 10 of Practice Disrupted begins with a twist as host Evelyn Lee shares the microphone with special guest Michele Grace Hottel, architect, advocate, and host of I’ve Never Met a Woman Architect Before. Together, they reflect on the growth of their podcasts, the evolving profession, and the personal stories that shaped their careers.

In this candid discussion, Evelyn and Michele discuss their respective journeys into podcasting, highlighting key lessons learned from over 200 interviews and the inspiration behind their shows. The conversation dives into pivotal career decisions, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the shifts happening in architecture due to technology and generational change.

“We have to rethink architecture—not just the design process but the way we build our careers and support each other.” – Evelyn Lee

This episode also explores pressing topics, such as how architects can redefine their roles in a changing industry and the importance of mentorship, flexibility, and work-life balance in achieving long-term success.

Guest:

Michele Grace Hottel is an architect, advocate, and the host of I’ve Never Met a Woman Architect Before, a podcast celebrating diverse voices in architecture. With decades of experience, Michele has dedicated her career to advancing attainable housing, leadership in design, and equity within the profession.

📍 Show Links:

• Connect with Michele Grace Hottel on LinkedIn
• Listen to I’ve Never Met a Woman Architect Before
• Follow Michele’s work 

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How do you rethink a career in architecture to get unstuck?

Guest:

Laura Weiss Founder at Design Diplomacy

As a professional coach, facilitator, mediator, and consultant, Laura Weiss helps creative leaders engage in powerful conversations that drive change.

A former licensed architect, Laura spent a decade with the global design firm IDEO as a Practice Director and Associate Partner. An expert in service design, she subsequently assumed leadership roles inside a variety of enterprises seeking to build their own capacity for innovation. Today she leads her own practice Design Diplomacy LLC and is an Adjunct Professor at the California College of the Arts.

Laura holds a B.Arch. with honors from Cornell University, an M.Arch. from Yale University, and an MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management. A lifelong learner, Laura has also earned a Professional Certificate in Mediation and Applied Conflict Studies from Champlain College in Burlington, VT, her CPCC (Certified Professional Co-Active Coach) credential through the Coactive Training Institute and is an ACC (Associate Certified Coach) with The International Coach Federation.

How do you rethink a career in architecture to get unstuck?

Guest:

Laura Weiss Founder at Design Diplomacy

As a professional coach, facilitator, mediator, and consultant, Laura Weiss helps creative leaders engage in powerful conversations that drive change.

A former licensed architect, Laura spent a decade with the global design firm IDEO as a Practice Director and Associate Partner. An expert in service design, she subsequently assumed leadership roles inside a variety of enterprises seeking to build their own capacity for innovation. Today she leads her own practice Design Diplomacy LLC and is an Adjunct Professor at the California College of the Arts.

Laura holds a B.Arch. with honors from Cornell University, an M.Arch. from Yale University, and an MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management. A lifelong learner, Laura has also earned a Professional Certificate in Mediation and Applied Conflict Studies from Champlain College in Burlington, VT, her CPCC (Certified Professional Co-Active Coach) credential through the Coactive Training Institute and is an ACC (Associate Certified Coach) with The International Coach Federation.

📍 Show Links:  

Evelyn Lee’s Linkedin

Je'Nen Chastain Linkedin

https://lauraweiss.net/

Create Your Own Path Forward - and Perhaps Away from Architecture (Architect Magazine)

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