July 5 is Women in Architecture Day. To celebrate, we asked a few of our members to share their stories and some words of wisdom regarding the profession of architecture – from the best advice they have ever received to what inspires their design philosophy. Here’s what they had to say:
“Some of the best advice I ever received was from my parents – they told me to “lead by example.” I ensure that my passion, persistence and creativity is part of everything I do. Advice I would give to others is: “If your work helps make the world a better place, then it is worthy.” To me, one of the keys to success in the profession of architecture is a strong sense of responsibility to the public. It is about the drive to give back, improve our surroundings and leave the world a better place than how we found it.”
Danica Djurkovic Architect AIBC LEED AP
Director of Facilities Planning at the City of Vancouver
Registered as an Architect AIBC since 2006
“What is the best advice I ever received? To manage expectations. I found this advice quite useful in our profession; it applies to the schedule, the design, the budget, and so forth. Don’t oversell, be realistic, and be true. It will pay off. You clients will appreciate it and you’ll avoid unwanted situations.”Sylvie Gagnon Architect AIBC
Associate at Kirsten Reite Architecture
Registered as an Architect AIBC since 2006
“The best advice I ever received was that even if you’re just starting out – think carefully about the kind of commissions that you take on because they’ll follow you throughout your career. To this day, I’m extremely proud of my contribution on work that has had a positive social impact and cringe at the projects which just paid the bills.”Marguerite Laquinte Francis Architect AIBC MRAIC LEED AP
Principal of MLF Event Architecture
Registered as an Architect AIBC since 2007
“People, process, place and commitment to holistic sustainable design are fundamental in my design approach. To me, a building is landscape architecturally structured, integrated within its context and developed around human experience. My particular interest is in interdisciplinary exchanges between architecture and landscape architecture; their integration of form, structure, experience and thought in the ever-changing context of environmental design. This journey of discovery includes extensive spatial research and experimentation, as well as constant questioning and never being satisfied with the obvious answer.”
Sara Kasaei Architect AIBC LEED AP
Architect AIBC at James K.M. Cheng Architects
Registered as an Architect AIBC since 2017
Architects are leaders in shaping our built environment. We are seeing an increase in the proportion of women as registered architects, leading to more balanced gender representation in the profession. Currently, 19 per cent of architects registered with the AIBC are women – an 8 per cent increase over the last five years. An even larger increase can be found in the under 40 category, with women representing 38 per cent.
Thank you to our members who shared their stories in celebration of Women in Architecture Day. A vibrant, inclusive, active and engaged membership is beneficial to everyone.