This article originally appeared on ArchDaily. by Karissa Rosenfield
Architects’ Journal has released the shortlist of their annual Women in Architecture awards, naming 17 established and emerging practitioners who have raised the profile of women architects “in a sector where women still face an alarming degree of discrimination.” In honor of their selection, the nominees have shared their advice for aspiring female architects.
Woman Architect of the Year 2015 Shortlist:
Joanna Bacon Partner, Allies and Morrison
"Listen to the needs of your clients and your team. Be ambitious and tenacious. Look for great support at home and inspire a good team at work, while recognizing every day how lucky we are to be involved with such a fascinating and effective profession."
Teresa Borsuk Partner, Pollard Thomas Edwards
"Believe in yourself. If you have a career break, come back with your foot hard on the pedal."
Rachel Haugh Partner, Simpson Haugh and Partners
“Passion, commitment, vision, self-belief, optimism and tenacity are necessary traits. If you have them, go for it!”
Gonca Pasolar Partner, Emre Arolat Architects
“Be clear about your main goal in life. Architecture needs commitment, passion, endless strength, renewal and patience.”
Carme Pinos Founder, Estudio Carme Pinos
“Be clear about what you want and have the courage to achieve it.”
Cristina Segni Partner, Foster + Partners
“Have fun and surround yourself with people you trust and enjoy working with.”
Clare Wright Partner, Wright & Wright
“Many women find it difficult to manage the balance between being obliging and promoting self-interest. Be as straightforward about things as you can.”
Emerging Women Architect of the Year 2015 Shortlist:
Laura Highton Architect, Purcell
“Have confidence, be yourself and go for it!”
Jillian Jones Team leader, DRDH Architects
“Find a practice where you feel supported and inspired and don’t accept being underestimated or bullied. Don’t sacrifice everything for the architectural cause.”
Sally Lewis Founding director, Stitch
“Try not to be compartmentalized into a design silo too soon.”
Katy Marks Director, Citizen Design Bureau
“Only do it if you love it. Appreciate the support of family, friends and colleagues.”
Marta Pelegrin Co-director, Mediamundo Arcquitectos
“Keep dreaming and be tenacious to achieve your goals.”
Chloe Phelps Deputy team leader, placemaking team, Croydon Council
“Get as much experience as possible, work smart, keep positive and enjoy it!”
“Be passionate and prepared to persevere. Find a mentor. If you don’t know something, don’t be afraid to ask.”
Betsy Williamson founding partner, Williamson Chong Architects
“Be optimistic and engaged and learn everything you can about construction.”
A 14-strong jury, which will include Norman Foster, Patty Hopkins and 2013 Jane Drew Prize winner Eva Jiricna, will review the shortlist. Winners will be announced at the annual AJ Women in Architecture Luncheon on February 27 at Claridge’s in London, where Phyllis Lambert and Sheila O’Donnell will speak. The winners of the Ada Huxtable Prize and the Jane Drew Prize will also be celebrated at the event.
News via AJ. Learn more about the awards, here.
AJ’s Shortlisted Women Architects of the Year Share Advice for Aspiring Females originally appeared on ArchDaily, the most visited architecture website in January, 2015.
Related
Before You Go
