Celebrating National Architecture Week

Michael: Being an architect, to me, is a blend of creative expression, technical problem solving, and a responsibility to positively shape human experience. Over time, my perspective has evolved from the excitement of designing individual solutions to a deeper appreciation for the lasting impact architecture has on people, systems, and communities. Today, I see the role as one of stewardship—balancing innovation with sustainability and ensuring our designs deliver meaningful, long-term value.

Alexis: Architecture is looking at the world with a different lens. A combination of art, math, and science coming together to shape how people experience space. My great-grandfather was an architect and I love that I get to follow in his footsteps.

Sanjay: Design has the ability to profoundly touch people and impact lives in deeply personal ways. Over time, the methodology and tools may evolve, but the fundamental core values remain the same, rooted in creating spaces that serve people and support the way communities live and connect.

Heather: When I started my career, I wanted to be an Architect to design super cool buildings that belonged in magazines. I wanted to reinvent the ideas behind modern architecture and bring back characteristics that made ancient Roman buildings so beautiful. Now, I’m thinking less about what I can design and more about how people are using the spaces we create. I have found, more and more, that great architects can design spaces that non-designers can still appreciate. Any building that the end user thinks its beautiful, functional, will last more than 15 years, and offers the opportunity for growth is a great building.

Tyler: Being an architect means more than designing buildings. It is about shaping human experience. In the end, architecture isn’t just what people see, it’s what they remember. I have learned that experience can be created at any scale, from a modest 1,000-square-foot apartment unit or a 120,000-square-foot recreational facility.

Zach: Being an architect to me is about providing the best service to our clients and the positively impacting the communities our designs are located. My passion for architecture has evolved throughout the years from a more technical, detail-oriented pursuit to a more holistic, project impact pursuit. As I’ve progressed in my career, it’s become more about others around me and not so much myself-about how I can help, lead and teach others.

Michael: Design is everywhere, take a moment to experience the environment around you: the way light filters through space, how materials age, and how people instinctively interact with their surroundings. I draw inspiration from observing these moments, where architecture subtly shapes experience without calling attention to itself. Today, creativity comes from listening to place, purpose, and performance, and finding harmony between function, innovation, and the human experience.

Alexis: My creativity is rooted in sketching and painting, where ideas start organically and evolve through exploration, and I’m constantly inspired by travel and the chance to experience different cultures and architectural styles. I also draw inspiration from the everyday—observing the buildings around me and how people move through and interact with those spaces. At the heart of my design approach is a focus on the end user, always thinking about how thoughtful, intentional architecture can enhance experiences and make people’s lives better through the built environment.

Sanjay: Look to nature, squint and take in a different perspective, inspiration is all around you.

Heather: I love solving problems, so my creativity is not always at its best with a blank canvas. I enjoy hearing what the client wants to see, understanding what the contractor believes is feasible, and learning how the end user wants to interact with a space. Bringing those viewpoints together and creating something everyone can agree on is where the design process really comes to life for me.

Tyler: Being around creative people and problem solvers is always inspiring, but I find my strongest design inspiration comes from the places and cities I visit. Experiencing different environments and how people interact with spaces firsthand helps shape my perspective and often sparks ideas that I can bring back into my own work.

Zach: Design inspiration can come from anywhere at any time. I could see a unique form or pattern, or hear a unique phrase it may spark a bit of inspiration. I also enjoy viewing nature, cities, and structures from across the world for unique perspectives on how to design. Literature also impacts how I think and how I address architectural design and leadership.”

Michael: One of my favorite projects was the Newfields (formerly IMA) Gallery Addition and Renovation. This project accelerated my growth early in my career by exposing me to complex design and constructability challenges. Notable elements included the oval entry with curved, point‑supported glazing that required careful accommodation of movement, exterior louvers weighted with sand to prevent uplift, and a large skylight spanning an expansion joint between old and new structures, being pinned on one side while cantilevering over the other. Each of these conditions demanded close coordination and creative problem‑solving, making the project both challenging and deeply rewarding.

Alexis: One of the most meaningful milestones in my career was selecting all the exterior materials for the Lebanon Fire Station—my first project where I had the opportunity to fully shape the look and feel of the building. Being part of those design decisions and seeing them come to life has been incredibly rewarding. With construction now underway, I’m excited to watch the vision take shape and can’t wait to see the finished project serve the community for years to come.

Sanjay: Battle Simulation Center – Camp Atterbury. With no comparable precedents nationwide, the project relied on strong collaboration to innovate, plan, and design future‑focused indoor and outdoor infrastructure for physical and digital war game simulations. The process pushed me creatively and professionally, bringing out the qualities that define why I became an architect.

Heather: My favorite project would have to be one of our clubhouses created for Pulte Homes. First and foremost, Pulte is a fantastic client to work with. They prioritize their residents and the amenities, the projects are high design, and they offer something fun for everyone to design and use.

Tyler: The Linc Apartments because it was my first opportunity to take full responsibility for a large-scale mixed-use development. Leading the project from beginning to end challenged me to think strategically, solve complex issues in real time, and the lessons I gained through that experience were truly invaluable.

Zach: The Kokomo Bus Maintenance Facility; I’ve grown close with the City of Kokomo team and have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside them to help develop a facility that meets their current and future needs. I’ve learned a great deal throughout the project, not just technically, but also professionally, especially with budgetary negotiations, contracting and project team management. I’m very thankful for the opportunity to have worked with the City of Kokomo and our project design team.”

Michael: Aspiring architects should begin building their network early by getting involved in organizations like AIA and seeking mentors who can help bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. The connections formed early in a career often pay dividends over time. It’s equally important to cultivate passion, embrace collaboration, and develop strong communication skills with clients and team members. Gaining internship experience early, mastering design tools, and building a strong professional portfolio—while developing both creative thinking and a solid understanding of building materials and constructability—lays a strong foundation for long-term success.

Alexis: Be hungry to learn new things and find ways to stay creative throughout your entire career. Always remember why you are personally passionate about architecture, because that motivation will help guide you through long projects and busy seasons. Be patient with yourself, as it takes time and dedication to learn how to be an architect. The learning process never truly ends, and each day presents new challenges, lessons, and opportunities to grow.

Sanjay: Architecture is a long game, one that rewards patience, perseverance, and curiosity. Relish the challenges that come with everyday tasks, because each one contributes to growth and understanding over time. Stay present in the process and revel in the journey, knowing that progress is built gradually and every experience helps shape you as a better architect.

Heather: Find your why. I love doing what I do to create buildings and spaces that will help people. I love to feel like I am contributing positively to society by creating a detention center that provides operational efficiencies for the staff, but also gives the users a chance to rehabilitate. There is a psychology to design that, when done well, can really impact a community.

Tyler: Get out from behind the computer and travel! The world offers countless examples of the built environment that can challenge your perspective and spark new ideas, bolstering your creativity far more deeply than any online program or news article ever could.

Zach: Keep an open mind and a humble heart; they will serve you throughout your career and life. Architecture can be a lifelong learning process and those who remain curious, receptive to critique, and respectful of collaboration find lasting success in both design and practice.