The firm鈥檚 new director of facades on challenging convention, the importance of accountability, her work on the Serpentine pavilions and making the most of long days
Why did you choose construction as a career?
I have always been drawn to solving complex challenges, especially at the intersection of design, engineering and materials. Architectural engineering, particularly facades, offered the perfect blend of creativity and technical problem-solving. I enjoy collaborating across disciplines and challenging the norm to create something meaningful and enduring.
What are you most proud of in your career to date?
Leading the creative technical design for the Serpentine pavilions from 2016 to 2021 was a dream that I am proud to have made happen. It was an incredible opportunity to collaborate with visionary architects and technical experts to bring the theatrical intrigue of contemporary architecture, at human scale, to hundreds of thousands of visitors to Kensington Gardens each year.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career to date?
I have never been one to fit the norm: an American in London, a woman in construction. Perhaps it has been about carving my own path in spaces that were not always designed for me. The biggest challenge has been navigating those spaces, proving my value and pushing boundaries while staying true to who I am.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
Shifting the reluctance to take bold, accountable decisions. Too often, risk aversion and uncertainty hold back progress.
What is the most helpful advice that you have been given?
WIN 鈥� What鈥檚 Important Now
Name your favourite building in the world?
I have so many! I am increasingly interested in architecture and design that supports wellbeing, so I鈥檒l go with the Thermal Baths in Vals by Peter Zumthor. It鈥檚 a masterclass in materiality, atmosphere and craftsmanship.
Which famous building do you most dislike?
Who am I to criticise?
Which famous building do you wish you had worked on?
Centre Pompidou in Paris. It was such a radical statement for its time, challenging conventions and redefining what architecture could be. And true collaboration (and celebration) of architecture and engineering.
What single piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your profession?
Don鈥檛 ask, do. Dive in, take action 鈥� and learn through experience.
Who do you most admire in the construction industry?
Francis K茅r茅 [the first African to win the Pritzker Prize]. His work combines deep respect for craftsmanship with innovative design and social impact. And he is an absolutely lovely person.
What is it like being you (and doing your job)?
It鈥檚 about finding logic in complexity, listening, observing and solving problems. I work across technical, creative and business aspects, so no two days are the same. It is rewarding, but also requires constant adaptability. And a lot of hustle.
Do you have a life philosophy?
Stay humble. And keep moving forward.
What do you think your best quality is?
Transparency. I believe in being honest, direct and clear in how I work with people.
What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?
In myself: overthinking. In others: a lack of accountability.
Name three things that you like
Running, cycling and swimming.
Tell us about a secret skill that we don鈥檛 know you have
I am a qualified yoga teacher and have been practising and teaching for over 20 years.
What is your most prized possession?
My resilience.
Early bird or night owl?
Both. Early morning training sessions and late night working through ideas and challenges.
What is your favourite food?
Anything colourful and fresh.
What would your superpower be?
Temporal stasis (freezing time).
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