February Professional Member of the Month

Brad Paige

SVPA Architects

Architect

1. Our profession is built on the value of relationships and opportunities; how do you prepare for a meeting with a new client?
   I think it is really important to establish a good personal relationship with a client. I would consider myself to be a rather shy and introverted individual so this doesn’t come as naturally for me as it does to others, but if you can show a client how passionate you are about the project (and the profession in general), the client gets really excited too and the process becomes a lot more fun.

2. We often design to improve the health of people and the environment; how do you wind down in the evenings to maintain a balanced lifestyle?
   I didn’t play much in college but since graduating, I have started getting more involved in volleyball around the Des Moines metro. It has been a great way for me to meet new people as well as network with other professionals in the area.

3. In 2017 technology is at our fingertips - what is your favorite app and/or website?
   I really enjoy readying ‘The Family Handyman’. I purchased a house this past year and it has been incredibly helpful in learning repair and maintenance work.

4. As professionals we are versed in community interaction and collaboration; what are you involved in outside the realm of architecture/design?
   I’ve been a mentor at ACE for about a year and a half now. It is an after school program for high school students and helps them get a better understanding of the architecture, construction, and engineering disciplines. I also volunteer at the Iowa Architecture Foundation. I really enjoy learning more about Des Moines as well as getting to share my knowledge and passion for architecture with other people.

5. We are Iowa Women in Architecture; who were the female role models that inspired you?
   I’ve worked with a lot of talented female designers since I’ve joined the profession. I had an amazing materials and assemblies instructor, Kris Nelson, while I was in school who had a very strong passion and enthusiasm for teaching. I’ve always been interested in understanding how things go together and it was very inspiring to see someone else share a similar for building assemblies.
   I joined IAWIA mostly to help students in their transition out of school. Personally, it was a bit of a shock for me so anything I can do to help direct students in the right direction and ease the transition is a very positive and rewarding experience for me. This is also a passion I enjoy sharing with my students at ACE.