September Professional Member of the Month
Sirina Reed
DLR Group
Architectural Designer
1. What is the most exciting and energizing aspect of your current position?
Right now, the most exciting aspect of my current position is learning all the details that go into a project. A lot of steps in creating an actual building are not taught in school and I think it’s exciting (and a bit overwhelming) to learn what the profession is all about.
2. What was the last interesting book you read?
The Architecture of Happiness by Alain de Botton. My favorite part of this book was reflecting on the idea that buildings can bring out specific aspects of our personalities. It speaks about how your surroundings and environments can tap into your psychological layers that may not be easy to access everywhere.
3. What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am very new to the professional world. Being a year and a half out of school I am proud of everything that I have learned thus far. I am also proud that I am a part of organizations outside of work, like iaWia, ACE Mentor, and NOMA. These organizations are important in bringing different perspectives and knowledge to designing that will also guide me throughout my professional career.
4. How do you define success? And measure it?
I define success in my career and designs simply by improving the way people live. I really believe that architecture and the built environment can influence people’s day to day lives. Success for me isn’t defined by awards, statistics, or data, but by how I can improve the environment and someone else’s life. Whether that’s sustainable design, creating aesthetically pleasing architecture, creating comfortable and exciting workplaces, or solving any problems that clients may have.
5. We are Iowa Women in Architecture; who were the female role models that inspired you?
My mother is my biggest female role model. She may not know anything about design or architecture, but she has always supported me and my dreams. Especially when I was 8 years old drawing home plans and elevations. She always told me to keep going and would come home with sketchbooks and pencils. She knew what my passion was and did not make me feel like I should do anything else. She taught me to be independent and strong in all aspects of life.