appropriate for humans to traverse and I think we
can do a better job. So, whether or not I move
there I would simply look at them continuously as
a precedent. I definitely look up to the architects
in the Netherlands. They have a way of creating a
harmony between radical and productive, finding
that careful balance is incredible.
M.D.M.: Have you faced any challenges being a
woman in this industry?
A.R.: Of course, I think in today’s society
especially in Western culture, there’s a lot of
adversity being a woman in general. Especially
outside of the “feminine fields.” Even when I was
applying to go into architecture, I was
encouraged to go into something like engineering
or math, because architecture wasn’t that
productive or revered highly. That was more of
the skills I was going into. In regards to being a
woman, I think there’s an inherent and
unfortunately accepted stereotype that we aren’t
as strong, diligent, and can’t get things done.
I think that’s honestly been a driving force for me,
to prove that stereotype wrong. I want to prove
culture and anybody who challenges me wrong,
and that has made me an incredibly strong and
determined individual. Everything I do, I work
incredibly strongly and I always try to push myself
beyond what I believe I can do.
To be honest, I’m grateful for that handicap
because I think without that, I wouldn’t have
pushed myself as much. I actually was
recognized for my dedication to advancing
women with regards to architecture, by just
encouraging my fellow women to push
themselves. I was one of the scholars of the
Carnegie Mellon Women’s Association my senior
year.
M.D.M.: It’s always nice when you can find a
group or association for women.
A.R.: Yeah, but because of my research in
gender and architecture, I’ve learned that it’s not
productive to single out women. In my alternate
reality that I tend to think about, I don’t think it’s
productive to try to only highlight women now,
because if we solely seek out women, and try
38 | Masonry Design
and show that everything previous to today has
been incorrect. Then one day we may have the
inverse situation we have today.
Where obviously today, the stereotypical
individual is an old white man, and I don’t want
there to be any stereotypical individuals. So, I
don’t like to segregate, or judge, or look at
anything based on gender, race, religion, etc. I
like to look at people with their own interests and
goals and whatever they make. I’m a maker, so I
like to see what other people make and produce,
and that’s really more of what I judge.
Nevertheless, you can’t overlook the obstacles
people overcome. I am a woman, but I am a
white woman, so I recognize I don’t have as
many obstacles as many of my fellow peers. But
really recognizing that, and seeing where you
receive the privilege, and using it to help those
who are underprivileged is something I am
dedicated to doing. I encourage others around
me to do that as well.
M.D.M.: Have you had any internships in your
field?
A.R.: Yes, I’ve had a few. My first internship was
at Torti Gallas & Partners in downtown Los