Our optimistic design philosophy centers on the essential edict that people matter. Purely pragmatic and engineered solutions for the built environment ignore humanity and place. We prioritize moving beyond preconceived solutions to craft unique responses which inspire, are wholly appropriate, and are specific to each place. This approach is rooted in embracing the colorful, complicated kaleidoscope of histories and cultures to create dynamic and enriching spaces for each community we work with, regardless of means, cultural backgrounds, or initial expectations. The resulting work is unique, authentic, and a direct result of the communities we serve. The stories our designs tell are the synthesis of each community’s triumphs, challenges, histories, and hopes. Through this process, we seek to elevate the voices of communities that have often been ignored and create Place Power.

In this discussion, we will frame the idea of Place Power as the guiding light for our practice and describe the “mechanisms” we employ to create it:

·       Access, Agency, + Opportunity

·       Embracing Authenticity and Fostering Community

·       Context and Specificity

·       Intentional Expression

These mechanisms are borne out of a rigorous process of engagement, research, and analysis. In listening, researching, and interpreting the various input and information received during the engagement, we create spaces that are intentionally expressive of the ambitions and ideals of the institution and community. The built environment matters—these structures last generations and tell the story of what society prioritizes. Therefore, we are not flippant about the formal gestures of the building; we are intentional and work with stakeholders to ensure the building conveys the message they want their community and the world to see.

We will explore these mechanisms through the lens of a varying range of project scales and typologies to demonstrate their utility and applicability.

Tickets and Locations:

We are offering this lecture in-person, and online.

• Knoxville: 
  • The Foundry 
    • 747 Worlds Fair Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37902
  • Purchase Knoxville Tickets, or an online ticket- CLICK HERE
• Johnson City: 
  • Food City
    • 920 North State of Franklin Rd, Johnson City, TN
  • Purchase Johnson City Tickets, or an online ticket- CLICK HERE