25
Feb
2019

Architecture is not a simple process. There are many things that come into play through design development on numerous different levels. What is this design going to look like? How is this building going to function? What is the budget? Is this idea even possible? But don’t let that scare you away. Architecture has some great qualities as well. There is the feeling of satisfaction in coming out on top of a big design complication and the learning aspect that never seems to end. Architecture also gives the great opportunity to create functional art and create cultural landmarks. These are some reasons why I decided to pursue architecture as a career.

It all started when I was 12 years old on a family trip to Georgia. During this trip there was a small housing community being built near a family members house. One night we took advantage of the off-hours and went to see what was evolving down the street. As I walked around this bare house with wood studded walls and plywood planked flooring, I found myself in somewhat of a trance. I was caught up in wonder going room to room and trying to think how the spaces would affect someone. What would it be like to spend most of my time within those walls and how would it impact me? What memories would be made? Where would they put the Christmas tree during the holidays? I like to believe that that moment sparked my desire to pursue architecture. See I am a positive & empathetic person and if I can impact people’s lives with how they use, feel, and relate to another within a space, I want to be a part of that.

Since my freshman year in college I have learned and developed skills in leaps and bounds. When I began my education, it was all very new to me. I had done some drawing classes in school, but now I was learning the science and technology of architecture and it was very enlightening. There were also times of struggles and frustration when computer programs rebelled, and I never seemed to have enough time to prepare for presentations (perfectionist in training). But I came out on top of all the design & education complications to get a job in my chosen field.

I continue to use my skills in the professional realm as I work here at NKB and continue to learn through my process to become a licensed architect. The process of licensure is no easy task. I remember seeing the ARE as a daunting mountain that was impossible. I mean what happened if I didn’t have all the answers? What if I couldn’t fix the problem? What if no one liked my work? But I have worked through my fears and have put one foot in front of the other to track up the mountain. It has been a journey so far and it will continue to be an adventurous one. But hopefully you’re in for the ride because I will be taking you with me. So, strap on those boots, we have a lot of ground to cover!

Brittany Varengo is a Senior Designer at NKB! Join Brittany as she chronicles her journey through the ARE process in a blog series!