I Am AIA:

Burcin Moehring FAIA

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Burcin Moehring FAIA has dedicated her career to thoughtfully planning and designing science environments; and redefining standards, best practices, and providing leadership to benefit the architecture profession. Throughout her 29 years of experience in project management, teaching lab planning, and programming for educational and research facilities, and in leadership positions with AIA-CAE, SCUP and I2SL, she has developed unique lab design solutions that address evolving teaching styles as well as the integration of the technology and flexibility needed for today’s changing learning environments.

Why did you join AIA Seattle?

I am committed to advancing the AIA’s goal of repositioning the Institute as a visionary membership organization focused on serving members and elevating the public awareness of the importance of architecture.

Recognizing the need for additional educational opportunities, I worked with Rebecca Barnes FAIA at UW and Eric Aman of Schacht Aslani Architects to develop AIA Seattle’s Committee on Architecture for Education (CAE) and serve as its Co-Chair since January 2016. Under our leadership, the committee has served AIA members by organizing compelling presentations about new education technologies, methods, and ideas, as well as lessons learned in the planning and design of learning environments.

What is the value of AIA to you?

As a strong supporter of the AIA and the work performed within, I have become one of the strongest advocates through involvement with ArchiPACH, attending AIA Seattle’s Capital Connections in 2018 and 2019, as well as AIA Illinois’ Prairie Grassroots to lobby regulations and bills. I believe in making a point to stay abreast of issues that could potentially affect the architecture profession. I am also a passionate proponent for sustainability and, through the AIA Seattle’s extensive sustainability initiatives/supports, we promote the design, construction, and operation of resource-effective and environmentally responsible facilities dedicated to education, medicine, and research.

What relationships have you created?

In addition to my work with AIA, I currently serve as the President of I2SL (International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories). I host and help plan educational sessions that exhibit best practices while engaging in meaningful dialogue with other Science and Technology industry professionals. As one of the Founding Board Members, I gain great satisfaction from fostering board member collaboration, as well as creating events that allow professionals from various disciplines to draw upon each other’s experiences. My involvement in these organizations has allowed me to build strong connections with other architects, owners/clients, engineers, construction professionals, higher education professionals, and professionals within the design and construction community.

How do you explain what you do for a living?

I collaborate with the stakeholders at campuses to understand their unique culture and work with the design teams to translate their needs into the architectural solutions.

I am passionate about working together with clients and am a strong advocate for the users. Together with my team, I combine functionality and aesthetics to create stimulating environments for growing STEM programs that integrate science and engineering disciplines, increase flexibility for ever-changing programs, and raise the efficiency of resource use.

What inspired you today?

Bill Gates’ extensive participation and contribution in medical research.

Has your career taken you anywhere you didn’t expect?

Yes, I started out as a traditional Project Architect/Manager and now I wear “different hats” in the design and construction industry.

Where is the field of architecture, engineering or construction headed?

Technology continues to evolve and affect the industry greatly. New delivery models such as the Design Build method has changed how the architects are selected and how the design solutions are arrived.