I Am AIA:

Carrie Anderson AIA

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Carrie has sixteen years of experience in custom residential architecture in the Puget Sound region. She received her bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee in 2002 and graduate degree from University of Washington in 2006. She has been a passionate advocate for sustainability as an active member of the Northwest EcoBuilding Guild and International Living Future Institute. Carrie has presented at the Northwest Green Building Slam & Summit as well as the Northwest Green Home Tour. Her work has been featured in the New York Times, Seattle Times, Luxe Magazine and other publications.

Why did you join AIA Seattle?

About a year and a half ago I became involved in the Small Practice and Residential Committee (SPARC). The community I found there has been a source of education, mentorship and inspiration for me ever since. Membership in AIA Seattle became the next step in demonstrating my commitment to that group and the larger initiatives the AIA seeks to implement.

What is the value of AIA to you?

To me, the AIA embodies the opportunity for community and collaboration with other professionals specializing and practicing different aspects of our broad and varied profession. The AIA brings us all together to share our unique expertise and strengths with each other in order to enlighten each other and improve the entire practice of architecture in our city.

How do you explain what you do for a living?

When I tell people I’m an architect many assume I’m good at math and drawing. While it’s true much of the job has to do with the measurement, design and detailing of our buildings, I also tell people architecture is a broad profession requiring organization, teamwork and constant learning. The practice of architecture is inextricably linked with engineers, consultants and contractors who help us execute our designs. The coordination of and collaboration with those individuals is one of my favorite aspects of the profession as I continually learn from their expertise.