I Am AIA:

Heidi Helgeson AIA

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After receiving her Master of Architecture degree from the University of Washington, Heidi Helgeson worked at a variety of architecture firms gaining experience on a wide variety of project types and styles from single family and multi-family residences to museums, libraries, and churches. Heidi founded H2D architecture + design in 2005. In addition to working at H2D, Heidi is an artist and athlete – enjoying time spent painting and sketching as well as participating in triathlons and running events.

WHY DID YOU JOIN AIA SEATTLE?

I joined AIA Seattle in order to stay current with the industry as it is an ever-changing field. As a small firm, we feel being involved with AIA Seattle allows us stay connected with other architecture professionals, current policy changes, industry standard updates, and general continuing education events.

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF AIA TO YOU?

We feel that AIA provides the most value with staying current with the industry. We utilize AIA primarily to keep up with the latest trends and policies in the industry, as well as continuing education for our employees.

WHAT RELATIONSHIPS HAVE YOU CREATED?

I have created relationships with other professionals through small groups and networking opportunities through AIA. Many of the relationships began many years ago when I started my firm and continue on today.

HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN WHAT YOU DO FOR A LIVING?

While in college, I began my studies in studio art and design. As I worked through various mediums, I realized that I was interested in creating functional art. I explored the idea of functional art and my path moved towards architecture. As an architect, you are an artist creating unique spaces for clients, keeping in mind that the space much be functional, but also unique and interesting. My firm currently focuses primarily on custom residential architecture and interior design, but also works on various small commercial spaces as well.

WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?

Our firm is always working on new projects from interior remodels to new custom homes. I am finding that many of our current clients are interested in creating hidden spaces in their homes. Examples of the hidden spaces are designing a bookshelf door to access hidden space, designing a flush panel system that can be moved aside to open a concealed room, pantry hidden inside a regular cabinet door, and other unique ways to create and access hidden spaces.

WHERE IS THE FIELD OF ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, OR CONSTRUCTION HEADED?

I hope that the field of architecture is heading towards pursuing sustainability in construction. I feel that is really at the forefront of where the building codes and building methods should be continuing to push.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO CONTRIBUTE FROM YOUR WORK?

At our firm, we try to pursue sustainable goals for each of our projects. We are also exploring new materials and methods as new technologies are developed to try to be as current as possible as we pursue sustainability in our designs.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TODAY?

I enjoy paying attention to small details in my day-to-day activities. Often, I find inspiration while out on a run or a bike ride where I’m taking in the surroundings at a much slower pace than in a car. I find that I see more details in architecture and in nature while I’m out exercising.

CAN DESIGN SAVE THE WORLD?

I’m not convinced that design can save the world, but thoughtful, environmentally friendly design can certainly contribute to sustaining our current state of affairs.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEATTLE-AREA STRUCTURE?

My favorite Seattle-area structure is the Amazon Spheres.

IF YOU COULD SUM UP YOUR OUTLOOK ON LIFE IN A BUMPER STICKER, WHAT WOULD IT SAY?

Sophisticated, inspired design.