I Am AIA:

Kirsten Murray FAIA

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Kirsten Murray is an owner and principal of Olson Kundig, where she has practiced since 1989. In her work on urban design, adaptive re-use, cultural, mixed-use and residential projects, Kirsten is known for creating buildings and spaces that strengthen and enrich communities. In addition to her project leadership, Kirsten has pioneered many of the firm’s core cultural practices including Olson Kundig’s international internship program, integrated studio organization, community engagement programs, as well as co-directing [storefront], an experimental design space where the firm hosted a series of community-based projects.

Why did you join AIA Seattle?

I joined AIA Seattle to engage in a larger dialogue around design and take part in conversations that I might not be exposed to in my own firm practice.

What project are you working on now?

Simon Fraser University Mixed-Use, Burnaby, BC
Knack Collective co-working space, Seattle, WA
Plains Art Museum master planning, Fargo, ND

Can design save the world?

Design has the power to strengthen and enrich communities. I’ve always believed that people are happier and more productive, and communities are more engaged and connected, in well-designed spaces. I hope to create transformative experiences, buildings, and spaces that enhance the everyday lives of those who live and work within.

What do you hope to contribute from your work?

One of the things I love about Olson Kundig is our involvement with the arts and education. We often collaborate with and sponsor organizations that are doing important work in the community. We strive to be good citizens, both locally in the design community and beyond, making robust contributions to learning and to the wider profession, and always striving to do work that is inclusive.

What is your favorite Seattle-area structure?

St. Mark’s Cathedral in Capitol Hill. I appreciate the layers of history visible in this project. It is a story of aspiration and ongoing evolution—a building that has continued to progress alongside its users.