I Am AIA:

Marisa Hagney Assoc. AIA

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Marisa graduated with her B.S. in Architectural Studies from Washington State University. Project management and big-picture thinking while working in the Facilities + Engineering Department at EMP Museum contribute to Marisa's enthusiasm to be a part of the Living Building Challenge Team at the International Living Future Institute. Co-chairing the AIA Urban Design Forum keeps Marisa enlightened by its members and at the forefront of Seattle current design events and trends.

Why did you join AIA Seattle?

I joined AIA Seattle because I continued to meet members that gave back to me and I wanted to do the same. The leadership opportunities are unbelievable if you simply attend an event!

What is the value of AIA to you?

The value of AIA to me is a network of leading design practitioners who want to continue to make a difference in the field.

How do you want AIA Seattle to impact our city?

AIA Seattle should be our city’s guide and #1 champion for a healthy current and future built environment.

What interested you about being on the AIA Seattle Board of Directors?

I am most intrigued by the opportunity to get all people, including new disciplines, as well as the minority and younger demographic, involved in the conversation around the built environment. Economic, social and environmental sustainability should be at the forefront of what we talk about each and every day.

What project are you working on now?

I am currently involved in education creation, team support for projects pursuing the Living Building Challenge, as well as an exploration of affordable multi-family housing seeking net positive energy and water. A deep dive into the curriculum development for the International WELL Building Standard v1.0 was my recent cup of tea!

How do you explain what you do for a living?

What I do for a living: support others to design with empathy.

What inspired you today?

I am continually inspired by nature and children. The world in its natural state and how the planet’s little geniuses behave with it should continually be our guide.

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

Absolutely, if you were to tell me that I would NOT be working at an architecture firm 5 years out of school, I wouldn’t believe you. I am happy with the new direction with the help of a few mentors and I hope others find their degrees can take them down new avenues!

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

Our field is always changing and we have to find a middle-ground between being able to predict change and being reactive to change.

Can design save the world?

Yes. I think it’s well on its way. I believe strongly that design is a selfless act. If we do it for ourselves only then we forget about 6,999,999,999 of the human population, as well as the entire non-human kingdoms.

What do you hope to contribute from your work?

I hope to challenge people to see their work in a different way, in knowing that every single brick (or decision) is a catalyst for change.

What is your favorite Seattle-area structure?

If the EMP Museum form was the Bullitt Center in practice then my work here is done. In reality though, I really love the Burke-Gilman trail and its ability to connect places, people and amazing viewpoints. I can’t wait to see it extend farther west to Golden Gardens.