I AM AIA
Brad Khouri AIA
Principal and Founder of b9 architects, I am passionate about design excellence and service. My work focuses on the intersection of design innovation, policy, education, sustainability and real estate development. I lead b9 architects, inspiring a culture of collaboration and adaptability, empowering the team to take an active role in projects and the practice. I am an expert in infill urban housing, working for 25 years in the Seattle market.
I develop multifamily infill urban housing project and am an Affiliate Assistant Professor at the University of Washington, College of Built Environments and teach undergraduate and graduate Architectural Design studios.
Why Did You Join AIA Seattle? What is the value of AIA to you?
I joined AIA Seattle when I became a member of the Editorial board of Forum, a print publication dedicated to architectural practice, urban design, and Pacific Northwest culture. Following that I was a Chair and/or member of several AIA Seattle Task Forces and Committees, including the Seattle Waterfront, Multifamily Code Update and currently the Comp Plan Work Group and Housing Advocacy Committee, advocating for improved policies that encourage equitable urban solutions focused on improved access, design quality, density and sustainability. I also served as the President of the AIA Seattle Board of Directors in 2013/2014 as part of a three-year term on the Executive Board. Through these experiences, I see AIA Seattle as a way to engage our industry locally and beyond.
What drew you to architecture as a profession?
I wanted to be an architect for as long as I can remember and am aware of my choice from when I was in third grade. It is a natural combination of the many passions I have; art and creative expression, analysis and research, critical and rigorous thinking and opportunities for continued learning and teaching.
How do you explain what you do for a living to family or at a party?
I am a architect, teacher, developer and advocate for urban policy. These are not generally party topics! Instead I focus on connections and listen to what others have to share, contributing my unique point of view when it makes sense.
How has your community helped you get where you are?
For me community ranges over many years and locations. Having moved to Seattle in 2001, I have a strong community locally. It includes my family first as well as collaborators in the form of current and past employees, clients, consultants and city employees. Prior to being in Seattle, I grew up in New Jersey where I built a strong group of friends who are still at the core of my personal community. I studied at Washington University and the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University, where I built lasting connections with colleagues and professors. All the people and experiences in these places contributed to my everyday experiences and drive me to lead and give back to my local community today. They provided a supportive and necessary foundation that allows me to focus on the current and potential opportunities, creating distinctive places and experiences where I work and play.
What is something you are proud of from early in your career?
I am proud that I was able to found my own company shortly after to moving to Seattle in 2001, allowing me the flexibility to balance my commitment to multiple aspects of the architecture profession. From early in my career, I developed my own infill housing projects, taught at the University of Washington, advocated for better urban policies around housing, served as a volunteer on the Seattle Planning Commission for five years and as President of the AIA Seattle Board of Directors.
Where do you see the fields of architecture, engineering, or construction heading?
Architecture needs to lead thoughtful solutions with a focus on urban conditions. In our industry, we should be more informed about the challenges in our cities and local communities so we can be better advocates for change.
What do you hope to contribute with your work?
I hope to contribute mentorship and excellence with my work; focused on teaching in my practice and at the University of Washington Department of Architecture. I hope our process and projects engage communities and individuals and inspire thoughtful responses and action. I an focused on making positive change and inspiring a culture of collaboration and adaptability.
What Inspired You Today?
Seeing my children grow into amazing people!
What is your favorite Seattle-area structure?
The Seattle Central Library is easily my favorite structure. The Olympic Sculpture Park is my favorite place in Seattle.
What is something about your identity or lived experience that informs your work?
I grew up less than 20 miles from New York City in suburban New Jersey. The two places had very different qualities and helped shape my approach to urban projects. I will always think of Manhattan as “the city” and struggle with the many complexities and challenges of suburbs. My work over the last 25 years focuses on infill urban housing, primarily in Seattle. I see this as an opportunity to create thoughtful dense communities in our projects and neighborhoods.
