Ian Butcher - AIA Seattle

I AM AIA

Ian Butcher AIA

I am the founding partner at Best Practice Architecture, which is recognized for deploying bold color, material clarity, and diagrammatic precision to heighten the experience and unlock unique design moments, especially when working with existing structures and puzzling constraints. I received my Master of Architecture from the University of Washington and have a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design from North Carolina State University. Prior to establishing Best Practice, I was a Senior Architect at Domestic Architecture and an associate at E. Cobb Architects.

Why Did You Join AIA Seattle? What is the value of AIA to you?

It’s important to be aware of and contribute to the local community that you belong to. I have been fortunate to learn so much from my colleagues who started before me, and I look forward to sharing what I have learned with early-career architects. The AIA is a wonderful support system and resource for just about anything we as architects need to understand complex issues and advance our careers.

What Drew You to Architecture as a Profession?

I always loved building blocks, Legos, and puzzles as a kid, and that curiosity for solving problems and making things has never waned. I had a school field trip to the High Museum of Art in the 8th grade, and from that moment on, I knew I wanted to be an architect.

How has Your Community Helped You get Where You are?

Even though I have been a licensed architect for many years now, I firmly believe there is always something to learn, and you never know who will teach you something new. Our profession is inherently collaborative, and teamwork is required to realize anything in the built environment. I have been privileged to learn so much from builders, mentors, colleagues, and clients, and I look forward to all future opportunities for growth.