Matt Hutchins AIA - AIA Seattle

I AM AIA

Mat Hutchins AIA

I am a founding Principal of CAST Architecture with a focus on creative infill housing as the nexus of low-carbon living, urban vitality, and social policy. I serve as a Director of Public Policy on the AIA Seattle Board of Directors and as the Strategic Councilor for AIA Washington Council. I have co-chaired AIA Seattle’s Housing Task Force and organized many public programs on urban design, housing, and accessory dwelling units. I was named AIA Seattle’s Volunteer of the Year in 2020 and am a Seattle Planning Commissioner and Co-Chair of the Housing and Neighborhoods Committee.

As a founder of CAST architecture, I have spent more than twenty years working to increase the vitality of cities and protect the environment. Through my design and policy work, I am an advocate for better density, abundant housing options, vibrant urban spaces, open space, and sustainable building.

I see the value of AIA as…

Architecture is never easy, and having the support of a peer group of professionals makes the journey more fulfilling. A few years ago, I started having a more active role in AIA Seattle and have been rewarded with many new friendships and have learned much. It has given me more of a voice and the confidence to use it.

I explain what I do for a living by…

Introducing myself as both an architect and an advocate, because I’ve been very lucky to been able to practice what I preach.

I’m interested in serving on the AIA Seattle Board of Directors because…

Architects have a unique ability to look at the world and visualize how it could be. Today, we’re faced with deep challenges around housing affordability, climate change and systemic racism, and as architects we have a responsibility to use our insight and vision to project persuasive solutions and ultimately build resilient, connected, sustainable communities. As a Director, I work to create opportunities for architects to leverage their experience, knowledge and vision to serve our common good.

Do I believe design can save the world?

Since buildings are one of the largest contributors to climate change, and since cities can be one of the largest weapons against climate change, design has to. The decisions we make at our desks today will in a tiny part affect generations.