Sarah Burk AIA - AIA Seattle

I AM AIA

Sarah Burk AIA

I was raised in rural Oklahoma and Montana. Being a part of small, strong communities gave me a deep appreciation for preserved, engaging urban neighborhoods. Since moving to Seattle in 2018, I have focused a majority of my work on low to mid-rise multifamily development within the city. I have worked with multiple firms and the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods to develop their approach to early community outreach. I have also served on the AIA Seattle’s Young Architects Forum ARE Workshop Subcommittee and as a Young Voices Panelist for the 2019 AIA Seattle Honor Awards.

I joined AIA Seattle because…

Initially it was so I could meet like-minded peers and gain support during the licensure progress. While in school, I was a part of the AIA-S and served on the chapter board for 5 years. It felt like the natural next step. However, I renew each year because I have found so much more beyond my initial expectations.

What inspired me today?

I’ve recently moved (previously from a basement ADU off Aurora to an above-ground structure on a corner lot) and I’ve put my desk in these corner windows that face the street. I now get to watch throughout the day as my street changes from work commute to dog walking to kids getting off the bus from school. You can’t take for granted how important little things like the intersection of streets plays a huge role and has a big impact on our everyday life. Everyone should have access to public space that makes them feel healthy, happy, and human. It’s important to me that those that want/need access to those spaces have it and that those spaces are considered and not left behind.

To me, the value of AIA is…

Being a resource that I have tapped into throughout my career. It has helped me understand fair and equitable pay for my work (AIA compensation table), learn urban design approaches other cities are exploring (Residential Housing Forum), connect with local industry and development leaders (YAF) – the list goes on… I lean on AIA for anything related to architecture. I see it as a database that architects have been investing in for over 150 years – and with more unique and diverse voices coming to the table, it’s only getting better!

I explain what I do for a living as…

“I design multi-family housing in Seattle that focuses on liveable and respectful connections to the neighborhood.”

What do I hope to contribute through my work?

My goal is to make places people are happy and proud to live in. Places that are sustainable – environmentally and economically.

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

I believe that advocacy for the profession of architecture and for the architect is one of the most important roles I can have as an architect. We have a huge responsibility for the future of our built environment and the impact that has on generations to come. What we decide matters. We are a powerful voice when united – one that has a say on climate change, social equity, sustainability, preservation, infrastructure, and policy. All of these topics are just as prevalent in Seattle as they are nationwide. I look forward to diving in and learning what we can do in creating effective change in architecture.