Black Professional (Unregistered).

Name:

Shawn T. Waddell

- City:

Originally from Greensboro, NC, USA but now I am starting my career in Chicago, IL, USA

- College & Practice (if already practicing):

I graduated from North Carolina A&T State University with my B.S. in Architectural Engineering in 2015. Then I came to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and graduated with my Masters of Architecture with a structures concentration. I will be starting my career at SmithGroup in Chicago where I will be working as a structural engineer.

- Favorite Architect(s)?

Phillip Freelon,

Renzo Piano,

Paul Revere Williams,

Harvey B. Gantt - Favorite Building(s)?

Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts and Culture; The Modern Wing

- How would you describe being a Black Architecture student/Black Architect in the profession? 

It can feel very isolating, especially in academia, where you might be the only black person you see on a daily basis. What helped me when I first started was knowing that I wasn't just busting my tail for my own success - my growth and graduation was for the people behind me. The people behind me - those who are looking at my every move, look up to me, or who don't believe they could do it - are the people I do this for. When they can see someone like me walk across the stage - or even speak at the graduation - that means they will believe that it is for them, too. Architecture is for the people, not the ego.

- How important is diversity to the profession?

Diversity should be paramount in the profession, especially as the world melts into other countries. Architecture isn't just for the majority; other inputs/ideas/backgrounds are necessary to make the world grow. If we have only one point of view designing, they aren't always going to know what is best for another group of people. We need all colors, creeds, orientations in the fold to make the best architecture. If you do not believe that, then you are holding the profession back!

- Are you licensed?

I am not licensed yet, but I am working towards my hours and hope to start taking the exams by the end of the year. I believe it is important for people of color - especially black people - to be licensed because it puts power into the communities we design for. It also is a point of recognition, paving the way for the designers in the pipeline. Getting licensed is not just of yourself, it is for those behind you as well!

- What is your design philosophy?

I have two ideas that keep me going.

One, "don't call it architecture if you aren't helping anybody"! This means that all your designs need to account for the client and the user groups. This isn't just about making the most complex design, it is about solving a problem through usage of space.

Second, "simplicity". This doesn't mean make all buildings rectangular, it means don't worker harder than you have to. Don't make the design process difficult for yourself. Be efficient and know when to switch from the theoretical to the practical.

- Tell us about one of your most significant project (Built, Unbuilt or Student work)?

Well I think my most significant project was the one group project I did in graduate school. It was the first time I worked with someone on a design, and it turned into a wonderful experience. We both were passionate about the project  - a Permanent Supportive Housing solution for Homeless Veterans in Danville, IL- and it showed not just in our design, but in our presentations, conversations, and the joy we both exude. This project is important because it showed me that I can work with others and be greater than the sum of our parts. Architecture isn't a solo gig, it is a group effort. I am better for this lesson, and always look forward to working with others. Shout out to my friend, Rebecca Andersen Burke for being the best partner I could have in school!