I Am AIA:

Charlie Ekblad

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Charlie was born and raised outside Portland, OR, and studied architecture at the University of Oregon. In 2017, he graduated a Bachelor of Architecture with a minor in Business Administration and Planning, Public Policy and Management. Following graduation he moved to Seattle to start a job as an architectural designer with MG2. Charlie is a co-chair of the Young Architects Forum and is involved in the ARE Workshop Subcommittee. Although studying and AIA activities keep him busy outside of the office, he tries to find time to get outside as much as possible on a hike, snowshoe or simply any outdoor patio around the city.

WHY DID YOU JOIN AIA SEATTLE?

I joined AIA because, like many of us, I was new to Seattle. I was seeking a network of like-minded people and an organization that promotes events that are both social and educational. These events involve a wide range of people from different backgrounds, professions, and stages within their career. These conversations are what allow us to hear and learn from experiences outside of our own. Throughout my life, I’ve always wanted to be a part of something bigger than my immediate surroundings. AIA is that ‘something bigger’ during this phase of my life.

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF AIA TO YOU?

The value of AIA comes from its depth of programming and committees. AIA has something for everyone’s interests and pursuits. Within the Young Architects Forum, we see the value of AIA being both a place to build a network and continue to grow and learn as a professional. From the monthly happy hours with Women in Design to the various ARE workshops, members have a range of opportunities to gain value, and YAF is a just small part of the AIA Seattle overall.

WHAT RELATIONSHIPS HAVE YOU CREATED?

Through my involvement with the Young Architects Forum, I have created many relationships. I believe that through the development of these relationships, we as a committee have begun to provide more and more value to our members. Whether these are formal committee meetings or a casual check-in over a beer, as these relationships build, the programming from these meetings do as well.

WHAT PROJECT ARE YOU WORKING ON NOW?

I work primarily in the retail and industrial sectors of architecture. With this comes an inspiring fast pace work environment. Currently, I am working on multiple projects ranging in size and phase. One is a small building addition that is now in for land use approval, while another is a new build under construction that will exceed 400,000 square feet. For someone like me, who is only three years into their career, this balance of design and delivery offers excellent exposure to the field.

HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN WHAT YOU DO FOR A LIVING?

It is always exciting when the question comes from someone unfamiliar with architecture. I am still in the process of becoming licensed. Nevertheless, I often end up explaining the licensure process. After the third or fourth acronym like NCARB, NAAB, ARE, AXP, PPD, etc. the conversation tends to revert to something different.

CAN DESIGN SAVE THE WORLD?

Design by itself is unable to save the world. However, undoubtedly the spaces we design impact human behavior. This impact can shape anything from how a family navigates a grocery store to informing how people interact with one another in spaces that global leaders gather. With this understanding, if we make design decisions that promote diversity, collaboration, and exploration; design can certainly do its part.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO CONTRIBUTE FROM YOUR WORK?

I have been fortunate to have a series of mentors and leaders throughout my educational and professional careers who have always helped me reach my highest potential and bring my best work forward. I hope to do the same for those deciding to explore the field of architecture and design.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEATTLE-AREA STRUCTURE?

This is a tough question. However, I would say Gas Works Park because of its placement in the city, natural setting and context, history, and unique features. It’s a place that checks the box for a fantastic Saturday, whether you have friends visiting or just want to enjoy the sun.