Abby Davis
est. April 2021
Everyone is unique – but Abby is UNIQUELY unique. She genuinely seems to love her work, loves her coworkers, and radiates a “can-do” attitude everywhere she goes. The office is a brighter, more positive, and more confident place simply because she’s here. We are very excited to finally share Abby with the world in Volume 13 of our Studio Session series!
Where are you from and how did you land in architecture?
I’m from Frankfort, Kentucky, and didn’t always know I wanted to be in architecture, life kind of just lead me to it. I was originally a biology major at the University of Kentucky, but was struggling to connect with the curriculum and knew I didn’t want to keep pursuing it. A friend actually told me she was in the architecture program and by the next semester I had switched majors and never looked back.
What did you want to be when you were a kid?
When I was a kid, I really wanted to be on the women’s national soccer team when I grew up.
Where and when did you go to school / college?
I graduated from Franklin County High School in 2009, then received my Bachelor of Architecture in 2015 and my Masters in 2018 from the University of Kentucky College of Design.
Describe in a few sentences your role at iA.
I am a project designer at our firm, so I am often assisting the project managers in transitioning a client’s vision from conceptual designs to their finished project.
What kinds of challenges have you encountered and what do you find interesting about them?
I think the best part about architecture is that each project proves to have its own challenges and rewards – like a puzzle you have to piece together to get the completed picture. Over the past few years, we’ve seen more challenges arise as COVID has changed so many aspects of our industry. Specifically, we’re having to navigate more complicated timelines and shifting building material costs. While these have been frustrating challenges to navigate, they have provided an opportunity for enhanced communication with our clients which has led to better overall designs.
What trends in the architectural industry is currently sparking your interest?
I think technology has developed a stronger role in architecture than ever before. It used to be that technology was mainly utilized as a tool for showcasing design, but now it’s being used in all facets of the architectural process. From designing with BIM software to creating VR walkthroughs where clients can experience their space, technology has become a cornerstone for architecture and is ever evolving.
What are three things most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I was a biology major before going into architecture, I thought I wanted to do something in medicine. I’m a competitive person. I’ll take any opportunity to beat my coworkers at a tournament challenge or impromptu office game (competition is the spice of life). I like painting in my free time.
[Editor’s Note: Abby’s competitive spirit has definitely made this office an exciting place to be. From one chip challenges to foot races we’ve not known a dull week since Abby started!]
If you had the opportunity to design any building or product with unlimited funds and resources what would it be?
I think it would be fun to design my dream home – you practically need an unlimited budget to build a house in today’s market!
What are you most passionate about professionally? Personally?
Professionally, I’m passionate about continuing to learn and grow as architecture evolves and grows. Personally, I’m passionate about making the world a better place. Whether it’s through my friendships, relationships, or design.
[Editor’s Note: she’s certainly made this office a better place!]
What are some of your professional goals?
I want to get licensed in the next year (if I say that in writing, that means I have to right…?)
What do you like to do in your spare time?
On any given week, you can find me at Marikkas playing volleyball or at Woodland Park playing kickball. On the weekends, I enjoy renovating my house and spending time with family.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken since completing my masters degree and where I am professionally. However, I’m most proud of the meaningful relationships that I’ve made in this industry with people who I look up to and have helped guide me as a designer.