International Women's Day: In Conversation

International Women’s Day is a global day to celebrate women, raise awareness about discrimination and take action to drive gender equality. The theme for 2024 is “Inspire Inclusion”, which aims to collectively forge a more inclusive world for women.

Navigating the built environment industry is no walk in the park – it’s known for its abundant opportunities but also its fair share of challenges, especially for women. In honour of International Women’s Day 2024, we asked five women from our team to share their career stories, the invaluable advice that has guided them, and their thoughts on how the sector can authentically achieve equality.

These five remarkable women have used their voices, creative skills, and visionary ideas to turn human stories into extraordinary places. But what is the story behind their career journey, and what pearls of wisdom do they have for other women wanting to follow in their footsteps?

Read on, find out and be inspired!

Q: What or who inspired you to become a landscape architect (or architect)?

A: I discovered Landscape Architecture while at Art College, exploring the idea of place and ‘genuis loci’, and I have never looked back. Patricia Brown, the former director of the Landscape course at Kingston University, made a big impression on me on the open day, and I thought, ‘I want to do what she does.’

Q: What's the most empowering or uplifting advice you've ever received from another woman?

A: It was quite simple, really, but a mentor of mine once said to me, “Trust yourself”. I think women, in particular, struggle with doubt.

Q: What's the best piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

A: It's no one else’s job to stand up for you, have the confidence to fail and succeed.

Q: How do you think the profession can change to encourage equality?

A: I believe role models are vitally important for everyone. Therefore, the industry needs equality among business owners. To get to this point, embracing flexible working habits is key, as women, in particular, juggle many pressures on their time.

Q: What or who inspired you to become a landscape architect (or architect)?

A: Before starting university, my primary interest lay in design. However, as my academic journey unfolded, I began to understand the importance of considering nature, the environment, and society as a whole. While studying art and architectural history, I realised the need for more emphasis on the contributions of many famous women and remained unaware of the male-dominated aspect of history. It wasn't until I learned about the significant role of women in landscape architecture and architectural history that I became truly impressed and inspired by their success. As my academic journey progressed, I also appreciated the rich diversity of perspectives within design and history. Recognising the need to embrace and celebrate non-binary voices and contributions in shaping our understanding of art, architecture, and the world became increasingly evident.

Q: What's the most empowering or uplifting advice you've ever received from another woman?

A: We are facing challenges in incorporating alternative approaches in our field. To make our designs more equitable, we can focus on design for all and involve collaborative processes. Although the path of design may not always be smooth, the outcome is worth the effort. We can create something truly remarkable by working together and trying new approaches.

Q: What's the best piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

A: It's essential to be kind to yourself and not let hierarchy silence your voice. Remember your inner voice and how it can positively impact your environment.

Q: How do you think the profession can change to encourage equality?

A: I believe that creating a work environment that values and respects individuals of all backgrounds, eliminates gender-based pay gaps, and promotes work-life balance and flexibility is essential to accommodate the diverse needs of professionals.

Q: What or who inspired you to become a landscape architect (or architect)?

A: I was inspired to become a landscape architect by the seamless integration of nature and design. I find inspiration in shaping our built environment and fostering vibrant communities. Landscape architecture allows me to bridge the gap between nature and human experience, creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. Landscape architects’ ability to shape spaces that evoke emotions and tell stories through nature left an indelible mark on me.

Q: What's the most empowering or uplifting advice you've ever received from another woman?

A: I had the privilege to study and work with the most empowering senior female landscape architect through my journey, and she told me, "In a field where creativity knows no bounds, don't be afraid to let your unique voice be heard. Your perspective, ideas, and innovation have the power to reshape the narrative of our profession. Embrace your uniqueness; it's your greatest asset."

It instilled in me the confidence to actively participate in conversations, share my ideas, and advocate for myself and others.

Q: What's the best piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

A: Looking back, I would tell my younger self not to be afraid of choosing different paths from others and never hesitate to create your own. I would remind myself that everyone has a different way of discovering themselves and taking the challenges and setbacks along the path as opportunities for growth.

The construction industry can be demanding, and there will be moments of doubt and difficulty. However, remember that every challenge presents an opportunity to learn, adapt, and develop resilience.

It’s important to remember that growth comes from perseverance and resilience, not just from success.

Q: How do you think the profession can change to encourage equality?

A: To achieve true equality in the construction industry, we must actively promote diversity of thought and perspective. We need to encourage mentorship programs that connect aspiring professionals with seasoned experts, breaking down barriers that hinder women's advancement. Additionally, creating a supportive workplace culture that values and rewards skills and achievements regardless of gender will contribute to a more inclusive and equitable profession.

Q: What or who inspired you to become an architect?

A: My tutor suggested it at school as I was passionate about art and maths at the same time. Once studying, I became more inspired the more I learnt from architects like Lebbeus Woods and urbanists like Jane Jacobs

Q: What's the most empowering or uplifting advice you've ever received from another woman?

A: Don’t be scared to sketch; the more you sketch, the easier it becomes. It has become too easy to rely on computer software to demonstrate ideas effectively, but hand-drawn ideas convey concepts quickly and helpfully to clients.

Q: What's the best piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

A: Don’t sweat the small stuff, and get more sleep!

Q: How do you think the profession can change to encourage equality?

A: Equal pay, equal maternity and paternity leave, mentoring schemes to foster career development and managerial training to encourage discussion and involvement from early on, along with client-facing practice

Q: What or who inspired you to become a landscape architect (or architect)?

A: My passion for the built environment inspired me to become an architect and urban designer. I've always been fascinated by how places and buildings can directly impact people's lives and well-being. Witnessing the transformative power of architecture to shape communities, foster connections, and enhance quality of life motivated me to pursue a career where I could contribute to creating meaningful spaces that resonate with people on a deep level. Architecture & urban design, to me, is not just about designing structures & places, but about crafting experiences and shaping environments that enrich the human experience.

Q: What's the most empowering or uplifting advice you've ever received from another woman?

A: The most empowering advice I've received from my mentor is to accept that my 'plan' may change. She explained that having an end goal will always keep you focused, but knowing that your mind and opportunities will change is part of the adventure. She also emphasised that while aiming to get from point A to B in a smooth line is the dream, unexpected paths may emerge, leading you exactly where you want to be. This advice encouraged me to embrace flexibility and resilience in my journey, reminding me that detours and unforeseen routes can often lead to the most fulfilling destinations.

Q: What's the best piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

A: Life unfolds as a series of discoveries, where every challenge presents an opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek guidance when you need it. While you may perceive yourself as entirely capable, asking for help signifies strength rather than weakness.

Q: How do you think the profession can change to encourage equality?

A: Efforts towards fostering equality have been evident in recent years, yet there remains ample opportunity for further advancement. Implementing flexible work arrangements, ensuring equal pay and benefits, and providing avenues for career advancement are crucial steps in promoting equality within the profession.