As a part of an ongoing series, the following is an interview to dig a little bit deeper and learn what makes our team tick, what fascinates us about the design industry, and what is most important to us right now.
Joel is a world traveler with an eye for high design. He has visited over 35 countries and lived in both Europe and Asia. At Arrowstreet, Joel brings his passions and enthusiasm to resiliency, as he recently played a leadership role in the studio’s submission for the City of Boston: Living with Water competition. He strives to bring new ideas and approaches to his work and thinks creatively in every endeavor.
K: How long have you been at AST?
J: More than 3 years—time flies!
K: What projects are you currently working on?
J: My focus is on Parcel K, the Congress Square development and a mixed-use project at One Newton Place.
K: What, in your opinion, is the most interesting facet of the design industry today?
J: As a design professional, I think it’s the balance of satisfying competing interests while producing something to be proud of architecturally. We have to prove that good design really IS worth the attention, time, and budget of our clients, society, and even our industry.
K: Where do you like to find your inspiration?
J: Travel and pretentious, high-fashion everything.
K: Who is your mentor and how has that person affected your career?
J: I’m privileged to work under the guidance of Amy Korte and David Bois. They’ve given me the tools and presented me the opportunity to experiment with the design process and accelerate my career. Their direction has encouraged me to challenge myself in ways that wouldn’t be possible in another studio.
K: Do you have a cause or industry-related professional organization that is close to your heart?
J: Um, does Arrowstreet beer and wine hour count!? No, but seriously, it is a great opportunity to take time out at the end of the week to relax, download, and enjoy the company of your colleagues. Teamwork, networking, and office cohesion are critical to success an industry like this.
K: Have you recently read/seen any interesting books/interviews/articles/exhibits/etc that have really spoken to you?
J: Last spring Claes Andreasen and I participated in a design charrette with Craig Dykers at Snohetta. Without a doubt, it was the most profound experience of my career. That man’s brain moves in places and ways most of us can only dream of.
K: What is the most important thing to you for furthering your career?
J: Never settling for the status quo.
Topics: Interview