KAA is proud to announce the promotion of Patricia Baker, AIA to Associate. We would like to recognize and thank Patti for her exemplary contribution and commitment to KAA Design Group. Read on to learn more about Patti Baker.
Interview with Patti Baker, AIA
What inspired you to become an architect?
My family lived in Europe from when I was age 6-12. We traveled a lot and experienced a variety of building types and styles of Architecture. I was fascinated from a very early age with buildings, landscape, and art. I believe this early exposure was my initial inspiration to be a designer and ultimately an architect. I have always had a natural ability to draw, an understanding of composition, and strong problem solving skills. These together with my early influences set the direction of my eventual career choice.
What was the first thing you ever designed?
An entry gate to the flea market below the historic Bernside Bridge in Portland, Oregon.
How would you describe your style?
Simple and understated, yet refined in detail. Textured and ordered. Structural and contextual.
What are your personal design "don'ts"?
Building forms that have no functional purpose but to attract attention or be "different". That said, I have an appreciation for buildings that are different and can justify their form. I feel strongly against designing a building as separate facades instead of an entire whole or a composition from all sides.
How do you fuse your vision with your client's individual style and desires?
I like to fully understand any vision the client might come to the table with first. Each project and client is completely unique, but typically we are fortunate in that clients come to KAA expecting us to guide them in a direction that is appropriate.
What is your dream project?
An estate winery - a complex of buildings on a sprawling site with a variety of program requirements and site topography.
If you were not an architect, what would you be?
I would have to be in the design field to be truly content. Perhaps an interior designer or graphic or industrial designer. It would definitely have to be creative.