Texas Contemporary?? Monthly: Women in Architecture Issue

Celebrating Women in Architecture

While it has historically been a challenge for women to carve out space in the field of architecture, their impact on design is unmistakable. When we take a closer look at the women who hold key roles in architecture and design, particularly within LEVY DYKEMA, it's evident their influence is front and center. The women of LEVY DYKEMA are a driving force in molding the firm's identity and steering the course of spatial innovation ahead.

The Chamberlain Building began life in 1857 as the original Corpus Christi lighthouse. The redesigned rooftop, known as The Beacon, draws inspiration from the historical lighthouse once located here.

This distinctive event space offers breathtaking bay views, creating an ideal setting for celebratory occasions. The design for The Beacon, and The Chamberlain Building as a whole, embodies a commitment to preservation, restoration, and modernization, honoring the original architectural design while creating a destination space for the entire community.

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Women and?Architecture ?

“I used to not like being called a 'woman architect.' I'm an architect, not just a woman architect.?The guys used to tap me on the head and say 'You're OK for a girl.' But I see an incredible amount of need from other women for reassurance that it can be done, so I don't mind anymore.”??- Zaha Hadid

? Zaha Hadid's words resonate with me as I continue to navigate my path in architecture. Just like her, I strive to be recognized for my skills and contributions, not just my gender. Yet, I understand the importance of representation and support for women in this field.?Joining a firm that actively promotes, validates, and highlights the role of women in architecture is very exciting. Growing up in a household where my mother held a leadership position in her profession, I was fortunate to have strong female mentors guiding me through the professional landscape. I am indebted to the pioneering women who have paved the way, and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity of continuing their legacy. While studies indicate an increase in the representation of women at all levels in the architecture workforce, gender equality gaps persist. I consider myself fortunate to be employed at a firm that represents a percentage of female ownership to help bridge this gap. At LEVY DYKEMA, we work together to ensure that every aspiring architect, regardless of gender, feels empowered to pursue their dreams and make their mark on the built environment. Together, we help create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive future for architecture.

The LEVY DYKEMA team recently dedicated time away from the office to volunteer with Tree Folks in Austin, TX., actively participating in the "Ready, Set, Plant" event. Together, they planted over 2,000 trees comprising around 30 different species along the riparian area of Onion Creek. Formerly a flood-ravaged housing zone, this initiative will transform the space into a native tree haven, equipping it to handle future floods. Beyond the transformative environmental impact, these outdoor community engagement activities underscore the importance of spending time outside the office, fostering a sense of unity, and contributing to our communities. Great job Christy,?Marcela, Ximena, Priscilla, Charlie, and Amanda!

A Message from Our?Principal?

Together Women Transform the Landscape

The practice of architecture for women, like many professions, has changed in the past forty years. When I began studying architecture in college, I was one of three females in a class of eighty men at the University of Texas in Austin. It was a little strange, but I persevered and wrangled a degree in four years. I never felt disadvantaged although I thought it was strange that there weren’t more girls. My father was an architect and we never discussed the field being male-dominated. I think many women avoided the field because they thought it was loaded with math, which is not the case. Actually, most of the math is handled by engineers. At that time the sciences were for men and the arts and homemaking for women. This is history.

I am happy to say that this has changed dramatically. I serve on the Advisory Council at the University of Texas at Austin and most architecture classes are predominantly women. It makes sense to me. The level of detail required for projects takes a keen sense of scale, color, and patience. Clients are often female and like working with other women who they feel, understand their goals and objectives. It is a much better profession with a mix of genders at the helm, and I believe any project benefits from different perspectives from varying life experiences. I encourage high school girls to pursue the architecture?field, which is ripe with opportunity. There are no barriers to success at this point.

Once those South Texas contractors got used to a female at the helm in 1980, it's been?smooth sailing. I have never looked back.

Biby Dykema