Alex Brownell AIA (he/him/his)

I’m from  California originally, but grew up in Belchertown, MA.

My education  M.Arch, Northeastern University

Why PCA?  I love the people and culture at PCA and am inspired by the values that the company stands for. It is a place where I am able to express my own creativity and collaborate with others who are passionate about what they are doing. Aside from the amazing work we do, people genuinely care about and support each other as human beings.

My earliest design memory  Building LEGO cities as a kid growing up. As an only child I had to amuse myself.

I’m drawn to design because  seeing something built that was originally conceived of as a sketch or a simple idea will always fascinate me. I love the challenge of helping to create something that can benefit the physical world around us and the people using it.

A project I’m proud of is  Parcel W at Cambridge Crossing. I believe this will be a transformative project for Cambridge and a project that will create great gathering spaces for people to get together and enjoy time together.

A place that has affected me is  Shanghai, China. After living and working there for two years my approach to architecture, and life has changed.

I’m excited about building technology that  reduces energy use and carbon emissions.

My favorite aspect of working with clients is  getting to know people, developing a personal and caring relationship, and at the end of the day seeing them happy about the work I did for them.

Building or place I wish I designed is  The Pantheon or really anything from Ancient Rome. The level of creativity, detail and ingenuity is absolutely astonishing.

On my playlist is  a lot of The Black Keys, Run the Jewels, The National and Glass Animals.

If I could snap my fingers and become an expert in something, it would be  fatherhood.

My best vacation  A month-long road trip through New Zealand.