Vivian Schmidt

vschmidt@pcadesign.com

Vivian's interest in travel and exploring different cultures makes her just right for community engagement work. Her experiences will inform her design contributions.

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Vivian in a nutshell

  • I’m from  Rotterdam, NY

  • My education  B.Arch and M.Arch, Wentworth Institute of Technology

  • Notable accomplishments/awards  Thesis travel studio to China where I was able to work with local students and community members.
    Merit scholar and former Tau Sigma Delta member.

  • Any community service?  Participated in the WIT Mentorship program acting as a mentor to younger students

  • Why PCA?  The people! The dedication to growth and community is truly inspiring. The approach to humanistic design also drew me in. It shows the passion and care that goes into each project.

  • My earliest design memory  Around the age of eight, my dad asked my brother and I to write out what our dream house looked like. My imagination took over and I ended up with pages of drawings before I even knew what architecture was.

  • I’m drawn to design because  of the impact it has on the people living, working and using a space daily. I think architecture is ultimately about people and for as long as I can remember, I've always wanted to help others and leave a positive impact on their lives.

  • A space/place that has affected me is  the Lingyin Temple area in Hangzhou China. It's such a respected piece of architecture that has been around for almost 2,000 years. Walking along the steps to each temple feels like walking in the steps of everyone who came before you.

  • Materials that excite me are  ones that are natural, sustainable and/or relate to their context. I love spaces that feel cohesive and blend together!

  • I’m inspired by  traveling! I love meeting new people, exploring cultures and seeing unique approaches to problems.

  • What is the nerdiest thing you do in your spare time?  Board games! I recently started playing a Gloomhaven quest with some friends.

  • Cats or dogs?  My cats will hate me but I love both.

  • The most fulfilling thing I've done is  studying abroad in Germany. It's amazing the independence and confidence you learn from moving across the ocean for a few months.

  • My favorite creative endeavor  Baking. I love putting everything into a delicious dish that others can enjoy.

  • My best vacation  Always the next one!