Aleks Swilo has recently been promoted to Senior Designer at PTID. In an interview with Architecture & Design, she explains how she went from being a Student Intern to her current role in the same practice thanks to invaluable mentorship.
Architecture & Design: Congratulations on your recent promotion! Can you share what this new role entails and what you’re most excited about?
Aleks Swilo: My new position as Senior Designer involves steering the helm of key projects, leading the team and fostering relationships with our clients. I’m excited to delve into the project opportunities that my new role will create.
How has your career trajectory led you to this point, and what pivotal moments or projects have been particularly influential?
My time at PTID began as a Student Intern. Under the guidance of some great mentorship, I’ve been supported through each milestone in my career. I’ve been lucky to have been given the opportunity to design & lead some fantastic projects.
Our design for the Milwaukee Tool HQ was a recent highlight - it required careful detailing to weave the existing fabric with the contemporary additions. Partnering with Amicus, we had a great team on board and were able to deliver a great result for our clients.
In what ways do you plan to leverage your new position to impact the firm and the field of architecture more broadly?
I’m keen to place a greater emphasis on environmental sustainability and wellness on all future projects. As designers, it is our responsibility to educate our clients and hold our construction partners and consultants to account. We have many opportunities to create a positive impact in the design process and we should be leveraging our power at every chance.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have they shaped your approach to architecture and leadership?
Every project comes with a fresh challenge to tackle and learn from. Many issues that arise in the process are related to miscommunication – I’ve come to realise good communication is a powerful asset in our industry. It is instrumental in fostering client and industry relationships and crucial in the studio, where communication between team members is vital in reaching project deadlines.
How do you envision the future of architecture evolving, and how do you plan to contribute to that vision in your new role?
I think the field of architecture will continue to embrace innovations in environmental design, creating healthy buildings for people to thrive in. I will continue to build my knowledge regarding materials with a positive end of life cycle, sustainability & building ecosystems so that I’m in a better position to keep pushing this agenda in all my projects.
What advice would you give to aspiring architects who look up to your career path and achievements?
Take every opportunity that comes to you, be curious and focus your efforts on helping the team. Above all, learn to communicate effectively!
Can you discuss any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re particularly enthusiastic about in your new role?
I am the design lead for a fantastic project for a well-known brand in our industry that I’m excited to share in a few months’ time!
