10Qs: Getting to Know the People Behind the Projects…Julian

“When I see a design that I fall in love with it reminds me that I need to work harder so that I can one day produce works that others will admire.”

Julian McKnight is the 4wrd Diversity in Design Scholarship recipient working as an intern with the DC team.

1. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Manassas, Virginia, spending a lot of my time enjoying the parks and hiking spots around the area.

2. How did you get into design?

I have always had an interest in design. In school I started out in engineering as I was interested in the building process. I quickly switched majors to Architecture as I decided it would be a great mix of design and building development.

3. Who influenced you?

My Uncle who is a Civil Engineer. When I was younger, he would take me on a tour of his sites and the building process always fascinated me.

4. Why healthcare architecture?

During the summer breaks in between my college semesters I decided to do internships in a number of different fields of architecture to experience all of the different aspects architectural design has to offer. Healthcare Architecture caught my eye because it incredibly precise in the needs it has to fulfill for its inhabitants, making every project require new solutions to new problems.

5. What inspires you?

I am inspired by new and innovative architecture. When I see a design that I fall in love with it reminds me that I need to work harder so that I can one day produce works that others will admire.

6. What advice can you give young designers?

I have found it is beneficial to remind myself not to be afraid to ask questions. It is better to ask for clarification rather than pretending to know something you do not.

7. What are your most memorable projects?

Out of the few projects I have experience working on, the project I was most involved in was the project for the Residences at Kenilworth Avenue. It was interesting to be on a project long enough to see some progress occurring in its development.

8. What is your favorite part of the design process?

I assume the best part of the design process is when you start to see your drawings become a reality, watching the sheets become an actual building. Even in my own smaller achievements it gives me a fulfilling feeling, like you were part of the process of making something that will last a long time.

9. Where do you see healthcare design in 5 years?

I think healthcare design will continue to grow and transform as personalized information becomes more readily available and precise. With more access comes more revenue and owners will continually need new additions and buildings to accommodate the growth.

10. How do you unplug?

I love spending times outdoors. I like to spend my free time hiking and longboarding with my friends whenever I can pinpoint the nice weather in this area.