EP. 15 | LIFE LONG LEARNER

In this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Arlenne Gil, Principal at DLR Group, to talk about a career shaped by higher education, design, mentorship, leadership, and a strong commitment to giving back to the architecture community.Arlenne takes us back to her early journey, from growing up in Cuba and moving to the United States to discovering architecture while in high school. We also explore her education at the University of Florida, including the difference between her undergraduate studies at UF's main campus and her graduate experience at CityLab. Arlenne shares her experience of starting early in her professional career at HHCP and how that shaped her academic experience.The conversation then follows her professional growth at DLR Group and her journey toward becoming a Principal. Arlenne gives us insight into what that leadership role actually means, what she does in her day-to-day, and how she navigates the responsibilities of leadership, travel, client relationships, and continued career growth.A major part of the conversation centers on mentorship and giving back to the profession. Through her involvement with organizations and initiatives such as Women in Architecture, the Young Architects Forum, Academic Alliance, and AIA, Arlenne has helped build stronger connections between students, emerging professionals, and the broader architectural community. She discusses why creating these opportunities matters and how mentorship can have a lasting impact on someone's career. Arlenne reminds us to always look for opportunities and, when a gap needs to be filled, take the initiative to lead. We only regret the opportunities we didn’t take.Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Joshua Treadway, architecture professor at UCF, to explore his journey from engineering to architecture, his passion for teaching, and how innovation continues to shape the way we learn, think, and design.Joshua takes us back to his early years growing up in Sarasota and his unconventional path into architecture, beginning with electrical engineering at UCF before pursuing architecture at the University of Florida and later Virginia Tech. He reflects on how his education, particularly his exposure to architectural history, philosophy, and theory, shaped his understanding of the importance of knowing not just how to design, but why we design.We then explore his transition from professional practice into academia and how teaching became an important part of his career. Joshua shares his perspective on encouraging students to think critically, develop their own purpose, and recognize that architecture is so much more than simply designing buildings. We also discuss the importance of communicating ideas, understanding their value, and developing work that remains meaningful beyond the classroom.The conversation dives into innovation, technology, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in architecture. Joshua challenges the idea that AI is an entirely new phenomenon, reminding us that technology has always been part of the profession's evolution. From digital tools to AI, we discuss how architects and educators must continue adapting, how students can use these tools to expand their creativity, and why technology should support the design process rather than replace the thinking behind it.We also discuss bridging the gap between academia and professional practice, including Joshua's involvement in research collaborations between UCF and HKS. He shares how these connections can bring new ideas into real-world applications, creating opportunities for students, educators, and professionals to learn from one another.Throughout the episode, Joshua reminds us that innovation is not just about having the newest tools, but about knowing what to do with them. It's a conversation about curiosity, adaptability, creativity, and the importance of being intentional in what we create and who we become as designers.Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Steve Belflower, President of HuntonBrady Architects, to talk about a career that has grown alongside the firm, from starting as an intern to eventually stepping into its highest leadership role.Steve takes us back to his early years growing up in Winter Park, where an interest in drawing, drafting, and houses first sparked his curiosity about architecture..We then explore Steve’s professional journey at HuntonBrady, and how his responsibilities gradually shifted from practicing architecture to managing people and ultimately running a firm. Steve gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what leadership in architecture actually involves, from people, finances, contracts, risk, and long-term vision to unexpected responsibilities like HR, insurance, and even serving as a problem solver for the people around him.The conversation also dives into firm culture and HuntonBrady’s “small giant” mentality: focusing on being a great firm rather than simply becoming a larger one. Steve discusses the importance of maintaining a family-like culture, the challenges that come with growth, and why protecting that culture remains an important part of the firm’s future.Finally, we talk about partnership, stewardship, and the business of architecture. Steve shares how HuntonBrady’s partnership structure helps prepare the next generation to carry the firm forward, and how leadership evaluates which projects to pursue, when to say no, and how contracts, risk, profitability, ethics, and relationships shape decisions in a successful architecture practice.Throughout the episode, Steve offers an insightful perspective on the side of architecture that is rarely discussed in school: what it means to not only design buildings, but to lead people, build a lasting firm, and take responsibility for its future.Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Professor Kourtney Baldwin, currently the Program Director of Architecture at Valencia College, to explore a career in architecture that took an unexpected turn from traditional practice into education, mentorship, and leadership. Born and raised in Orlando, Kourtney shares her journey from studying architecture at the University of Florida and the University of Michigan to discovering that the path she originally imagined for herself was not necessarily the one she was meant to follow.We discuss her early experiences working in architecture, her original goal of becoming licensed and eventually owning her own firm, and the moments that pushed her to reconsider what a meaningful career could look like. Kourtney reflects on how encouragement from a close friend led her to begin teaching at Valencia College, where what started as a new opportunity ultimately became a career she deeply connected with.The conversation explores her evolution as an educator and Program Director, the growth of Valencia’s architecture program, and what she has learned from years of reviewing pin-ups, portfolios, and helping students find their own direction. She shares her perspective on what makes students stand out, the importance of protecting your mental and emotional well-being, and why education became such an important part of the legacy she hopes to leave behind.We also dive into Kourtney’s experience as a woman in architecture, how she has seen the profession evolve, and what younger women entering the field should understand about finding their voice and creating a career on their own terms.Finally, Kourtney reflects on the values that have guided her beyond architecture—from being willing to change direction when something no longer feels right to choosing kindness, giving back, and creating opportunities for the people who come after you. As she reminds us, “Don’t be a taker, be a giver.”Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc.

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Debra Lemmons, Principal of L2 Studios, to explore a career shaped by architecture, interior design, community engagement, and leadership. Debra shares how her early background in fine arts influenced her approach to architecture and how her professional journey ultimately led her to establish L2 Studios alongside her husband.The conversation explores Debra’s multidisciplinary approach to design and the way she bridges architecture and interiors across different scales. Drawing from her extensive experience in hospitality design, she discusses hospitality not simply as a project type, but as a mindset centered on creating meaningful experiences, connections, and a sense of belonging, an approach that can influence healthcare, education, workplace, and civic environments as well.We also discuss Debra’s involvement in Orlando’s architectural community through organizations such as AIA Orlando, the Orlando Foundation for Architecture (OFA), and the Orlando Center for Architecture + Design (OCAD). She reflects on the evolution of OFA, her role in shaping its strategic direction, and the ongoing journey to develop OCAD into a resource for students, design professionals, and the wider Orlando community.Finally, Debra shares insights from her experience as a woman in architecture and design, discussing leadership, confidence, advocacy, career development, and finding your voice within a multidisciplinary profession. Throughout the episode, she offers a candid look at the opportunities, challenges, and relationships that have shaped both her practice and her commitment to strengthening Orlando’s design community.Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Adriana Henry, to explore how architecture can extend beyond buildings and become a tool for strengthening communities, environmental systems, and everyday life. From growing up in South Florida to studying at the University of Florida and Cornell University, Adriana shares the experiences that have shaped her approach to design, research, and practice.We discuss her professional journey, the role research plays in her work, and how topics such as food systems, local economies, and community engagement have transformed the way she thinks about architecture. Adriana reflects on the projects and experiences that challenged her perspective and reinforced the importance of designing with people, place, and context at the center.The conversation also explores climate-responsive design, biomimicry, and innovative building materials, including how architects can learn from natural systems to create more thoughtful and sustainable environments. Adriana shares her perspective on designing with local resources, embracing regional identity, and balancing ambitious ideas with the realities of budgets, clients, and community needs.Finally, Adriana offers valuable advice for students and emerging professionals, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, collaboration, and recognizing architecture’s potential to create meaningful change in people’s everyday lives.Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Philip Donavan, architect, educator, and designer at LITTLE, to discuss the experiences that have shaped his career and perspective on the profession. From the unexpected career change to architecture to teaching the next generation of designers at UF CityLab, Philip reflects on the journey that led him to practice, education, and mentorship.We explore his educational and professional path, the mentors who influenced his growth, and the lessons he has learned throughout his career. Philip also shares his firsthand experience working in Manhattan during the 2008 financial crisis, discussing how that pivotal moment impacted the architecture profession.The conversation discusses sustainability in practice, including net-zero design, building performance, certification systems such as LEED and the Living Building Challenge, and how project goals shape the design process.Finally, Philip offers valuable insights on architectural licensure, professional responsibility, and the importance of continuous growth, leaving listeners with thoughtful advice for students and emerging professionals navigating their own paths in architecture.Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Michael Compton, architect, educator, healthcare design leader, and advocate for designing spaces that truly serve people.Michael shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in New Jersey to earning a music scholarship as a jazz saxophone player, learning construction hands-on alongside his stepfather, and ultimately discovering architecture as a career path. What began as an unexpected direction led him to the University of Florida, where he studied Interior Design, participated in the Vicenza Program, and later returned to earn his Master of Architecture.Throughout the conversation, Michael reflects on the mentors, risks, and pivotal decisions that shaped his career. He also shares the story behind his transition into healthcare design and how personal experiences with illness and hospitalization fueled a passion for creating environments that positively impact patients, families, and caregivers.Through stories, lessons, and honest reflections, Michael reminds us why communication, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks remain essential to both architecture and life.Tune in for a conversation about resilience, mentorship, healthcare, education, and the power of designing with people at the center of every decision.Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Briana Johnson to explore her winding path from healthcare administration into construction, interiors, and ultimately architecture in Orlando. Briana shares how childhood creativity, collage, and a love of color shaped her design approach; why honest critique and mentorship are essential to growth; and how working across concept, detailing, and construction makes better designers. She opens up about navigating licensure, building resilience through failure, balancing motherhood with a demanding profession, and staying healthy in a sedentary field. We also dive into her community work with AIA, Black Architects in the Making, and Orlando’s Appearance Review Board, plus how she uses platforms like TikTok to educate and connect. This episode is a reminder that there’s no single “right” path in architecture, only the courage to keep designing your own. Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc

On this episode of Studio Nights, we sit down with Peter Hall to explore a career shaped by adaptability and a strong commitment to sustainability. From growing up in the UK to building a career in the U.S., Pete reflects on how his background influenced his path into architecture.We discuss his transition from civil engineering to architecture after more than a decade, his experience teaching at UF CityLab, and how working with students continues to shape his approach to practice. The conversation also dives into sustainability and regenerative design, including biophilia, zero-carbon strategies, and the growing role of mass timber in Florida.Peter also shares insights from his role as a Studio Principal at Little, offering a look into leadership, business development, and the realities of practice beyond school.This episode is a thoughtful conversation about growth, evolution, and designing with intention, along with practical advice for students and emerging professionals navigating their own paths in architecture.Music audio created by @CruzControl.ofc