What is your name, current location, and current occupation?
Charlotte Matthai! I live in Los Angeles and work at a firm called Architectural Resources Group.
What was your affiliation with MIT?
I completed my MArch in 2022.
What was your thesis title, if you completed one?
I collaborated with Ryan Clement on our thesis: “Bernini Started It”
What are you doing today?
I work at a firm that specializes in preservation architecture, so my coworkers are architects, urban planners, and conservators. I didn’t have a lot of experience with preservation when I started, but I love working with existing buildings. They have so much character, I find the kinds of problem solving they require really exciting, and adaptive reuse has a much lower carbon impact.
Do you think your career path has been unorthodox or nontraditional?
I studied political science and art history in undergrad and then worked as a cheesemonger before starting my MArch, so my path to MIT was slightly nontraditional but has become more linear as I’ve figured out my interests. I’m currently pursuing licensure and am enjoying learning the weeds of how a building actually comes together.
How did your time at MIT affect your career path?
I appreciated MIT’s somewhat experimental approach towards architecture (I also sometimes found it difficult…). My thesis with Ryan was definitely on the edge of what many would consider “Architecture” and I loved that we had the flexibility and freedom to explore. But I most valued the people. My classmates were/are inspirational and driven. I also worked for Miho at the Urban Risk Lab and had amazing mentors there.
What are you excited about in your career field today?
Conversations on equitable compensation and working conditions.
What is advice you would give to a new alum coming out of MIT?
Come to LA! :)
What are you trying to learn right now?
Construction details. Also boxing.
How can fellow alums reach you if they want to speak further?
Reach out to me on instagram @thecheeselorax