Jane Lea Architect and Design Advocate

Jane Lea is a highly accomplished architect and design advocate based in New York City. With a passion for civic engagement and a commitment to honoring the contributions of local women, Lea has made a significant impact on the architectural landscape of the city. In this interview with Julia Gamolina, Lea shares her journey from growing up on a farm in Pennsylvania to becoming a licensed architect and founding her own practice. She also discusses the transformative power of architecture, the importance of collaboration, and offers advice to those starting their careers in the field.

Childhood in Pennsylvania

Jane Lea grew up in Berks County, Pennsylvania, on a 90-acre farm alongside her parents and twin sister. As children, Lea and her sister entertained themselves by exploring the outdoors, inventing games, and building various structures from the junk they found in the barn. They were also responsible for a long list of chores, which included tasks like tearing down barbed wire fences and mowing acres of land. This upbringing not only instilled in Lea a strong work ethic but also fostered her love for design and construction.

Immersed in Plans and Construction

Lea’s parents played a significant role in shaping her interest in architecture and design. Her father was originally a home-builder, while her mother worked as an interior designer. Growing up, Lea was exposed to plans and construction projects on a daily basis, which piqued her curiosity and fueled her passion for the field. Additionally, both of her parents were actively involved in the local community, engaging in civic and cultural initiatives. This exposure to civic involvement had a profound impact on Lea and continues to influence her work to this day.

A Fusion of Art and Problem-Solving

During her summers, Lea took art classes and worked as a cook at a camp for individuals with developmental disabilities. These experiences, coupled with her inclination towards problem-solving, led her to consider a career in social work. However, a career aptitude test in high school suggested that Lea would excel as a cartographer. Interestingly, her current career as an architect can be seen as a fusion of art and problem-solving, combining her love for design with her desire to solve real-world challenges.

Education and Professional Experience

After completing her undergraduate studies, Lea pursued a Master of Architecture degree at Columbia University. This educational background provided her with a solid foundation in architectural theory and practice. Following her studies, she gained valuable professional experience by working at various firms in New York City, including Architecture Research Office, where she spent eight years honing her skills.

The All Along Project: Honoring Local Women

As a founding member of Design Advocates, Lea is involved in The All Along Project, which aims to celebrate the contributions of local women by installing markers in New York City’s existing green infrastructure. This project highlights the often-overlooked achievements of women and seeks to create a more inclusive and diverse urban environment. Lea’s involvement in this project exemplifies her commitment to civic engagement and advocacy.

The Transformative Power of Architecture

Lea approaches architecture as a collaborative endeavor, recognizing its transformative power and the potential it holds to shape communities. She believes that every design challenge presents an opportunity for growth and innovation. By embracing this mindset, Lea continually pushes the boundaries of architectural design and seeks to create spaces that inspire and uplift.

Teaching and Mentoring Future Architects

In addition to her practice, Lea has taught at esteemed institutions such as Cooper Union, Parsons, and Pratt. Through her teaching, she aims to pass on her knowledge and inspire the next generation of architects. Lea believes in taking young professionals seriously and encouraging them to pursue their passions with dedication and determination.

Recognition and Awards

Lea’s dedication and talent have not gone unnoticed. She has been awarded a Brunner Grant from the AIA Center for Architecture, recognizing her contributions to the field. This prestigious honor further solidifies Lea’s status as a respected architect and design advocate.

Advice for Emerging Architects

When asked what advice she would give to those starting their careers in architecture, Lea emphasizes the importance of taking oneself seriously. She encourages young professionals to believe in their abilities and to approach every opportunity with confidence and enthusiasm. Lea also stresses the value of learning from all of life’s experiences, as each encounter can provide valuable insights and lessons.

In conclusion, Jane Lea’s journey as an architect and design advocate is a testament to her passion, determination, and commitment to creating a more inclusive and transformative built environment. Through her work, Lea continues to make a significant impact on the architectural landscape of New York City and beyond. Her collaborative approach, civic engagement, and dedication to honoring local women serve as an inspiration to architects and advocates alike.