Architect Maddie Laberge values balanced architecture and observation of the cities around her. This month, we sat down with Maddie to learn about why she became an architect and her favorite buildings and architect.
Q: What inspired you to become an architect?
I grew up loving art in all forms, while watching my dad and grandpa work together as civil engineers. When I started thinking about going to college, I knew engineering was too technical for me and found that Architecture has a good balance of artistic and technical. The blend of critical problem solving and designing something tangible really interested me.
Q: If you could give advice to a young designer, what would you say?
Always look up – when you’re walking around a new city, your hometown or while on vacation. There’s so much to absorb from the environment and people around you that sometimes you miss remarkable things focusing on eye level. Observe everything that you can. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Q: Do you have any guiding design principles in your process?
Balanced, functional design with a connection to daylight and nature. Ultimately, we are designing for the end user and they need to feel comfortable in a space for it to be truly successful.
Q: What have been some of your career highlights/proudest achievements so far?
Becoming licensed was the most recent achievement that I am proud of.
In addition, seeing and working on my first project in the field really opened my eyes to the reality of what we do every day. Not only was it helpful in teaching me the technical aspects but it really gave me a drive to keep pursuing a career in this field.
Q: Do you have a favorite city to visit for architecture?

As someone who loves to explore a new place on foot, I don’t necessarily have a favorite city, just looking forward to the next trip. I do love a city that has a range of architectural styles (San Francisco, Chicago…Boston) so that there’s always more to see and a new neighborhood to explore.
Q: Do you have a favorite building or perhaps a favorite architect?


Hard to choose, but one building I walk by everyday on my way to the office is Paul Rudoplh’s Government Services Center. Something about the tangibility of the concrete curves and the unusual site plan catches my eye each time. It will be interesting to see what the City of Boston will transform this building into next.