VMDO Architects

Kristen joined VMDO in 2018. She comes to Charlottesville by way of New Orleans where she earned her Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Architecture through a 5-year integrated program from Tulane University. Previous to joining VMDO, Kristen collaborated with teachers and designers on water science and design curriculum planning and teacher training with Ripple Effect Water Literacy Project. Her enduring passion for education and hands-on work with teachers and students makes her feel right at home in the K-12 studio.

Kristen's background in design thinking brings an empathetic, iterative, human-centered lens to the design process. While living in New Orleans, she became fascinated by the interwoven natural and urban landscapes of the deltaic plain contrasted with the urbanized city. A lifelong learner, she pursued research relating to coastal and urban resilience, water infrastructure and community engagement both in the gulf south and abroad in the Netherlands.