KSQ’s New York Studio Appoints New Associate Principal

We’re proud to announce KSQ Design's newest Associate Principal, Ofé Pearson, AIA, NCARB. She joined KSQ in 2012 as an Architectural Designer. After serving many years as a Senior Project Manager, Ofé has recently been promoted to lead the New York studio.

Her career can be characterized by excellent project management, a commitment to the client experience, and a dedication to build up future architects. As an industry leader, Ofé serves as the Vice President of Emerging Professionals for the New York State AIA Chapter and the Director for the Bronx Chapter of the AIA. In her new role, Ofé oversees the daily operations and activities of the New York studio. She plays a strategic role in developing and implementing the goals, objectives, values, and plans of the firm.

As she steps into this new role, our team sat down with Ofé to reflect on her career, achievements, and what she wants to accomplish in the future.

About Her Journey

Let's go back to the beginning. Why did you want to become an architect?

"It’s quite simple. From a young age, I wanted to live in a home that I designed to my liking and to my taste. As I drove around during my daily travels and flipped through magazines, I noticed countless architectural styles." Ofé said.

"I started to realize that the possibilities in architecture were endless. If I could think of it, I could design it and someday build it."

Is a career in architecture what you expected it to be? If not, how has it been different?

"Yes and no. What I couldn’t foresee in my younger years was how the path I would take would be different than what I had envisioned.

What I mean by that is, typically your introduction to architecture and even your education focuses heavily on design. That is where I thought life was going to lead. Fast forward to today, design remains a constant thought, yet my time is primarily focused on leadership, management, team building, and strategic planning."

What has been the biggest challenge in your career as an architect?

"Navigating the field and commanding respect as a woman. I am knowledgeable in this field, but demonstrating it is necessary to be taken seriously. This is a step others didn't have to take simply because they are male."

What has been your most significant achievement as an architect?

"It’s a journey that I’m on, so all wins are merely goals achieved for that season of life. I don’t consider any achievement more significant than the other. However, in this season I would consider this promotion my most significant achievement."

Is there anyone you look to for advice or inspiration in the field?

“I wouldn’t say there is one particular person I look to for advice or inspiration. I have colleagues, (some of whom have become friends in the field) of various age groups and skill sets. It is comforting to know I can flip through my Rolodex for advice, inspiration, or even guidance."

Looking Forward

Do you have a certain leadership philosophy you follow?

"'Through difficulties to excellence.' Architecture is a team-oriented field. It’s important to me that everyone I lead knows that we are a team. I’ve got their back, and we can be successful but only if we only work together.

What are you most excited about stepping into this new role?

"It’s most exciting, simply because it’s something new. Who doesn’t like new adventures? The opportunities that come with this role give me more of a voice. I have a seat at the table now, with the superintendence in making decisions and implementing them."

Is there anything you would like to achieve in the coming months?

"I hope to be able to streamline the production of the documents. I also hope to improve the skillsets in some facet of each personnel in the office. Everyone should be learning, growing, and advancing in their own right and I want to be able to help with that."

What advice would you give to someone who wants to advance in the field of architecture?

"Keep pushing. Have a clear goal on what you ultimately want to achieve. Then, make the moves and have the conversation with the relevant parties who can help in your trajectory. But know the journey doesn’t get easier as you advance."

Closing Remarks from a Managing Principal

We are excited to have Ofé work alongside Managing Principal, Armand Quadrini, to lead our New York Studio. Ofé brings a level of insight, collaboration, and resolve that helps ensure successful outcomes for our clients and our team. Her proactive communication style and dedication to developing sensible policies brings assurance that both our team and clients can value and trust. To this day, Ofé relentlessly chases her dream of helping shape the built environment through beautiful yet functional architecture.