DARREL J. WILLIAMS
Neighboring Concepts, FAIA
African American AIA Fellow
SAY IT LOUD - North Carolina Exhibitor
SAY IT LOUD - Washington DC Exhibitor
North Carolina Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I’m inspired mostly by Black Architects who have come before me, what they had to endure during some very challenging times, while also paving the way for others like me to be successful in an often challenging (white male) profession.
DARREL J. WILLIAMS
Bio:
The great architect, Darrel Williams, has spent over a quarter-century demonstrating that architecture can transform communities socially and physically, with a focus on community and urban context, not simply the buildings. His passion is not just the power of award-winning design, but the importance of truly engaging people and communities. His leadership over decades has improved the Charlotte region for all, particularly those traditionally left out of the design process.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I stumbled into the profession. Although I had taken drawing classes in high school and my grandfather and father were brick masons, I wasn’t aware of the profession until after High School. Upon research, I knew I was destined to be an architect.
What do you do?
As co-founder, principal and leader of the firm, my responsibility is overall firm management, business development and marketing.
What excites you in the work you do?
Utilizing the profession to help transform challenged urban communities through inclusive engagement, thoughtful design and responsible planning. Ensuring the less-fortunate that they have a voice to influence change for their community.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I’m inspired mostly by Black Architects who have come before me, what they had to endure during some very challenging times, while also paving the way for others like me to be successful in an often challenging (white male) profession.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
Building Neighboring Concepts from nothing, seeing it thrive after 25 years with a diverse group of dedicated professionals who are as passionate as I am about positively impacting people and communities, socially, economically, and environmentally.
Object:
Object Four - Public service, government, industry, or organization
Year of Elevation:
2006
Featured Project Name:
The Renaissance Masterplan & LEED Neighborhood Development
Featured Project Location:
Charlotte, NC
Featured Project Completion Date:
2016
Role in Featured Project:
Managing Principal
Featured Project Description:
The Renaissance LEED Neighborhood Development is a multi-generational community of 334 mixed-income attached, apartment and walk-up dwellings, a senior housing facility, K-8 STEAM school, child development center, community center, neighborhood park, play spaces and other open areas. The Masterplan plan is thoughtfully located near major employment centers, a recreation center, and higher education and vocational institutions.
Photography Credit:
1-4 Snapwerx, 5 Sean Busher Photography, all Owned by Neighboring Concepts
Featured Project Name:
Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Projects
Featured Project Location:
Charlotte, NC
Featured Project Completion Date:
2002 - present
Role in Featured Project:
Managing Principal
Featured Project Description:
Over the past 19 years, Neighboring Concepts has collaborated with various design teams that to meet the varying transportation design needs of Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) on projects such as the Charlotte Historic Trolley stations, South Corridor Light Rail stations, station area plans, the CityLYNX Gold Line Corridor Streetcar line, CityLYNX Blue Line Extension Parking decks, various Park and Ride facilities, and preliminary engineering plans for the Silver Line.
