JAMES GARRETT JR.
4RM+ULA
SAY IT LOUD - Minnesota Exhibitor
SAY IT LOUD - NOMA 50th Exhibition
Minnesota Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I am inspired by great design, visual art, and music--from Bebop to Hip Hop. I aspire to the Charles Mingus philosophy of simplicity; “Anyone can make the simple complicated. Creativity is making the complicated simple.”
JAMES GARRETT JR.
Bio:
The Great architect, James Garrett Jr., AIA, creates dynamic spaces for the 21st century that demonstrate a commitment to diversity and equity in the profession. A visual artist and writer who was formally trained as an architect, he gives voice to underserved communities and is deeply invested in the human experience. Growing up in the post industrial era that gave rise to hip-hop culture and graffiti writing, he has made it his mission to reconnect art and architecture.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I aspired to be an architect since my earliest memories of playing with LEGOs as a child. I have always been interested in cities and the diverse populations that inhabit them.
What do you do?
As a small firm owner, I wear many proverbial hats. I am a licensed architect, a project designer, and lead the marketing / promotional efforts of the company.
What excites you in the work you do?
I love all things art and design related. I take great pride in my creative problem-solving abilities. It excites me to make construction site visits and see building we’ve designed begin to take form.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I am inspired by great design, visual art, and music--from Bebop to Hip Hop. I aspire to the Charles Mingus philosophy of simplicity; “Anyone can make the simple complicated. Creativity is making the complicated simple.”
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
My proudest professional accomplishment was being awarded the AIA MN Gold Medal award with my business partner, Nathan Johnson, AIA, NOMA.
Featured Project Name:
Great River Landing
Featured Project Location:
Minneapolis, MN
Featured Project Completion Date:
2019
Role in Featured Project:
Design Architect, Signing Architect
Featured Project Description:
Committed to creating maximum value for stakeholders and end-users. The Great River Landing project is a prime example of creating value through purposeful design. More than a housing development in the North Loop, it is a place of stability for people committed to positive change after recovering from the traumas of unemployment, homelessness, and incarceration. Designed for 72 adult men, the residences support tenants on their journey toward successful reintegration into society.
