NICKI MARRONE
Alamo Architects
SAY IT LOUD - TEXAS Exhibitor
Texas Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I am inspired when I see young women – whether emerging professionals in the field or kids at an elementary school career day - really strive to develop their creativity, work ethic, and knowledge.
NICKI MARRONE
Bio:
The great designer, Nicki Marrone, AIA, LEED AP BD+C is a Principal at Alamo Architects where she leads the K-12 studio. She has a Bachelor of Architecture from Rice University and is a registered architect in Texas. She served as AIA San Antonio’s chapter president in 2015, and now sits on the Texas Society of Architects Board of Directors, previously chairing TxA’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Taskforce. She often contributes to mentoring and career day events to show youth how architecture impacts everyone.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I loved making things when I was little: dollhouses, furniture – from any materials available. Taking a drafting class later in high school, I was not unaware I was the only girl. Nevertheless, it seemed natural to follow this path and keep making.
What do you do?
I am a Principal with Alamo Architects and lead our K-12 studio. I run many operations of the firm and direct our Justice through Design group, a collective looking to inspire and build equitable environments in our surrounding communities.
What excites you in the work you do?
Educational work makes our profession accessible to everyone. Architecture doesn’t always offer thanks, but when it is understood - seeing kids’ faces light up walking through a bright hallway, or running through a learning garden, it’s pretty cool.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I am inspired when I see young women – whether emerging professionals in the field or kids at an elementary school career day - really strive to develop their creativity, work ethic, and knowledge.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
Years ago, I was responsible for our firm’s LEED submittal when renovating our building. I had the knowledge but had not attempted the process on my own. After months of work, we received our Silver Certification, one of few in the city at the time.
Featured Project Name:
Sonia Sotomayor High School
Featured Project Location:
San Antonio, TX
Featured Project Completion Date:
August 2022
Role in Featured Project:
Project Manager & Project Architect
Featured Project Description:
Northside ISD’s 12th comprehensive high school opens in 2022 for 2800 students. The 432,000 sq ft building is on a 70-acre site and includes athletic fields and gardens. It is organized around two courtyards for learning and recreation; the interior circulation revolves around a three-story daylit stair. Anchoring the building are athletic facilities on one side and an auditorium on the other; programs included are fine arts, science, and career/tech such as culinary arts and alternative energy.
