NICOLA MICHELLE JOHNSON
Arconial Architecture, LLC
SAY IT LOUD - FLORIDA Exhibitor
Florida Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I’m inspired by the possibility of ‘what if’. I construct/ deconstruct the built environment to it’s basic elements. If design appears awkward, I visualize reconstructing those elements into something new. I image myself as a designer in the Matrix.
NICOLA MICHELLE JOHNSON
Bio:
Arconial Architecture, LLC is a African-American, woman-owned architectural firm in Tampa, Fl. The firm strives to capture our clients vision and enhance the quality of the built environment through design that is economically feasible, environmentally responsible, and elegant. Within 10 years, and under the guidance of owner and architect, Nicola Johnson, the firm has completed over $4 million
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
My senior year of high school at a magnet art high school. I didn't intend to be a graphic designer. A college recruiter encourage me to apply to architecture.
What do you do?
I am an architect by day. A want-to-be Olympic weight lifter by night. Aspiring marathoner on weekends. l am a visionary who enjoys transforming blank spaces, dead and decaying spaces into re-imagined backdrops for the living.
What excites you in the work you do?
I’m most excited about inspiring my clients to expand their expectation. I encourage them to envision the quality of life they want to live; to not be limited to images in magazines. Homes are as unique as a fingerprint; no two are every the same.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I’m inspired by the possibility of ‘what if’. I construct/ deconstruct the built environment to it’s basic elements. If design appears awkward, I visualize reconstructing those elements into something new. I image myself as a designer in the Matrix.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
My proudest professional accomplishment is not just surviving, but thriving in business as an architect for 10 years. When I started my company back in 2013, I was looking for creative freedom. I took a leap of faith to live my dream.
Featured Project Name:
Commerce Park Deuces Rising Townhomes
Featured Project Location:
Tampa, FL
Featured Project Completion Date:
On Going
Role in Featured Project:
Architect
Featured Project Description:
The new 6-bldg., 24 units public-private collaboration project is historically significant epi-center for the African-American Residence of the 22nd Street South area referred to as "The Deuces". The project aims to address the growing demand for affordable housing in the City of St. Petersburg. The design site is the first of many in a revitalization of the area that reflects well-defined street edges, attractive building aesthetics, and green space that encourages organic social interaction.
