OMAR BAILEY
Shepley Bulfinch
SAY IT LOUD - ARIZONA Exhibitor
Arizona Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
My daughters. I believe the action we take in the present can create better opportunities for future generations. When designing buildings, I ask myself: would my daughters want to live here? Would they be proud of what we’ve built?
OMAR BAILEY
Bio:
In 23 years of architectural practice, Omar Bailey has designed housing, adaptive reuse, education, and healthcare community projects in urban landscapes across the country. He encourages clients and colleagues to look at the bigger picture, understanding how public spaces can improve the connectivity to a community. His focus on community impact has been instrumental in conversations with developers where teams strategize the design and consider how buildings help strengthen communities.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
Growing up in New York City, I’d accompany my uncle, a photographer, to work. As my uncle would set up his equipment, I would sit and sketch. My uncle encouraged me to follow that joy and explore studying architecture.
What do you do?
I'm an architect working primarily on urban development projects. I encourage clients and colleagues to look at the bigger picture, understanding how public spaces can give a sense of self to an area, increasing activity and vibrancy.
What excites you in the work you do?
I like to create spaces where people can make a difference. As the industry moves forward, I want to be part of how architecture can impact the building, giving back to communities and opening people's eyes.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
My daughters. I believe the action we take in the present can create better opportunities for future generations. When designing buildings, I ask myself: would my daughters want to live here? Would they be proud of what we’ve built?
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
Getting licensed. I set aside 6 months to dedicate to exam preparation, structuring a process to ensure I finished and absorbed everything I could learn about the practice.
Featured Project Name:
Moontower
Featured Project Location:
Phoenix, Arizona
Featured Project Completion Date:
8/31/2023
Role in Featured Project:
Project Manager
Featured Project Description:
Moontower is 24-story residential tower overlapping the southern edge of the Roosevelt Row Art District. With 326 units and boutique amenities, the project serves as an extension of the active neighborhood. Designed to LEED Silver standards and working within the City of Phoenix’s Walkable Urban Code and Sustainability Bonus System, the project incorporates well-lit shaded pedestrian areas and permanent public art installations.
