PETER D. COOK
HGA
African American AIA Fellow
SAY IT LOUD - NOMA 50th Exhibition
SAY IT LOUD - WASHINGTON DC Exhibitor
Washington DC Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
My mentor, Max Bond, said “If an architect says, ‘I and I alone created this’, don’t believe it”. Architecture is made possible by a team of clients, young and seasoned colleagues alike, consultants, and contractors. These collaborations inspire me.
PETER D. COOK
Bio:
The great architect, Peter Cook, AIA, NOMA is a Design Principal with HGA in Washington, DC. Recognized nationally for design excellence, Peter is responsible for the design of high-profile projects for arts, community, and educational institutions. A descendant of Julian Abele, one of the country’s most gifted architects, Peter is a graduate of Harvard University and Columbia University’s GSAPP and is the recipient of numerous awards including ones from the AIA, Chicago Athenaeum, and the Urban Land Institute.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
As a descendant of one of the greatest architects of the U.S. (Julian F. Abele) and the grandson of a Howard University Building Coordinator/Asst. Campus Architect (Julian A. Cook Sr.), my exposure and interest in architecture began in my childhood.
What do you do?
I am an architect who creates common ground through uncommon design—memorable, lasting places informed by site, context, program, and most importantly, by the people who live, work, and engage with those places.
What excites you in the work you do?
Engaging cultural and community organizations. Educating young minds. Creating art-filled spaces. It’s that power of design to positively impact lives and leave people with a growing sense of wonder that continues to excite and inspire me in my work.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
My mentor, Max Bond, said “If an architect says, ‘I and I alone created this’, don’t believe it”. Architecture is made possible by a team of clients, young and seasoned colleagues alike, consultants, and contractors. These collaborations inspire me.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
The eagerness of a kid waiting to get into Shaw Library. People swaying to music at Gateway DC. The awe on faces as they enter the NMAAHC. Watching voters at the South African Embassy. It’s the impact of my work on people’s lives that gives me pride.
Featured Project Name:
DC Public Library, Lamond-Riggs Neighborhood Library
Featured Project Location:
Washington, DC
Featured Project Completion Date:
Expected late 2021
Role in Featured Project:
Design Principal
Featured Project Description:
With a unique building program developed with library staff and the community, the DCPL Lamond Riggs Library will—upon completion—serve the needs and goals of a changing community. Located in a quiet neighborhood far from downtown DC, the new two-story, 23,500 SF library responds to its evolving contexts, and reflects the community’s aspirations for a welcoming and light-filled environment that serves as a place for learning and for embracing the neighborhood’s storied history.
