RACHEL WRIGHT
Ford, Powell & Carson, Architects & Planners, Inc.
SAY IT LOUD - TEXAS Exhibitor
Texas Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I was lucky to begin my career under the guidance of renowned preservationist and architect Carolyn Peterson. Her mentorship and experience inspire me to carry on the work of preserving important places for future generations to experience.
RACHEL WRIGHT
Bio:
The great designer, Rachel Wright is an architect and preservationist at Ford, Powell, and Carson, where she began her career under the guidance of Carolyn Peterson, FAIA. She has worked with Allison Chambers for over a decade, restoring some of south Texas' most venerated historic buildings. A native Texan, Rachel is a graduate of the University of Texas, and has a master’s degree in preservation from Columbia University.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I knew early that I wanted to be an architect, but my interest in the built environment really took off after being exposed to historic preservation. I am passionate about integrating context – historic, environmental, social – into projects.
What do you do?
I am an architect and preservationist, and I affectionately call myself a “building-whisperer.” My favorite way to work is acting as a project architect although I wear many hats.
What excites you in the work you do?
Discovering the past! There’s nothing more fun than uncovering a forgotten fresco or ornate plaster ceiling. And then I get to take those things, combine them with a modern program/systems, and breathe new life into the buildings.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I was lucky to begin my career under the guidance of renowned preservationist and architect Carolyn Peterson. Her mentorship and experience inspire me to carry on the work of preserving important places for future generations to experience.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
I have had the opportunity to work on some of the most iconic historic buildings in south Texas – the San Antonio Missions and Alamo, the Governor’s Mansion, the Texas State Capitol, and San Antonio’s City Hall.
Featured Project Name:
San Antonio City Hall Renovation
Featured Project Location:
San Antonio, Texas
Featured Project Completion Date:
May 2021
Role in Featured Project:
Project Architect
Featured Project Description:
FPC just completed a full renovation of San Antonio’s City Hall (1892). Alterations over the years obscured the historic floor plan and finishes. We peeled back the layers, restoring and exposing historic finishes throughout the building. The project integrated new systems with the historic fabric, and is set to be LEED Silver. The focus for the project was “City Hall for All,” reflected in its new accessible entrance (by Beaty Palmer), open public spaces, and views of local landmarks.
