SHAWNDA RIXEY
CADCO Architects-Engineers,Inc.
SAY IT LOUD - TEXAS Exhibitor
Texas Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
Architects like Richard Meier and Mies van der Rohe for the simplicity of design but yet the beauty it creates. For companies that create the ideal place to work for me are places that support AIA participation, family priorities and great design.
SHAWNDA RIXEY
Bio:
The great architect, Shawnda Rixey, and I am an Architect. I am the first female architect licensed in Abilene, Texas, and the current President of AIA Abilene. I went to college when I was 25 when my children were 1 and 3 years old. During college I was a teaching assistant for many years for history classes. For 3 years I was part of the Texas Tech University Graduate School Dean’s Advisory Council. As part of the council, I would help the graduate school prepare their students for after graduation.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
When I was in 6th grade I had a hand drafting class. Around the same time I started to wonder about all the run down houses and communities and if something could be done.
What do you do?
At CADCO I am an Architect and I deal with office matters. On my projects I design the building and supervise those involved with it. On other projects I work on the 08000 series for the construction drawings and specifications.
What excites you in the work you do?
What excited me about my work is the inspiration that it will bring to those that work in it, learn in it and pass thru it. Architecture helps society in subtle ways by making the places they exist in better for their physical and mental health.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
Architects like Richard Meier and Mies van der Rohe for the simplicity of design but yet the beauty it creates. For companies that create the ideal place to work for me are places that support AIA participation, family priorities and great design.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
I was the first woman in Abilene to get licensed. I participate in AIA so now I am also the first woman AIA Abilene President and when I become the Chapter Director then I will be the first woman Director for AIA Abilene.
Featured Project Name:
FDLIC
Featured Project Location:
Abilene, Texas
Featured Project Completion Date:
Spring 2021
Role in Featured Project:
Project Manager/Architect
Featured Project Description:
FDLIC required more space for their expanding workforce and services provided to their clients. The client wanted to connect the addition and the existing building at two locations; the conference room and the kitchen area. Within these two spaces they wanted to make it feel like there was no disconnect. Another programming aspect was to create break areas for the employees. An open courtyard sits between the existing and the addition while inside there are several areas for seating and games.
