Bio:

The great architect,  Tenna finds purpose in creating architecture that promotes environmental stewardship through high performance design that strengthens the essential bond between humans and nature. With over 20 years of experience, Tenna has proved to be a skilled listener and collaborator. Tenna has been integral in developing green initiatives for Lake|Flato and the City of San Antonio, and her passion for innovative sustainable design has led to several award winning projects.

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How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?

In middle school I started drawing homes and floor plans. I had an art teacher that saw my interests and encouraged me to become an architect. Once I learned what architects get to do for a living, I was hooked and never looked back.

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What do you do?

I am an architect focused on highly sustainable, public projects that connect people to nature and place.

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What excites you in the work you do?

I’m excited when a building or project’s purpose goes beyond the bounds of the project site and has a broader impact on the community it serves.

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Who or what inspires you professionally?

For the type of work I do, many times it’s the clients that inspire me to create a building that reinforces the mission of their organization.

 

What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

I’m proud of leading the Josey Pavilion project, which serves as an educational venue for the Dixon Water Foundation to teach ecological stewardship and is a fully restorative building, the first in Texas to achieve Living Building Certification.

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Featured Project Name: 

The Betty and Clint Josey Pavilion

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Featured Project Location: 

Decatur, Texas

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Featured Project Completion Date: 

2014

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Role in Featured Project: 

Principal-in-Charge and Lead Designer

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Featured Project Description:

The Betty & Clint Josey Pavilion is the first Living Building Challenge certified project in the State of Texas. The Living Building Challenge is a rigorous certification program that advocates for a fully restorative building. The 5,400 square foot pavilion is a meeting and education center that serves as a demonstration site for the Dixon Water Foundation, whose mission is to promote healthy watersheds through sustainable land management to ensure the preservation of our water resources.

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Photography Credit:

Casey Dunn