Bio:

The great architect,  Vershae Hite, a licensed architect and Associate at Vines Architecture, received her BArch from UNC Charlotte and MArch from University of Westminster. Coupled with experience from the Freelon Group and Perkins&Will, her portfolio is characterized by cultural, historic renovations, libraries and university work. The deep-rooted meanings in her work are extensions of crafted, honest stories - a result of her sensitivity to diverse social cultural landscapes, and an investigative design process.

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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?

I instinctively sought corners in rooms; being separate yet visually connected. I surveilled how thoughtfully crafted design elevated ordinary life - a dynamic relationship yielding powerful narra- tives. At 10, I asked my mom about architecture.

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What do you do?

I am an Architect, Project Manager, and Associate at Vines Architecture; Chair of AIA Triangle Design Awards; Co-Chair of AIAT Women in Architecture; Visiting Faculty at NC State University; and serve on the Raleigh Historic Development Commis- sion.

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What excites you in the work you do?

Storytelling through design. In graduate school, I focused on inclusivity that necessitated spaces to unearth multiple cultural histories. In practice, I am honored to lead projects that pointedly cele- brate diverse communities.

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Who or what inspires you professionally?

The clients (a.k.a. superheroes) I have the honor to serve. From bioethicists to educators, clients are dedicated to positioning their organizations for sustained, positive community impact, and doing the bona fide work of propelling society forward.

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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

Securing my first full-time position at the Freelon Group laid the groundwork for unwavering design excellence and passion for the community. My experience there helped secure my path to be- come one of the first 400 black female architects in the US.

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Featured Project Name: 

Emily Krzyzewski Center Expansion

 

Featured Project Location: 

Durham, North Carolina

 

Featured Project Completion Date: 

May 2021

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Role in Featured Project: 

Project Manager/Designer

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Featured Project Description:

The Emily Krzyzewski Center Expansion will host students and support programs through active learning spaces. Focused on flexibility and longevity, this College-Access-Hub will continue to distinguish itself by serving first-generation college students and their families in the Durham North Carolina Community while being a contributing partner to the neighboring church and schools. New spaces are designed to better suit contemporary ways of teaching and learning for students 1st to 12th grades.

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Photography Credit:

Vines Architecture

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Featured Project Name: 

Gregg Museum of Art and Design

 

Featured Project Location: 

Raleigh, North Carolina

 

Featured Project Completion Date: 

2017

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Role in Featured Project: 

Architect (at The Freelon Group/Perkins & Will)

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Featured Project Description:

The Gregg Museum of Art and Design, an addition and full renovation of the 1928 Georgian-style Chancellor’s Residence, houses NC State University’s rich collection of art. Inspired by quilting patterns within the collection, the design is a collection of interior and exterior galleries stitched together through spatial connections. Together, the Museum and the renovated Residence provide a major, new gateway to the campus and cultural bridge between the University and greater arts community.

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Photography Credit:

Mark Herboth Photography

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