Studio Southwest Architects: Where Architecture Meets Sustainability and Purpose
Imagine a career where your creative talents blend seamlessly with technical expertise, where every project holds the potential to shape lives and communities, and where collaboration and support fuel your professional growth. This is the reality for architects and team members at Studio Southwest Architects (Studio SW), a firm dedicated not only to sustainable design but also to fostering a positive and empowering work environment.
In our conversation with Steven Mattern, an architect with eight years of tenure at the firm, we gained insight into what sets Studio SW apart as an excellent workplace for career advancement. Unlike his past experiences in the industry, characterized by a rigid environment that hindered creativity, Steven discovered a welcoming and encouraging culture at Studio SW. The leaders are accessible and down-to-earth, emphasizing teamwork and transparent communication. The firm’s commitment to professional growth is apparent through its generous backing of licensing exams and continuous learning initiatives.
But Studio SW isn’t just about a feel-good atmosphere; it’s also a firm at the forefront of sustainability and innovation.
Signed on to the ambitious AIA 2030 Commitment, the team is actively driving energy use down to zero in their designs, pushing boundaries, and setting a new standard for responsible architecture. This dedication to the environment resonates with Steven, who finds satisfaction in creating spaces that not only inspire but are also clear-eyed about architecture’s role in the future we’re rapidly entering.
The projects themselves are diverse and engaging, ranging from high-profile educational institutions like the New Mexico School for the Arts and the Albuquerque Biopark’s Australia exhibit to the innovative Explora X Studio – a STEAM learning space for New Mexico teens. Each project presents unique challenges and opportunities, allowing Steven and his team to constantly learn and evolve their skills. The sense of purpose and impact in these projects is palpable, fueling the team’s passion and dedication.
Beyond the technical aspects, Steven highlights the human-centric approach that defines Studio SW’s work. Architecture, he reminds us, is about “shaping the spaces we inhabit, influencing our moods, health, and even the way we interact with each other.” The responsibility architects hold is immense and Studio SW empowers its team to take this responsibility seriously, designing spaces that not only function but also nurture and inspire.
If you’re an architect, intern architect, or architectural project manager seeking a career that’s more than just drafting and deadlines and a workplace where your skills are valued, your voice is heard, and your passion for creating a better future is shared, then Studio SW might just be your perfect fit. As a company, we are committed to cutting-edge design, environmental responsibility, and a positive work culture. We believe in a future where architecture is not just about buildings, but about building a better world.
– Inspired by our conversation with Steven Mattern, Architect at Studio Southwest Architects
