“Behind the Screens” is a new series developed by AIA Chicago’s Editorial Advisory Committee to highlight the members of the chapter. Throughout the year, the series will showcase Fellows, Architects, Associates, and Affiliate members.
Name: Krystofer Pinnock
Affiliations/Credentials: Assoc. AIA, NOMA, LEED AP BD+C
Title: Designer II
Company: Perkins&Will
Degree: B.S. Architectural Preservation and M.Arch from Temple University
AIA Chicago involvement: AIA Bridge Mentorship Program
What advice would you give to a younger version of yourself?
I’d tell younger Krys to remain confident in who you are as a person, what your gifts are, and what you have the potential to become. Cast aside any fears and realize that worrying won’t add any more time to your day. In full transparency, these are things I still tell myself from time to time, but I draw from past accomplishments to help push me along in my life journey. So many of us (me included) have had to contend with imposter syndrome or other forms of trepidation only to realize that we possess unique skills, perspectives, and offerings that validate us in ways that no one else can. Through my involvement in I-NOMA (Illinois Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects) and the ACE (Architecture, Construction, Engineering) Mentor Program, I’ve been gifted with the opportunity to speak and mentor to a wide variety of students, and I always share with them the importance of being themselves and exuding confidence in all that they do.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I wake up, thank God for another day, and depending on how cold it is outside, I roll back into bed for a few more minutes. Many of the things I seek to accomplish, (long term and short term) are already buzzing through my head as I head out the door. I’d say no day is typical, deliverables and needs can vary, but for the most part I check my emails and game plan what work I have to complete and how to do so in a timely and effective manner. A day could include tackling client meetings, working on drawing sets, or completing submittal reviews (all sustained by a LaCroix break or two). I have the esteemed pleasure of working with a great team at Perkins&Will – where I work primarily on K-12 projects, including Evanston and Proviso Township High Schools. I find great reward in the opportunity to revitalize, enhance, and bring to life the structures that house our future generations of learners and thinkers. Just recently, I wrapped up construction administration on an affordable housing project, Broadview Legacy Apartments, where I was involved in weekly on-site OAC meetings and construction walk-throughs. This project was worthwhile as it serves as a step towards combatting homelessness in the Chicagoland area.
Work aside, I’m a major proponent for maintaining one’s mental health, and I seek to find balance between work and life. After work I’m usually hitting the gym, completing an art piece, or simply taking time to debrief and be present with loved ones. Studying for the ARE exams has also become a major part of my days as well, and though at times cumbersome, it has been an enriching experience overall. I’ve found joy in being able to refine and add to my knowledge base, all while bringing the realization of licensure closer and closer.
What are you currently working towards that excites you?
I’d say that the aspirations and goals that I’ve set out to accomplish for myself keep me excited. Every milestone and achievement that I journey towards keeps me motivated daily. As I mentioned previously, I’m working towards becoming licensed, and ultimately becoming an architect that can create a positive impact in society. I am also deeply passionate about art and I’m currently finding great fulfillment in several pieces that I’m working on. Art has provided me with an exhilarating outlet that I can freely express myself without having to align with any set of rules or parameters. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to be a part of art shows from New York to Tokyo, and I ultimately want to grow as both an artist and architect. The thought of one day having my art adorn a building that I’ve also worked on keeps me moving forward with great ambition. One of my goals is to one day have my own art gallery and architecture studio, finding synthesis with the two. As I continue to grow, I undoubtedly will see these goals come to fruition as I work feverishly towards them.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity to me details an even playing field, and an opportunity to access and tap into the resources needed for success, regardless of one’s status. It’s essentially a seat at the table for all, understanding that some can readily pull up a chair, while some may need a booster seat, or some don’t need a chair at all. Much of what I strive to do in my everyday life is to empower the next generation and others who look like me, whether directly or indirectly. Involvement in organizations such as I-NOMA or my office’s JEDI team has really helped me make an impact throughout this field both professionally and on a wider scale. In addition to my role as Parliamentarian of the I-NOMA chapter, I serve as Co-Lead for our Project Pipeline Committee, a summer camp tasked with introducing middle school students in Chicago to the design profession to promote diversity in the architecture field. I find initiatives such as this to be greatly fulfilling – as this not only gives minority youth a productive learning experience during the summer – but it plants the seed of a potential career path for the future.
What is one actionable way that young designers can positively impact climate change in their firms?
I’d say education for starters. Many of the barriers surrounding climate change stem from varying degrees of ignorance on the matter. I’d say we, as young designers, can positively impact climate change by actively learning about its associated detriments and ways to reverse them. Educating ourselves on sustainable practices and undoing a lot of habits we’ve grown accustomed to is paramount. That said, I also think being a young designer should be viewed positively. It allows for a degree of open-mindedness and unique perspectives commonly attributed to a younger demographic. By coupling this imaginative and youthful perspective with newly gained knowledge, different ideas and practices can be provided to our offices for consideration. Whether they are design decisions, material choices, or even office-wide waste management practices, they can serve as a step in the right direction.
What change would you like to see in Chicago’s built environment?
To be honest, the driving force behind me moving to Chicago was actually its built environment, in conjunction with its natural environment of course. My first visit was in 2018 for spring break (I know, crazy) and was instantly captivated by the way the city seemed to harmoniously link built and natural elements, in areas such as the Lakefront Trail. As a northeastern native, I didn’t even know that Chicago had a beach to be honest. After being here five years, albeit disrupted by the pandemic, I’ve gotten a good grasp on the city’s layout, and would have to say that the biggest thing I’d like to see change is the disparity between the development of certain areas and others. Specifically, the west and south side contrast with the north side. I know there are varying factors at play (political, social, geographic, etc.) but it would be great if the same elements of Chicago that I find captivating, were accessible to all and that efforts for enhanced connectivity and renewal were continued.
What’s been the most rewarding aspect of your membership in this organization?
Being a part of AIA Chicago Bridge mentorship program! This program gave me the opportunity to meet with extremely insightful and inspiring individuals. I’ve been able to glean invaluable information and feedback that I will continue to use throughout my life and career.
