News

AIA Central New Jersey Spotlight on Members

Simon Signorelli, AIA

A Champion of the Profession and its Members

Hello and thank you for reading our Member Spotlight Series.  AIA Central is proud of its members who have impacted the profession through both the legacy they are leaving as well as uplifting others.  

We would like to share with you a spotlight on Simone Signorelli, AIA. Simone has been a steady and active member of the AIA Central New Jersey Section for many years, and a constant support and champion to fellow members. Known for her kind and subtle tone, Simone has been nominated and accepted to the American Institute of Architects New Jersey as a state-level Trustee, Women in Architecture Committee member and is actively supporting AIA Central on the Design Awards Committee. Simone is a valued member of the professional community. 

Here are some of the questions she answered for us: 

Q1. Where do you find (or seek) design inspiration?  

Everywhere I go I am always observant of how the built space makes me feel and how my senses respond to the interior and exterior environment. What components do I like about the architecture? What would I modify to make it a more comfortable or a more functional space?  I am always drawn to buildings that merge well and take advantage of their surroundings. When I approach a new project, I try to recall the elements that brought me the most joy. Working closely with the end users also inspires me to design a space that they are excited to occupy.  

Q2. What part of the design process (from pre-design through construction) do you enjoy the most?   

Design development has always been my favorite part of the process. Building a relationship with the client, discussing their needs, and gathering input from them that will later translate to their ideal space is extremely rewarding. Creating a design that incorporates their criteria is like assembling puzzle pieces and generating a unique and effective solution.   

Q3. How do you stay relevant in an ever-changing profession?  

I take advantage of any opportunity for professional development, to educate myself on new materials, emerging codes, new techniques, and innovative development.   

Q4. How has being involved with the AIA impacted you personally, and professionally?   

Being an AIA member has helped me to stay engaged with my professional community and gives me a chance to discuss current projects and current trends with others. Membership offers me professional networking opportunities with like-minded individuals. The AIA also grants me access to unique service -provider seminars and private building tours that help me expand my knowledge and understanding of Architecture. I particularly like being an active part of the internal workings of the AIA, where many decisions are being made impacting our profession. Being able to provide input and insight into topics, committees and initiatives is an important part of being an AIA Trustee, and Section Member.   

Q5. What are your thoughts on mentoring or being mentored?   

Being surrounded by a positive nurturing environment gave me confidence to take on new challenges. My most successful mentor relationships have led me out of my comfort zone and forced me to grow both personally and professionally. I had mentors that were respectful to me as an emerging professional, and I take that attitude with me when I mentor others.  

Q.6 What skills have you developed in your architectural journey that you have been able to apply to other aspects of your life?  

There are so many skills that I have acquired and life lessons that I have learned along my architectural journey. As far back as Architecture school, I had to practice time management balancing the demands of design studio with every other class. Professionally, I had to learn to manage multiple projects running concurrently.  This ability has been quite valuable in my personal life raising two children.  The Architecture profession has also taught me the importance of building long-lasting relationships. Working closely with my peers always brings a strong sense of camaraderie and a better understanding of the importance of communication in everything we do. Through my years in school and my professional experience I have gained a strong grasp of resiliency. Learning that life does not always follow the plan you lay down for it; I have attained knowledge to be able to shift my thinking, adjust and adapt to different pathways.