Architecture is one of the oldest professions. Despite the skill being centuries old, the concept of women in a large-scale building is unusual. Even architectural schools need to educate women architects in their curriculum. As a result, it is essential to spotlight these trailblazers who broke down boundaries and prepared the way for others to follow.
Due to gender inequality, society has long overlooked women’s involvement in architecture and design. Luckily, professional groups exist to assist women in breaking through these old obstacles.
5 Famous Female Architects
1. Elizabeth Wilbraham
Elizabeth Wilbraham may or may not have been Europe’s first female architect. Some historians even surmised that she may have instructed Sir Christopher Wren, one of the most famous architects ever. Some academics believe she designed up to 400 buildings, mostly residences.
Many residential buildings nowadays were built and designed by female architects whose designs may have been influenced by Lady Wilbraham’s designs and styles. From tiny houses to grand designs, there is no doubt that women architects like her could help you make your dream house, or if you want to avoid the hassle of building your future home, you can get a home loan from Sofi to instantly purchase your dream house.
2. Marion Mahony Griffin
Marion Mahony Griffin was one of the women who pioneered the architectural industry before they were allowed to vote. Griffin was possibly the first female licensed architect in the United States, and she spent most of her early career working for Frank Lloyd Wright, who was on his way to becoming one of the world’s most famous architects.
Griffin and other famous female architects proved that architecture and other engineering works are not for the male gender only. They worked hard to erase gender inequality not only in architecture but also in other fields as well.
3. Julia Morgan
Julia Morgan was the first woman from any country to study architecture at Paris’ prestigious École des Beaux-Arts. She used her studies to become the country’s first successful, self-sufficient female architect and founded her firm, creating over 700 structures in the American West. Morgan is known for Hearst Castle.
4. Norma Merrick Sklarek
Sklarek, known as “the Rosa Parks of architecture,” was one of the first black female architects in the United States and the first to have a license in architecture in New York and California. Sklarek’s career began modestly, even though she was born in Harlem and graduated from Columbia’s architecture school.
Her first job out of college was at the New York City Department of Public Works, where she spent much of her time designing bathroom layouts, something she was overqualified for. Sklarek previously said she faced discrimination from her boss, likely because she was a young, black female architect who was licensed, all things he was not.
5. Beverly Willis
Willis struggled to achieve her aspirations as a watercolor artist after a strict upbringing during the Great Depression. She spent several years in an orphanage until her mother could afford to care for her and her siblings again. Gustav Ecke exposed her to Oriental art and architecture, while Jean Charlot introduced her to European art and frescoes.
The Bottom Line
Architecture is significant in society. It can alter a city and give it a distinct character. It allows individuals to relate to what they see and gives them a sense of belonging even when they are down. The majestic skylines, attractive exteriors, and stunning interiors seen today are the product of skilled architects’ efforts. Several of these architects have been, are, or will be female.
These famous female architects have proven that architecture is not only for the men of society. More women have proven they are also capable in engineering and other male-dominated professions. They have continuously set the standards for aspiring female architects who want to succeed in the same field.