[Complex vs. Simplistic. Chaotic vs. Tranquil. Historic vs.Contemporary. Built vs. Natural. Bureaucratic vs Grassroots. Fee vs Free. The Individual vs. The Collective.]
Urbanity is constantly seeking to find the balance between these competing forces, which is why I was, am, and continue to be so intrigued and engulfed inthe pursuit to be an active participant in this metamorphosis.
With a BSc in City and Regional Planning, a Minor in Sustainable Environments from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and a MA Urban Design from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle uponTyne, UK, my studies and work within the urban realm have allowed me to study,experience, and work within the thriving metropolis to the down-trodden ex-urbs and everything in between.
At Gensler since 2007, it is this passion that I instill in every project that I have the opportunity to be a part of. Ensuring this passion is equally matched with pragmatism and research is my role as a Recognized Practitioner of Urban Design (RPUD) to continue a dialogue about urban design and its influence in the built and natural environments.
Outside of the office, I continue this dialogue with fellow colleagues, designers, and students through ULI’s Young Leader Group and APA’s Young Planner Group, as well as being a member of both the APA Urban Design and Preservation Group and Newcastle University mentor programs. In addition, working with leadership at the East LA Renaissance Academy, I have been co-leading a class teaching high school aged students about the planning and design process through hands on approach focusing on existing community needs.[brian glodney]