Chris Anderson

Chris believes thoughtful design “often works in the background.” If it’s intuitive and convenient, he reasons, it simply makes life easier. “But it also has the potential to bring unexpected joy, so it’s important we design buildings with multiple layers to experience.” Humble about his own talents, Chris enjoys mentoring newer designers. “It takes many years to understand how buildings perform over time and recognize the potential pitfalls,” he remarks. “I try to share my mistakes and accomplishments with others so they, too, can create architecture that endures.” Raised in L.A., Chris says he was “easily awestruck” by buildings as a child, particularly the “strength and beauty” of Art Deco buildings. He fondly recalls evening hikes with his grandparents in the Hollywood Hills. “Walking up to the majestic Griffith Observatory at night elicited such a strong emotional reaction, I think it put me on the path to architecture.”