Today, we’d like to introduce you to Margit Whitlock.
Hi Margit, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As a child, I was encouraged to be as creative as possible. From cooking to science, art, music, theater, and dance, I just liked making stuff. I made a lot of forts!! I did not know what Architecture was or meant until my SAT results pointed me in that direction. One day, I walked into my career counselor’s office and asked to look at architecture schools to apply to.
My counselor said I should look into business or nursing and that Architecture was a man’s profession. Well, that did not sit very well with my mom, and the next day, I was called to the principal’s office, where my mom and the principal demanded the counselor apologize to me. At 17, I had experienced the glass ceiling, and I was not about to accept that.
I tell this story a lot because, in the 80s, girls were not encouraged to pursue the sciences, let alone Architecture. Thank goodness things are different now. Fast forward, I graduated from the University of Oregon with a B ARCH and headed to San Diego to start my career. In 1992 I started my firm and have enjoyed every moment of my life as a mom, architect, business owner, mentor and community leader.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Well, that glass ceiling was hovering when I opened my firm, and it took years to earn respect from my male counterparts in architecture and construction. I really did not let it bother me, though.
The bigger struggles were more related to business management, finance, employee retention, HR, marketing, and building a brand, all things no one learns in architecture school. I really suggest young entrepreneurs get an MBA.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I think what sets us apart from others and keeps our clients returning is that we care. I am genuinely invested in my client’s success, and design is a means to that success, yet so is time and money.
You need to approach a project as a whole. Having a good process, staying on top of the schedule and budget, and having great design is a win-win for everyone.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I would say I was a playful child, curious, mischievous, creative, silly, girly girl.
I was interested in everything from gardening and rock hunting to fashion and theater. One big passion from early on has been cooking. I love to cook and put on a big party. I’m an extrovert, for sure!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.4designs.com
- Instagram: @architecturalconceptsinc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArchitecturalConceptsInc?ref=hl
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margitwhitlockaia/
- Twitter: ArchitectMargit
- Youtube: @architecturalconceptsinc.3924
