last detail: architectural leader
Civic Architect, Public Servant HDR’s Civic Architectural Director of the Central Region Julianne Scherer shares insights into civic work and its rewards. Julianne Scherer, aia, ncarb, leed ap bd+c, HDR, was recently promoted to Civic Architectural Director of the Central Region
From Chicago to Denver to the larger U.S. central region, HDR Architect Julianne Scherer, aia, ncarb, leed ap bd+c, has always placed community at the center of her work and focus as an architect. Through this passion she has migrated towards civic projects where she sees herself as a steward of community dollars to help craft spaces that enhance daily life. As part of this mandate, Scherer takes the time to get to know the communities she is designing for and really listen to their voices.
“Civic work requires an open heart. It’s not about defending your design at all costs; it’s about embracing healthy discourse and being willing to adapt.” -Julianne Scherer
After graduating from Penn State in architecture, Scherer spent 23 years working for the mid-sized Chicago firm Sheehan Nagle Hartray Architects, rising to the position of principal. The opportunity to help manage an HDR office then brought her to Denver, where she's been involved in several projects of note, including the renovation of the Jefferson County Public Library’s Belmar branch in Lakewood, Colo., and preserving and updating the historic Wyoming State Capital and Herschler State Office Building. For the former project, Scherer’s team led small group community and staff meetings, and conducted online surveys. After determining where to prioritize updates, the architects reconfigured the layout, creating more active areas and dedicated zones for quiet study, collaboration, reading, and areas for youth and children. Meanwhile in Cheyenne, Scherer’s crew helped restore the exterior stone, windows, metal entablature and dome of the 130-year-old statehouse, in addition to extensive interior renovations.
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ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTS
Photos courtesy of HDR
“Whether it's a park you walk through, the library you visit, the community or recreation center that supports your fitness, wellness or after school programs, civic architecture shapes the places where community happens. It’s purposeful, impactful and deeply rooted in service,” she states.
HDR restored the exterior stone, windows, metal entablature and dome of the 130-year-old Wyoming State Capital and updated the interiors, in addition to work on the Herschler State Office Building.
After close to nine years with HDR, Scherer was promoted to Civic Architectural Director of the Central Region, now overseeing 12 states with 43 offices. “I’ll be working across multiple studios, exploring how we can build opportunities in the cities, counties and states we serve. It’s a big shift, and I’m energized by the possibilities. I’m looking forward to connecting architecture with people and place in a deeper way,” she relates.
Volunteerism The daughter of a public accountant, Scherer’s father was very active in his professional association. “He taught me that if you want your profession to be respected, you must respect it yourself and get involved. That mindset has stuck with me.”
Now in Colorado, she serves on the board of both the Governors for the Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation and AIA’s Colorado chapter, including a stint as president. She’s also a committee member for the Downtown Denver Partnership’s urban exploration program.
Civic Work Sharing some best practices as a successful civic architect, Scherer explains that one of the most important lessons learned is the value of vulnerability and humility as a designer working with the public. — Barbara Horwitz-Bennett, contributing writer
09-10 . 2025