Patricia Natke
President & Design Principal | UrbanWorks, Ltd. Q: What is the reason you chose to pursue architecture/ urban design? I pursued Architecture because I am passionate about improving cities, communities and neighborhoods. Recognizing that underserved areas in major cities lack equitable vocal representation, I serve people of all socioeconomic strata. All deserve good design. Q: Where are the places you have travelled for work or other professional related activities? I began exploring Architecture through travel while on the University of Illinois School of Architecture Versailles Study Abroad Program. This life changing experience opened my eyes to diverse cultural experiences, historical architecture, and modern design.
I was awarded a United States Department of State Arts and Cultural Grant through Partners of the Americas in 2007 in order to analyze, compare, and contrast American public housing and Brazilian favelas. Provoking discussions on innovative social housing solutions took me back to Sao Paulo, Brazil in 2010 with a group of volunteer architects and landscape architects. We led a week-long Sustainable Masterplan workshop for the historic railway town of Paranapiacaba, Brazil. I’ve lectured throughout the United States and South America and have visited 24 countries, including my ancestral country, Mexico. My firm’s designs celebrate the sensitive integration of local and global influences.
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