DIRECTOR CHAT
smbw is pleased to introduce Cody Solberg, AIA, NCARB as smbw's new Director. We sat down to learn more about his impactful and strategic approach to architecture and design.
Cody’s responsibility as a designer is inherently embedded in providing focused contextualized spaces with an emphasis on craft, materials, and precise detailing and delivery. Cody's concept-driven approach ensures that each space tells a story, ultimately enhancing the experience of those who inhabit them. Passionate about architecture and interiors, Cody is always working towards cohesive deliverables for his clients, communities, and colleagues.
Why were you attracted to smbw?
I have always admired the scale of the smbw office, the diversity of projects that drive the practice, and the talented people who call smbw home.
Why did you pursue a career in design?
I doodled a lot as a kid, and have always had some sort of creative eye. I found myself drawn (no pun intended) to art classes and eventually found myself in a CAD drafting class in high school.
I was interested in a career that was inherently flexible and architecture is the culmination of so many of my passions including but not limited to: design, graphics, math, science, story telling, the humanities, sociology, technology, etc.
What type of design or skills are you known for?
I embrace story telling, narrative, and concept through all of my projects. I take pride in my ability to think conceptually and holistically from the project's inception, guiding the foundational elements through the design process and ensuring that every detail is thoughtfully executed within the framework of the overarching concept. It’s about taking the big-picture and teasing out the beautiful intrinsic details that make a project unique for each client.
What aspects of design or the firm interest you?
My career has spanned both architecture and interiors and smbw has balanced these two aspects of the profession with rigor, intentionally, and a strong dedicated team. find immense joy in sharing my expertise across various sectors and working alongside the talented individuals at smbw. The firm's portfolio is rich with diverse projects, each exemplifying quality, collaboration, and design excellence.
“It’s about taking the big-picture and teasing out the beautiful intrinsic details that make a project unique for each client.”
What are your top project experiences?
Bloomberg DC Corporate Office | LSM Bloomberg was one of the first projects that I worked on from concept design through construction administration; I learned a tremendous amount at LSM with the quick nature of tenant improvement projects. These skills have translated to successful design, delivery, and outcomes for future clients. The program requirements balanced several distinctive design opportunities between two floor plates
Hourigan Charlottesville Office | VMDO
Driven by the unique qualities of the base-building's mass timber structure, Hourigan's Charlottesville office was a terrific example of efficient space planning and a simple design palette. Hourigan's office was a particularly special workplace environment we respected the base building and allowed the workspace to seamlessly blend focused and collaborative environments; all celebrated in the warmth of base-building's one-of-a-kind structure.
Roanoke Parks and Rec HQ | Marvel
Adapting historic structures allows for terrific opportunities to sustainably approach a client’s desires. In this case, Roanoke Parks and Rec was keen on providing one campus to house parks and operations staff together.
The overarching concept of the river set the tone for the intentional, responsive, and highly articulated layout of the new office HQ within the volume(s) of two existing historic structures.
WillowTree Charlottesville Office | 3North WillowTree really was a warehouse in the woods, elevated by the experience of gaining knowledge with historic adaptive re-use. The bones of these buildings allowed for limitless possibilities for the interior layout and organization of the WillowTree team, compounded by the need to bring all their teams from different offices together under one roof. Intentional base-building alterations and additions provided efficient ways to traverse between buildings both horizontally and vertically. Capitalizing on interactions and the need for varied spaces throughout each floor plate were balanced with simple, crisp, and curated designs.
George Washington University Thurston Hall | Thurston Hall allowed me to gain knowledge in the world of Capital A “Architecture”. The succinct programmatic moves that reshaped the interior courtyard of the existing building provided a multitude of learning opportunities for base building architecture, detailing, and execution.
What drives you professionally?
Collaboration is a significant motivator for me. I find tremendous value in working alongside the right team to bring a project to life. As architects and designers we have a crucial role in shaping a better future and I see this throughout my continued work with AIA Richmond and the Young Architect's Forum (YAF) Committee. I'm driven by problem solving, the notion of life-long learning, and exploring design through multiple lenses. I have worked with tremendous mentors and advocates that have helped propel my career and I look forward to using my voice to do the same.
What professional growth opportunities are you hoping for at smbw?
I pride myself in my ability to lead with compassion, listen intently, and communicate effectively. By joining smbw, I hope to capitalize on my strengths as a leader and plant roots within the firm's legacy. Richmond is chock-full of potential and smbw is the perfect avenue to instill meaningful design throughout our city. I'm eager to advance my professional growth by deepening community connections, fostering strong relationships, and leading impactful design initiatives that resonate with our city's remarkable character. Growth for me is compounded by the notion of lifting the voices of our next generation of designers, providing meaningful spaces for our clients and building upon lasting relationships and strategic partnerships.
What are your personal passions or obsessions?
I’m always tinkering with photography or graphics, something to itch the creative side outside of the profession. When I’m not lugging my DSLR around I’m using my phone to capture pictures or videos. also love the outdoors and try to use any excuse to be out and about hiking, camping, enjoying the James River or strolling somewhere with our pooch.
Cody Solberg, AIA, NCARB Director, Architecture
