Magic Moment: I had been working for over 25 years for an institutional design firm when I met a free-spirited and fearless person who taught me to follow my instincts rather than “best practices” which never create anything new.

Key Influence: Will Alsop and Rod Robbie. I worked for both of them and they couldn’t have been more different than one another but both shared great senses of humour and lust for life lived to the full.

Next Big Challenge As An Industry: More integration through BIM (Building Information Management). Do away with the blame mindset of the construction industry of the past.

Secret Talent: I was a majorette in high school and can still twirl a baton.

On Championing Others… Growing up in a household that never differentiated between what men and women could do, I always took it for granted that I could do what I wanted and ended up in the male-dominated industries of live music and architecture. I’ve never thought of myself as a female designer, but simply a designer. I encourage those that I mentor to be clear and unequivocal in their communication.

One word that captures you: Direct. (depending on your perspective, substitute rude)