Growing up exploring forests in the Pacific Northwest, Hillary developed a deep connection to nature and an appreciation for how landscapes transform over time through cycles of decomposition and growth. She applies this perspective to her design process by thinking critically about the lifecycle of new and existing buildings and how good design meaningfully responds to its context.
Hillary is particularly interested in the outward expression of a building’s purpose and character through its envelope design. During her time with Perkins + Will, Hillary further explored envelope design while working on Towson University’s College of Health Professions building, a grand terracotta facility that beautifully integrates with its surrounding campus landscape.
Hillary’s love for nature remains today; you can often find her out on walks, or you may even spot her climbing a tree. If you’re in Washington State and see Hillary, however, it’s more likely that you’ve actually spotted her identical twin sister, Geneva.
