Pram in the Hall
Noted British Architect Zaha Hadid has suggested that her profession requires a dedication that precludes any kind of family life: "If it doesn't kill you, then you're no good. I mean, really - you have to go at it full-time. You can't afford to dip in and out. When women break off to have babies, it's hard for them to reconnect on the big scale." (The Guardian, November 27, 2006)
Approximately 11% of architects registered with the AIBC are women.
A significant number leave the profession during their internship. Women leave for a number of reasons, some are driven out by the inflexibility of the profession to adequately accept and accommodate parenthood.
Pram in the Hall is a series of interviews with some individuals who are raising families while practicing as design professionals. The interviews are not necessarily intended to be messages of encouragement or cautionary tales, but a means of raising important issues through a set of candid conversations.
Issues of child-rearing primarily affect women, but as men take on a more active role in parenthood, these issues are beginning to affect men as well. Several women and a few men were interviewed during the Fall of 2009 for this series. They represent a range of ages from 30 to 88 and a range of practice including architects, interns, engineers, landscape architects, and lecturers. Many thanks to the individuals who agreed to discuss aspects of their work and life. Their stories will be posted here seasonally throughout the year.
What does this series hope to achieve? The exercise began by focusing on mothers, but quickly revealed issues that have a farther reach. Inflexibility and exclusion affect many members of the profession and warrant further examination. As a start, I suggest that a study be conducted on the current status of all women in the architectural profession in BC to determine precisely where the impediments to advancement lie. If this series helps to begin this process than it’s achieved a great deal.
By posting your thoughtful comments you will help.
Under “Resources” you will find related articles, studies, and initiatives that might interest you.
- Stephanie Robb MAIBC
Robb is a member of the AIBC’s Registration and Licensing Board. She is also a parent.
