We’re very excited to announce the recipient of our most recent Chairish scholarship, Kianna Armstrong. She’s currently enrolled at the University of Southern California, pursuing a degree in architecture. In addition to being a student, Kianna also cofounded the organization Architecture and Advocacy (A+A), with the goal of creating more equity in the world of architecture and tackling social injustices. And… she’s still only in her sophomore year! We’re excited to see what Kianna will do over her remaining years at USC, and the many things she’s sure to accomplish in her future career in architecture.
Read on to learn more about this exceptional young woman as well as the Chairish Scholarship Program. To apply for the scholarship in the future, click here.
Can you tell us a bit about how architecture factored into your life growing up and what made you want to enter this field?
My all-time favorite place to go as a nine-year-old kid was the tile store. In 2012, my family moved into a new house, which called for some renovations. So, my family rushed to the tile store at least once a week. I would run in and out of the model bathrooms and kitchens analyzing every detail from the marble floors to the stainless steel door knobs.
My parents noticed my early interest in design, and when it was time to remodel our new basement they gave me the title of head architect… for the bathroom. Nevertheless, I had the opportunity to make my imaginary designs into reality. From then on, I started to fall even more in love with the profession. I enjoy the intersectionality of art, science, and community exhibited by architecture. The countless possibilities in design inspire me to push the limits of how art and architecture can look.
What excites you about a career in architecture?
As an architect I will have the opportunity to build physical spaces that impact the lives of many people. Each piece of a building from the foundation to the facade impacts how a person feels in a space. Since people are constantly surrounded by different forms of architecture, I will branch into many different disciplines.
I am especially interested in the ways that architecture can be used to build community. I believe that architecture is a medium to convey messages and tackle social injustices. In architecture, I can challenge myself to create intellectual designs that reach my goal of representing the perspectives of different cultures and communities. By incorporating different perspectives into my design, I will create spaces that are inclusive and welcoming.
How did you hear about the Chairish scholarship program?
As a current college student, I was searching for scholarship programs that support and highlight artists of color. When I found the Chairish scholarship program, I resonated with the mission to support underrepresented communities.
What does this scholarship mean to you?
I am extremely grateful to receive the Chairish scholarship. I plan to use this scholarship to help fund my education in architecture and social entrepreneurship. In my application I shared my dreams to be a changemaker through my career, and it’s an honor to have my dreams recognized. The support from the Chairish scholarship program is one step toward building my future.
You mention in your essay that you co-founded an organization, Architecture and Advocacy (A+A). Can you tell us a little bit more about your plans after graduation?
Yes! Architecture + Advocacy is a student-run organization that empowers young people to design the change they want to see in their neighborhoods. As architecture students, our leadership noticed that the architecture profession has historically perpetuated injustices in the built environment. Through workshops and design builds we are starting to share that architecture and design can be used to uplift and empower communities and un-design spatial injustice.
After graduation, I plan to continue advocating for equitable spaces in the field of architecture. I plan to use my education in architecture and social entrepreneurship to create a design firm that focuses on community-centered design. I will continue using my position as an architect to create equitable spaces and uplift communities through design.
When not in class or studying, what hobbies or activities can we find you taking part in?
I am a member of the USC club soccer team, so I spend a lot of time with my team practicing and team bonding. As part of the club soccer team, I’ve had the opportunity to travel across Southern California for games and see places I would never have seen otherwise. I am also a painter and artist. On a nice day, I love to sit outside and create art with friends.
If you could select some items on the site to furnish your current living quarters, what would those be?
In my living space, I love to add lots of bold colors and exciting forms. I selected a range of pieces that could bring life to an empty apartment. I really enjoy the blue, pink, and yellow pieces and the combinations that I can make together.
