There is no typical day for Katie Lambert, but she says that’s what makes it fun. Her daily activities are wide-ranging to include intense focus on project planning and design, meeting with clients, and working with internal teams. In each case, she works holistically to build the quality of OKW’s design work.
As Design Director at OKW, Katie guides our architectural design and overall creative output. Sometimes she authors the design of a project, but frequently she’s providing constructive feedback to the work of other team members. Katie’s experience spans the full range of OKW’s market expertise, including project types as diverse as mixed-use, workplace, and medical office design.
Jewish Council for Youth Services Chicago, Wicker Park location
“I think, it’s not just about what that building looks like or how it’s put together. It’s about the business case behind it. It’s not just a pretty picture.”
When she started at OKW 6 years ago, Katie was excited by the opportunities OKW presented. She chose to join the firm because it offers employees at all levels access to leadership and daily decision-making.
“Everybody in this firm is close; whether you’re senior leadership or not, you’re witness to the process of running a business.”
Value City Furniture, Chicago
Now as a senior leader in the firm, Katie’s collaborative nature contributes to the inclusive culture at OKW.
“We’re bringing our team together to focus not only on our approach but also our strategy as a firm. I think it’s really exciting being able to connect folks from every level of experience - from people who are coming out of school to those with decades of experience. It has really impacted the direction of OKW in a meaningful way and demonstrates to potential clientele that we are a firm for the 21st century.”
Krispy Kreme Headquarters, Charlotte, NC
The word that comes up repeatedly in our meeting is “thoughtful”. Lambert describes her colleagues as thoughtful about the way they approach their work, she says that’s what drew her to the company.
“I think we’re thoughtful about how we approach the work, not only internally but externally. We think about things more holistically than some of our peers might; because it’s not only about this one specific project, we do the research to be able to guide our clients. It’s incredibly satisfying to be able to work on the front end of a project and conceive the initial concept that’s going to drive the entire building design forward.”
Oak Street Health, Multiple Locations
Katie relates her motivation to author new designs as choosing to live and work in Chicago with her family. Walking around the city galvanizes in her mind the impact of architecture on people’s daily lives.
“You feel as though you’re a part of something larger and I think that really connects strongly to what we do every day here at OKW.”
Katie Lambert
Design Director at OKW Architects