Practice Disrupted by Practice of Architecture 207: Architecture, And: Mark Chambers on Designing Systems for Change
What happens when an architect’s skillset is applied not just to buildings, but to the complex systems that shape our cities, policies, and climate?
This week, Evelyn is joined by co-host Larry Fabbroni and his longtime friend and Carnegie Mellon classmate, Mark Chambers, an environmental policy leader and architect who has taken his training from design studios to city halls and the White House.
This rich conversation explores Mark's remarkable career arc, from practicing architect to the Sustainability Director for Washington D.C. and New York City, and later, the first Senior Director for Building Emissions and Community Resilience in the Biden White House. Mark explains how he views his architectural training as the discipline of a "three-dimensional problem solver," a skill that allows him to deconstruct and reassemble complex policy challenges just as he would a building. He argues that this skillset is a strategic advantage, especially in interdisciplinary rooms where the architectural perspective is unique and highly valued.
The discussion goes beyond resumes to tackle the big questions facing the profession and society. When asked how architects can secure more value for their work, Mark challenges the premise of fighting for a bigger piece of the existing pie.
"I'm questioning the whole pie. I'm questioning the way in which the pie was set up. It's like, I don't want a bigger slice. I want a different pie." - Mark Chambers
This episode concludes with a masterclass in optimistic disruption, as Mark advocates for a fundamental reimagining of the architect's role - from a service provider to an owner, a caretaker, and a shaper of systems. He offers advice for professionals at any stage on how to build a personal narrative, take calculated chances, find their audience, and use their unique skills to drive collective action and build the future they want to see.
Guest
Mark Chambers is an architect, environmental policy leader, and social impact designer focused on the intersection of climate action, community, and the built environment. His career has been dedicated to public service, having served as the Director of Sustainability for both New York City and Washington D.C., and as the Senior Director for Building Emissions and Community Resilience for the White House Council on Environmental Quality. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, Mark uses his architectural training to solve complex systemic problems and advocate for a more sustainable and equitable future.
Larry Fabbroni is an architect with over two decades in practice. He formerly led master planning projects at Ehrenkrantz Eckstut & Kuhn Architects and Strada Architecture, working on some of the largest development projects in the U.S. Today, he serves as a consultant specializing in strategic pre-development services and as CIO for the Practice of Architecture. Larry earned his MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where he focused on entrepreneurship and strategy.
Is This Episode for You?
This episode is for you if:
✅ You are curious about career paths for architects in public policy, climate action, and government.
✅ You want to understand how an architectural skillset can be a strategic advantage in non-traditional roles.
✅ You feel frustrated by the existing systems and are looking for inspiration to challenge the status quo.
✅ You are seeking an optimistic framework for staying hopeful and effective in a time of uncertainty.
✅ You want advice on how to build a career narrative, take chances, and find your voice to make an impact.
📍 Show Links:
- Connect with Mark on LinkedIn
- Connect with Larry on LinkedIn
- Learn more about Living Future
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