99% Invisible

Natalie de Blois: To Tell the Truth

Mar 15, 2022
Natalie de Blois, a pioneering architect known for her work with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, shares her journey through the male-dominated architectural landscape of the mid-20th century. She discusses balancing motherhood with her groundbreaking career, contributing to iconic designs like the Lever House, and her advocacy for women in architecture. De Blois reflects on her legacy as an educator, the importance of mentorship, and her thoughts on urban preservation versus modern development, highlighting the critical roles women play in shaping the built environment.
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ANECDOTE

Early Career Challenges

  • Natalie de Blois was fired from her first architecture job after a male colleague, whose advances she rejected, complained.
  • Louis Skidmore then hired her after her former boss, Mr. Ketchum, called him.
ANECDOTE

Workplace Sexism at SOM

  • At SOM, Natalie de Blois faced sexism, being excluded from client lunches at men's clubs despite having vital project information.
  • She was often underestimated, even being mistaken for an interior designer despite her prominent role.
ANECDOTE

Pregnancy and Professionalism

  • Partner Gordon Bunshaft advised de Blois against attending an opening ceremony while pregnant.
  • This highlights the discomfort surrounding pregnancy in the professional sphere at the time.
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