International Women's Day 2021

On March 8th each year since 1911, international women’s day is celebrated. The idea for this day was set in motion in 1908 when 15,000 women marched through New York City fighting for shorter hours, better pay, and the right to vote.

Now in 2021 we celebrate how far women have come in society, yet we also recognise the ongoing fight for equality.

This is certainly present in the world of architecture that is still a largely male industry. In 2018 men accounted for 72% of ARB registered architects. (see footer).

With this in mind we asked our female team members…

'How they feel working in a male dominated industry as a women and does working at astudio impact on this topic, along with any quotes they feel inspire them as women’.

"I am proud to be part of a company where women are encouraged to take the lead and are empowered by a culture where everyone has a voice. We listen, We share – are two of the company core values and in my opinion, crucial in creating an egalitarian and just work environment. Everyone is invited to contribute and make a difference, individual strengths and passions are valued and self-development is encouraged. This philosophy has helped to build a strong team, where ultimately everyone has a role in moving the company forward. When there are well-defined core values, it is easier to measure success from the actual accomplishments, as well as self-commitment, and reward accordingly, independently of who you are."

’ Some leaders are born women’’ – Geraldine Ferraro, first female vice presidential candidate

“I’ve been working in construction since I was an undergraduate, in the late 1980s. Attitudes in the industry have changed enormously since then – for the better. I still meet the odd dinosaur, but they are very much in the minority now and if stated explicitly, antediluvian views no longer go unchallenged, by men and by women. So, in terms of the working environment, I think we’ve come a long way.

That’s not to say we have reached a point of equality and there is nothing left to do. The gender pay gap, especially in contractor organisations, is shocking – over 30% in 2019. In architecture, it is 20%. In both cases, I wonder if that is less a reflection of women being paid less to do the same work and more indicative that there are precious few women holding senior positions in construction companies.

 At astudio, there are many women who are well regarded and who’s career prospects are not impeded by an assumption that, because they are women, they should be limited – but we cannot be complacent. There is much still to do.”

“ Be a girl with a mind, a woman with attitude, and a lady with class”- Unknown

“Although architecture is a male dominated profession, I have never felt intimidated by it or been in a situation where where my thoughts or skills were undermined: If anything it empowers me to strive more. However working in one of my previous practices I actually felt more undermined by a women who had recently become a Part 3 architect then any of my male mentors.

At present working in Astudio has been great fun and I have learnt a wealth of knowledge. There is a comfortable ratio to men and women within the practice and everyone has an equal say within the team/practice discussions, no matter what your position/background.”

“Be the women you needed as a girl” - Unknown

“Gender blind industry is possible with new generation coming in and simply not accepting things as they are just because' that's what it has always been'. I think we can fast track that process with and open dialogue and questioning the current situation. Hopefully in a near future being an only women in the 10 people meeting will no longer be an ' industry standard’.”

“Here’s to strong women: May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.” - Unknown

“The construction industry is indeed a male dominated one and presents a major challenge for equal opportunities for women who face various barriers in terms of entry, development, and retention. This male dominated culture is something known to us from the academic years and plays a big role in a young women’s career path. It definitely affected my perception on the industry many times being left very disappointed and wanting to give up even before starting my career!

Fortunately for me I had the chance to work with some great academic female architects during my last years at University who pushed me in the right direction and teach me the importance of changing those stereotypes. 

After graduating, working in astudio was a great example that change can happen. I could see women in different managerial positions, taking initiatives and being leaders. Men and women working together sharing their skills and having equal opportunities was very inspiring. Everyone has a voice no matter of your position or gender.

Although some practices are pushing for a change, things are not there yet and women are not recognized especially in large firms. As Sadie Morgan said in one of his interviews on the subject : ‘There is enough credible evidence now showing that a better and more diverse senior team makes for a more successful business. It seems counter-intuitive for practices to continue with an outdated mode of working and not try to address this issue’

On this day we should encourage more practices to set examples and promote women. These women will become the inspiration to other women to step up and have their voices heard. In this way we can learn how to be empowered by gender and create a better future in architecture”

“Your success will not be determined by your gender or your ethnicity but only by the scope of your dreams” - Zaha Hadid

“In a male dominated industry, the number of women in architecture has dramatically increased in the last 3 decades. This is leading into more diversity and leaving so many great examples of female architects. However, leadership roles are still driven mostly by men. Hopefully that's something that will change in the next few years. During my studies in architecture and career years in Astudio, I have learnt from great female architects that have inspired and helped me become a better professional. I wish to also become an inspiration for others.”

https://www.ribaj.com/intelligence/market-analysis-statistics-gender-ethnicity-socio-economic-background-architects#:~:text=Yes%2C%202018%20registrations%20show%20the,72%25%20of%20ARB%20registered%20architects.