Making Your Own Path In Architecture with Matter's Erin Pellegrino

On this episode of Tangents, Erin Pellegrino, Principal at Matter, and Co-Founder of Out of Architecture, shares her journey of balancing making and thinking in architecture, leading to a fulfilling and impactful career. From rebellious tomboy to successful architect, she discusses her approach to challenging the status quo and overcoming roadblocks by adopting a mindset of perseverance and continuous improvement. 

Erin's stories of building an Alpine shelter in the Alps and transforming a mid-century modern house's kitchen highlight the power of architecture to create meaningful spaces. From starting her own practice to co-founding Out of Architecture, Erin's experiences offer valuable insights into thriving as a creative professional.

Key Takeaways:

• Erin emphasizes the importance of remaining curious, ambitious, and optimistic to navigate the challenges of the architecture field.
• Building a career in architecture involves a balance between making and thinking, while striving to make a positive impact on the world.
• Overcoming insecurities and fears is crucial in pursuing one's career goals, along with seeking mentorship and support from experienced professionals.
• Responding to "no" by reframing it as an opportunity for refinement and improvement can lead to transformative outcomes in projects and career endeavors.
• Engaging in socially engaged work, such as projects for the unhoused, showcases the immense potential of architecture to address social issues and create meaningful change.

Highlights:

• Ambitious, Curious, Striving to be an Optimist
• Eri Berry Woman Drink Recipe
• Falling in Love with the Folk Art Museum
• Doing It All: From Teaching, To Practicing and More
• Professional Practice: Expectations Vs. Reality
• Creating Out of Architecture
• Overcoming Feelings of Inadequacy
• What Success Feels Like
• Architecture is an Inherently Optimistic Act
• Advice for Starting Your Own Practice
• Get Comfortable Asking for What You Want
• Figuring Out How To Get Things Done
• Then Challenging How Things Are Done
• Building A Wave of Change

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Creators & Guests

Host

Silvia Lee

Host of Tangents

Producer

Erin Pellegrino

Co-Founder of Out of Architecture

Producer

Jake Rudin

Co-Founder of Out of Architecture

What is Tangents by Out of Architecture?

Welcome to Tangents by Out of Architecture, hosted by Silvia Lee. We’re highlighting some of our favorite stories from the amazing people we’ve met along our journey. We will hear how they created a unique career path for themselves from the variety of skills and talents they developed in and out of architecture.

Out of Architecture is a career consulting firm started by two Harvard-educated professionals interested in exploring the value of their skills both in and out of the architectural profession. We’re here to help you maximize all of the expertise you have honed as a designer to get you a role that fulfills and challenges you. We have the knowledge, experience, and connections to help you put your best self into the market–and reap the benefits.