Natalie Lao

As an architectural designer with two years of experience at PALMA + PARTNERS, I have had the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of sustainable innovation. Graduating cum laude from the Illinois Institute of Technology in 2022, I earned my B.Arch degree along with a minor in environmental engineering. This multidisciplinary education has allowed me to approach architecture from a unique angle, combining aesthetic considerations with environmental responsibility. I firmly believe that architecture is more than just an aesthetic endeavor; it is an opportunity to positively impact the world around us through thoughtful design and environmental stewardship. It is essential for architects to take a holistic approach to design, considering not only the structural and spatial elements but also the environmental and social impacts.

Working at PALMA + PARTNERS for the past year has been a unique and rewarding experience. As a junior architect, I have been actively involved in the design process from schematic design to construction on a variety of projects, including high-end residential, multi-low-rise residential developments, and high-rise mixed-use buildings. During this time, I have been able to demonstrate my creativity and technical skills by creating prototypes, building codes, and computer models using BIM software as well as preparing construction drawings. Furthermore, I have also had the opportunity to collaborate with teams of professionals and gain knowledgeable insight into the industry. 

I am a recent graduate of the Illinois Institute of Technology, Class of 2022 Cum Laude with a B.Arch in Architecture and a Minor in Environmental Engineering.