Getting to Know Jake Lehman
Join us in welcoming Jake Lehman, AIA, as the newest member to our team at Runa Workshop. Jake will be assuming a Project Architect role, though his nimble and collaborative spirit has already shown us he will be contributing to the team in so many ways. Jake recently relocated to Austin from New York City where he worked at a large firm developing and implementing immersive environments in both architecture and interiors, spanning many project types. Over the course of his 8+ year career, Jake has been recognized both personally and professionally by the American Institute of Architects for not only exemplary design, but also as an Emerging Professional. Those accolades demonstrate the drive and talent within Jake and we could not be more excited to have him on the team! Feel free to reach out to him directly for introductions! jlehman@runaworkshop.com
Jake took the time to share some personal thoughts during our introductory Q + A. Check out what he had to say, including why he chose Runa and what you might find him doing outside of the office.
Q: What made you want to join the Runa team?
A: I was interested in joining Runa because of their warmth and willingness to
engage in open conversation and discussion on all topics, at every point of contact
that I’ve had with the team.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
A: Outside of work, I enjoy taking the time to play and make music on a few
instruments. When it is warm, I enjoy kayaking. When cold, skiing or reading a good
book.
Q: What does collaboration mean to you?
A: Collaboration, to me, is a willingness to be open to the points of views of others,
and their experiences in life. It is the ability to make yourself vulnerable with others
to try and see a different perspective and point of view.
Q: What is your favorite possession (design based)?
A: An authentic 1970 National Atlas of the USA, signed by the president. It was the
last year the Atlas was printed in physical form, and is one of only fifteen thousand
copies produced.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in this role?
A: In this role, I am most excited about the new design opportunities and
collaboration with the Runa team. I am also excited about the new potential of
being in the city of Austin, after moving from NYC.
Q: What can we as designers do to better support our community during
this unprecedented time?
A: During these unprecedented times, we as designers can be more empathetic and
compassionate listeners to those who are around us. The world can quickly become
loud and chaotic, it’s important to take the time be patient and to listen to what
others are actually saying.
Q: Which architects do you love?
A: A few of my favorite architects are Paulo Soleri, Renzo Piano and Carlo Scarpa.
Q: Which architectural projects do you find the most exciting?
A: I find that exciting projects are the result of exciting clients. Some of my favorite
buildings are: “The Centre Pompidou” and “Maison a Bordeaux”.