Since our last check-in during this lingering pandemic, we’ve implemented a few different office schedules, varying from having employees work from home (WFH) full-time to offering a hybrid-WFH schedule.
In this current check-in, Abbi Naylor (AN) interviews Anette Zakarian (AZ). Anette is back in the office while also working through graduate school.
We catch up about WFH thoughts, knitting, school, and advice for future designers.
AN: How has it been adjusting back to office life?
AZ: Making the switch from WFH to the office full-time was difficult at first. When I was working from home, I sometimes wouldn’t leave my house due to the pandemic. It’s nice being social in the office again, but I sure do miss my sweatpants!
At one point we implemented a hybrid WFH schedule which was a good balance of engaging with collaborative work while in the office and then focusing on solo tasks at home.
AN: What’s your ideal home office set up?
AZ: First, it would be great to have a separate room for an office. My current “office set-up” is in my semi-cluttered bedroom.
In a perfect world, my ideal home office would have high-end ergonomic furniture, lots of natural light, no clutter, and a stocked mini-fridge. (@HermanMiller, if you’re reading this, please sponsor Anette’s future office set-up).
AN: Does Mango make a good co-worker when you’re working from home?
AZ: Yes, most days! Sometimes he scratches at my door when it’s closed, but more often than not he’s sleeping. I always enjoy him stopping by for head scratches or taking a break to walk him around the block.
AN: Have you had time for any knitting projects?
AZ: Not as much as I used to ☹. Right now, I’m finishing up graduate school [for structural engineering]. I’m hoping to focus on some knitting and baking during the upcoming holidays!
AN: For those who don’t know, Anette is our star baker and “sweets connoisseur.” There are very few bakeries or coffee shops in Los Angeles that she hasn’t tried.
AZ: This is true!
AN: What are some of your favorite spots to grab a coffee and a sweet?
AZ: I always grab a cold brew from La Colombe, specifically the Frogtown location, of course. Their coffee is really so good.
My favorite bakery is Proof Bakery in Atwater village. Even before the pandemic there was always a line out the door. There is a reason for this—it’s just so darn good! Their chocolate chip cookies, almond croissants, and expertly-crafted cakes are to die for.
AN: Okay let’s talk design now. What initially got you interested in this career path?
AZ: I was a “lost soul” during my first year of community college. I thought about a career in the sciences, something like biology or nursing. Then I happened to take a World Architecture class for a gen-ed requirement.
My professor was so passionate about the subject and would teach us through photos he had taken during his travels that it inspired me to want to be a part of the design world. That class showed me how integral architecture is to our daily lives.
AN: What made you want to study structural engineering vs. architecture for your Master’s program?
AZ: Initially I was working closely with engineers and I was interested in how they would calculate everything. As time went on, I realized how subjective architecture can be and how straightforward structural engineering is—it’s hard to argue with math!
I also think there’s a great benefit to understanding the engineering aspect of design, especially when it comes to complicated details. I think firms that have structural engineering in-house are able to streamline the design process more efficiently.
AN: Who are some of your favorite designers?
AZ: I really love the work of Santiago Calatrava, who designed the Oculus at the new World Trade Center. This goes back to my theory of studying both architecture and engineering—his firm focuses on both and their work speaks for itself.
I also love the Los Angeles legends of course, like Lautner and Neutra.
AN: What are your favorite types of projects to work on?
AZ: Definitely residential. Commercial projects come and go but designing the way people live is more satisfying (and relatable) for me. Since everyone’s lifestyle is different, I think it’s interesting and challenging to work on projects customized for the client’s unique wants and needs.
AN: What advice do you have for future designers trying to figure it out?
AZ: “RUN!” …Just kidding 😊
I have three pieces of advice for young designers:
- If you can, start working at a smaller firm versus one of the big guys. Designers wear many hats and at a small firm you can get more hands-on experience, and in turn figure out what you like and what you don’t like.
- You don’t have to study architecture for both undergrad and graduate school! Research all the different paths you can take and figure out what’s best for you.
- Take advantage of the college experience—friends, professors, studying abroad, etc. The experiences and people you meet are invaluable (and also could lead to a future job!).
