The Virginia Emerging Architect Award honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the architecture profession early in their careers, whether through design, service, education, or advancement of social justice, equity, diversity, or inclusion. For 2024, Krystal Anderson, AIA, and Sheena Mayfield, AIA, will receive the award.
Krystal Anderson is a senior architect in Gresham Smith’s Richmond Aviation studio. She has 13 years of experience with project types ranging from historic rehabilitation and multi-family housing to aviation.
Krystal has been heavily involved in the AIA at both the state and local levels. Over the years, she served on both AIA Virginia’s board and AIA Richmond’s board. Through her time serving within AIA, she has contributed to the profession and community in multiple ways and capacities. She has been instrumental in many programs and initiatives that have elevated the AIA membership experience and have had a positive impact on the community.
Within the office, Krystal has focused on mentoring the next generation, cultivating office culture, and advancing the profession and design through the projects she works on. Through her volunteering and engagement outside of the office, she can build on those experiences and enhance her leadership within the firm.
Sheena Mayfield, AIA, NCARB, stands as a leading figure in architectural innovation and community-focused design, celebrated for her transformative work in affordable housing. Her project, The Planet Apartments, not only garnered acclaim with the Golden Hammer Award from Historic Richmond and Storefront for Community Design but also set a precedent as the sole affordable housing project in the award nominations. Her recent elevation to Associate at Baskervill reflects her outstanding contributions and visionary approach, which seamlessly blend thoughtful design with a deep understanding of community needs. Sheena’s ability to create spaces that resonate on both personal and collective levels underscores her significant impact on the field.
Beyond her design achievements, Sheena is profoundly committed to education and community service. Her leadership in initiatives like Baskervill Ask[U], which introduces high school students to STEAM careers, and her role as an Adjunct Faculty at Virginia Commonwealth University, demonstrate her dedication to nurturing the next generation of architects. Her volunteer work with organizations such as Art180 and Storefront for Community Design further exemplifies her commitment to inclusivity and social justice. Through her diverse contributions, Sheena Mayfield has not only advanced architectural practice but has also empowered marginalized voices and inspired future leaders, cementing her legacy as a transformative force in both her profession and community.
For their contributions to the profession, Krystal Anderson and Sheena Mayfield will be recognized with the Emerging Architect Award at the Visions for Architecture event on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott.
Celebrate with Krystal and Sheena at Visions for Architecture>>