SPOTLIGHT ON: Kendall Roberts, Associate AIA
Mez Joseph
Kendall Roberts, Associate AIA, graduated from Clemson University in 2015 and joined the Liollio team in May of 2015. We recently sat down for a Q&A with one of our newest team members.
How long have you lived in Charleston and what brought you here?
I have lived in Charleston for 6 months. I wanted to practice architecture in a city, but I also love spending time outdoors. Charleston seemed like the perfect place. I grew up coming to Charleston on vacation, and have family living here, so I was pretty familiar with the area.
Where did you grow up?
I am originally from Reading Pennsylvania, but I grew up in Greenville, South Carolina.
Do you have any brothers/sisters? Where do you fall in the “line-up”?
I have three siblings. I have an older brother, older sister, and a younger brother.
What area of town do you live in?
I live in the South Windermere area. I think technically it is in West Ashley, but I have found a lot of people refer to it as a part of James Island.
Are you married?
Yes. My wife’s name is Bekah.
What is your favorite thing in your house?
My Bike
What are the top three things you like to do in your free time?
Hanging out with my wife, cycling, and recently, playing golf.
Who or what inspires you?
I think I am most inspired by people who make great sacrifices for others.
Do you have any pets?
I have a German Shepherd named Luna. She has a TON of energy, so I walk her 4 to 5 miles every day. She is a great dog and a lot of fun.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
In graduate school I won a studio housing project competition, which got me involved in Clemson’s Solar Decathlon Team. I am very proud of the work that the team has put into the design of the Indigo Pine House. Also getting a job here at Liollio!
What building have you visited that most impressed you?
Peter Zumthor’s Koluma Museum in Cologne, Germany. Zumthor is a perfectionist, and it really shows in this project.
What architect or architecture firm most inspires you?
MASS Design Group is probably the most inspiring firm to me. Also, I am a big fan of Frank Harmon and Glenn Murcutt. I think they have a strong sense of Architecture and Place.
What architect or architecture firm most influenced you as a student?
Renzo Piano for his innovation in construction and building systems, and Bjark Ingles for his ability to clearly and simply communicate his designs graphically.
What is your favorite place you have traveled to and why?
Barcelona. Growing up it was known as the skateboarding capital of the world. It was really cool to go there and skate a lot of the places I grew up seeing in videos and magazines. Barcelona is also just a beautiful city in general. A great place to study architecture.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
Hands down, the people. I have learned so much (in a short amount of time) working with such a talented and really fun group of people.
If you weren’t an architect, what would you be?
I would probably be living in a van down by the river.
How do you give back to your community?
We are still getting settled in to Charleston having moved here just 6 months ago, so we aren’t that involved just yet. However, I plan on volunteering for the ACE Mentor Program, and look forward to getting involved with our church.
What about your profession excites you and motivates you each day?
The impact architecture can have on people is probably the most exciting thing about the profession. Architecture is problem solving. Thinking about my day to day tasks with that mindset keeps things fun and interesting.
What inspires you most?
Architects who really care about the places they live in.
What is the hardest part about your job?
Sitting next to David…..kidding! There are a lot of things that are challenging about my job being new to the profession, but that’s what makes it fun.
What style of architecture is your favorite?
I am a big fan of contemporary design, which I guess isn’t really a style. I really like studying vernacular architecture. I think it can teach a lot about architecture and place.
How would you describe your style as an architect/designer?
I am not really sure, but I hope people describe me as an architect/designer that cares.
What is a book you plan on reading?
The Craftsman by Richard Sennet
What is your favorite downtown restaurant?
I really like Persimmon Café. It is a little sandwich shop in a laundry-mat.
What do you like on your pizza?
I really like trying new kinds of Pizza, but my go to is BBQ chicken.
How do you take your coffee?
Not a coffee drinker.
What is your favorite food?
Seafood. Specifically, crab legs.
What is your least favorite food?
Cherry Tomatoes.
Do you prefer dogs or cats?
Dogs.
Do you play any instruments?
I played the recorder in elementary school.
If you could play an instrument, what would it be?
Probably the recorder. Not many good recorder players out there, so I would be in high demand.
What song is at the top of your most played list? Be honest!
Goldie, by A$AP Rocky….You said be honest.
Where do you go to relax, unwind, and meditate?
I go to the gym every morning at 6am. Not really quiet, but it helps me mentally prepare for the day.
Who would you most want to play you in a movie?
Leonardo DiCaprio or Denzel Washington
If you had one superpower, what would it be?
Flying.
What is an ordinary thing that you are incredibly good at?
I am pretty good at putting strings back in hoodies when they fall out in the wash.
If you could contribute to a charity, what organization would top your list? Why?
The Catholic Church. They are the largest non-government provider of healthcare services in the world.
If you were an animal, what kind would you be?
My wife says my animal twin is a Lynx.
What is an interesting fact that most people don’t know about you?
I lived in Taiwan for two years.