Podcasts
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February 2023
Chandra D. Robinson was featured as a guest on Architectural Record’s DESIGN:ED podcast, discussing research-driven practice, mass timber innovation, and the Portland Museum of Art expansion. -
Episode 70: Chandra Robinson
Chandra Robinson is a principal at LEVER Architecture, a Portland, Oregon-based design practice recognized for material innovation. She came to architecture by way of geology, physics, and kayaking. She is passionate about creating beautiful spaces that are accessible for everyone and enjoys working closely with clients to create designs that express their values.
We talked to her about one such project -- her work on a campus for equity-based foundation Meyer Memorial Trust -- as well as work on affordable housing, libraries, and more.
“Climate justice is the confluence of equity and sustainability,” Chandra says. “When we design for sustainability it’s not just so that the building owner spends less on utilities and has great indoor air quality, but also so that we do not inflict damage on other communities.”
Chandra references many opportunities to implement equity through design, including providing equal access to daylight and views and physical access to people with all levels of mobility. “I think a lot about the duty of the designer,” she says. “We are beginning to see sustainability and equity becoming part of standard practice.” -
Chandra Robinson is a Principal at LEVER and Portland Design Commissioner. A Portland native, she grew up with a great love for outdoor education, inspiring her to spend years as a sea kayaking guide and to study geography and physics. From an early age though, she was always fascinated by buildings and developed a deep love for spaces that felt safe, welcoming, and comfortable. She eventually found her way to Boston Architectural Center where she earned her MArch and found exceptional opportunities to work at firms of all sizes. Returning to Portland, she found her professional home at LEVER. First as an architect and now as a Principal, she’s led groundbreaking projects such as the Meyer Memorial Trust in Lower Albina. She is resourceful, brilliant, and dedicated to making her hometown feel welcoming, beautiful, and accessible to all.
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In this episode, Ana hosts Chandra Robinson of Lever Architecture. They discuss ways to support smaller-scale builders, the importance of proximity in sourcing materials, and balancing innovation with the immediate needs of community and client, among other topics.