Below is an overview of some of our current initiatives in this area.
SMR Internship Program
SMR Architects has established a transformative internship program in partnership with Rainier Scholars Program, University of Washington, and Washington State University, aimed at introducing BIPOC high school and undergraduate students to architecture. Since its inception in 2022, the program has hosted interns who conduct research on affordable housing developments, focusing on building evaluations, site visits, community interviews, and analysis of outdoor spaces to improve future designs and diversify perspectives.
Through the years, interns like Jyotika, Hebaq, Zing, Katie, and Leslie have contributed meaningful research and support to various projects, including studies of Yesler Terrace buildings and permanent supportive housing spaces. Their work has provided invaluable feedback from developers and residents, directly influencing SMR’s approach to future affordable housing projects while offering students hands-on experience in architectural practice.
To apply for SMR’s 2025 summer internship, please send your resume to rtakahashi@smrarchitects.com.
View the 2023 interns’ research by clicking the link below.
AIA-WA Council Scholarship Program
SMR, in partnership with the AIA Washington Council, recently created a scholarship program for BIPOC students pursuing architecture degrees at the University of Washington, Washington State University, or a community college. The SMR Architects-AIA Washington Council Diversity Scholarship was created in 2023 with an initial investment from SMR Architects with a goal of providing financial assistance to students early in their architectural education who come from marginalized and underrepresented communities. The scholarship offers students with a passion for architecture an opportunity to begin or continue their pursuit of a degree. The first scholarship was awarded for the 2023 – 2024 school year. (Pictured: the 2023 – 2024 scholarship recipients.)
AIA Seattle Design Festival
In August of 2024, a few of our staff members hosted the “Balancing Act” interactive installation at the Seattle Design Festival’s Block Party.
The installation invited visitors to imagine Seattle’s future through exploring alternate realities with “What If?” prompts. Festival-goers shared ideas on cards, building a balanced structure symbolizing potential prospects for our region. The creativity was inspiring!
Some of the thought-provoking “What If?” questions included: “What if housing was affordable to all?”; “What if you knew your neighbor?”; “What if you were given a storefront downtown?”; and “What if downtown Seattle was car free?”
Special thanks to our design team: Kim Anh Tran-Dinh, Brandon Milling, and Augusta Milford.
Thanks also to the Seattle Design Festival organizers and fellow exhibitors. We enjoyed exploring innovative designs and connecting with other professionals.
