Lecture
Location
Abby and Howard Milstein Auditorium
Milstein Hall
Contact
Department of Architecture
Abstract
Strategic thinking, the craft of making, and a principles-based design methodology underpin the work of Architecture Research Office (ARO). In a presentation led by Principal Kim Yao, FAIA, learn how ARO integrates research and inquiry with informed intuition to consistently achieve design that elevates people and place. The lecture will address the importance of collaboration and engagement in creating transformative architecture and will explore the firm’s diverse past and present work and design methodology. Each attendee will gain an understanding of varied ways research can underpin and complement practice.
This lecture is designated as the Gensler Visiting Critic Lecture for Spring 2026.
Biography
Kim Yao, Gensler Visiting Critic
Kim Yao, FAIA, is Principal of Architecture Research Office (ARO), a New York City firm united by their collaborative process, commitment to accountable action, and social and environmental responsibility. ARO’s diverse body of work has earned the firm over a hundred design awards, including the 2020 National AIA Architecture Firm Award. Kim was elected to the National Academy of Design, and her contributions to the profession have been recognized with the AIA New York (AIANY) Medal of Honor and the Beverly Willis Foundation Mentorship Award. She was President of AIANY in 2020 and serves on the Board and Executive Committee of the Center for Architecture. She holds an undergraduate degree in architecture from Columbia College, Columbia University, and a Master of Architecture from Princeton University.
