2018 Women in Real Estate and Construction Services: Michele Boddewyn, Boddewyn Gaynor Architects, d.p.c.

Name: Michele Boddewyn

Title: President

Company Name: Boddewyn Gaynor Architects, d.p.c. 

Years in your current field: 38

What professional organizations or associations are you a member of? American Institute of Architects, NCARB, LEED Accredited Professional, CREW New York.

What was your most notable project 2017?

RXR Realty Corp. selected Boddewyn Gaynor Architects (BGA) to implement a 34,000 s/f space for Lionsgate/Starz, the studio behind “La La Land,” the “Hunger Games” and “Outlander.” BGA was tasked with marrying Lionsgate/Starz’s layout, developed by their California architectural firm, with RXR’s new tenant design standards. We refined the schematic layout, produced the contract documents, and provided construction administration services within an aggressive timetable. Lionsgate/Starz selected an exposed slab ceiling concept in the open areas and corridors, to create a sense of height. Working closely with AKF Engineers, BGA integrated the distribution of the various MEP systems into a clean, rationalized look. 

If you have had a mentor in your career, who was it and what did they teach you? 

There were many mentors from all walks of life, some colleagues, some clients, and former employers. From each of them I learned about the importance of clear communications both up and down the relationship chain. I learned compassion from an HR director who coached me when I had to terminate an intern. Colleagues from large firms shared effective business techniques. There are always opportunities to learn more.