2025 Women in Construction: Katie Buhl, Unispace

What is one project or achievement in your career that you are most proud of, and how did it impact your organization or community?

One of the highlights of my career has been working with repeat clients. Building long-term relationships and helping a company transition from one space to the next is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a powerful feeling to take a company that hasn’t renovated its office in 30 years, help build an entirely new space, and grow the relationship into multiple projects. A design superpower is when clients return and want to do more with us. When they recognize the value we bring and want to continue working together - it’s a testament to the quality of our work and the strength of our partnership.

What trends or innovations do you believe will shape the future of your field, and how are you positioning yourself (or your firm) to be at the forefront?

AI is one of the most transformative tools in design today, offering automation and streamlined workflows. However, it should enhance, not replace, the collaboration that drives creativity. To stay at the forefront, we focus on integrating AI with diverse perspectives, feedback, and new communication methods. Collaboration — through charettes, conversations, and cross-disciplinary input — remains the spark of innovation. By balancing technology with human connection, we ensure designs are not only creative but also functional, sustainable, and reflective of varied viewpoints.

Do you have a hidden talent or a surprising fact about yourself that most people wouldn’t know?

I run a quilting group dedicated to upcycling textiles into stunning quilts called NYC Sewciety.