“In my work, no matter the client, I make an effort to look around the table and notice whose voices are missing or underrepresented. We then make a plan to engage the project by actively seeking out and empowering perspectives that are different from those on the design and client team. By looking at our work through the lens of different lived experiences, we can better move the needle on how our projects impact the wellbeing of their users and the broader community.”

– Tai Ziola, DIALOG Partner and architect

“Designing for equity takes intention. It is easy enough as designers to say we know what is best for everyone, we can envision their hopes, dreams, desires for the spaces in which they live they lives. It is easy to say – I am the professional, I am the subject matter expert, I am the ally. What we do know as citizens of our cities that designers all too often fail at inclusion. The diverse, quiet, marginalized, discordant voices – these are the true subject matter experts of our spaces and places. All people have a right to participate in the design of their cities, and we as designers have a social responsibility to engage in a broad and inclusive dialogue. That means we need to design our process with intention – the intention to go out and meet people where they are, to envision perspectives that differ from our own, to listen to ideas that may seem contrary to our vision, and to embrace uncertainty in the outcomes. To embrace equity is to lean in, to listen, to learn, and to work with diligence, persistence, and bravery; to check our conscious and unconscious biases each and every day. It is through this open hearted and patient work that we can truly embrace equity, and truly design spaces and places for everyone.”

– Jill Robertson, DIALOG Partner and landscape architect

“As an urban designer, my goal is to create communities that are truly inclusive and equitable, where all individuals feel a sense of belonging. I prioritize providing a variety of housing options, which encompasses a diversity of built forms, sizes, tenures, and other relevant factors. In addition, I strive to ensure equitable access to open spaces, amenities, and greenery, including tree canopies. Additionally, I apply a Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) lens that accounts for a range of identity factors that can impact individuals’ experiences of urban spaces. Specifically, I place a particular emphasis on understanding how women navigate and interact with the built environment.”

– Dorsa Jalalian, Senior urban designer

“Equitable designs are achieved by creating room early in the process for the design team, client group, end-users, and the community, to engage in open conversation. Cultivating this space for all stakeholders to share their stories, priorities and needs, while encouraging the practice of active listening, allows those voices to inform and direct the design in a way that will support and enhance the lives of everyone.”

– Mona Lovgreen, DIALOG Partner, architect, San Francisco studio chair