Jacee Kaczmar – Architect-in-Training
A 2022 master of architecture graduate, Jacee hails from Regina, Saskatchewan, in the Canadian Prairies, and just recently made her way to sunny Arizona.
Before receiving her master’s degree from McGill University in Montreal, she earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental design from the University of Manitoba. When she wasn’t studying, Jacee was part of the editorial teams for several college-level publications and swam varsity at her hometown university.
Jacee describes herself as future-minded with a passion for design research. She is particularly interested in sustainable practices and residential and interior architecture.
For more on Jacee, read on.
How did you become interested in architecture? From a young age, I was interested in design. As a kid, I would craft Barbie houses out of shoe boxes, collect paint swatches from Home Depot, and draw floor plans for my bedroom. This is where it all began!
Was there a particular moment when you knew architecture was your destiny? Somewhere in the middle of my undergrad degree, I knew I was going down the right path. The more I learned about the profession, and design in general, the more I felt it was right for me.
What about architecture drew you to the field? The idea of making a lasting mark in the world that people can experience for years to come.
What aspect of your profession do you enjoy most? The creative aspect, as well as the varied day-to-day tasks. One hour I can be reading building code, the next picking materials, and the next drafting a building detail or visiting a job site.
What has been the most influential/life-changing event in your life? Deciding to pursue architecture and applying to design school. It has led to many amazing people, places and opportunities!
Describe your family. I have one younger brother and a large extended family back home.
What was your most favorite/memorable job as a teenager? I spent two summers working for a florist. It was a lot of hard work but very fun and being surrounded by flowers every day was lovely.
Free time activities? Spending time with friends, staying active, cooking or baking, trying new restaurants, and catching up on TV shows or movies.
You’ve won the lottery, how would you spend your time? Traveling the world
Dream destination? The South of France, Iceland, New Zealand, Japan, Antarctica, Outer Space
If you were granted one wish, what would you wish for? Health and happiness for my friends and family
What is your favorite memory? Summer holidays with my family in Clear Lake, Manitoba
Proudest moment? Graduating from McGill University with my master’s degree
What is your least favorite food? I’ll eat almost anything!
Favorite movie genre? Action & adventure, rom-com, period dramas
What one life lesson have you learned so far? Don’t blink; life moves fast!
It’s your last day on earth. How will you spend your time? Enjoying good company and good food
Favorite Netflix binge? Ozark, Peaky Blinders, Downtown Abbey, Game of Thrones, The Office
Name two things you do every day. Drink coffee and floss my teeth
Favorite architect(s)? Peter Zumthor, Mies van der Rohe, Carlo Scarpa
Dream project? A museum or my dream home
Dream vacation? Bali or the South of France
The last book you read? I’m not the biggest reader, but if audiobooks count, “Sapiens” by Yuval Noah Harari.
Favorite movie(s)? Interstellar, Inception, Runaway Bride
Fireplace or bonfire? Both
Favorite free-time activity? Lounging by a pool or binge-watching a TV series
Beach or mountains? Beach
