Meet the 2026 AIA Pittsburgh Young Architects Foundation Chair!
Name: Anjali Gopalakrishnan
Firm: Perkins Eastman
Years in practice: 2.5 Years in the US, 2 Years in India
Education: M.ARCH From Penn State University, B.Arch from Kamla Raheja (University of Mumbai)
Why should young architects join YAF? You can build a community and connect with people who share a genuine passion for architecture
Your first job: Part of a research, Documentation & Graphics – at sPare( Sameep Padora & Associates) : (Re) Coding Mumbai : Rethinking Streets for a Walkable Future
Favorite building: Tube Housing by Charles Correa
Favorite Pittsburgh neighborhood to walk through? Shadyside
Architect you’d like to have coffee with: Renzo Piano
What do you like to do when you’re not working? When I’m not working, I enjoy planning elaborate gatherings and cooking generous, home-cooked feasts with my partner for our family and friends.
What areas of architecture are you most drawn to working in? I am most passionate about designing everyday living environments—particularly housing and shared commons—that are experienced by a wide range of people. My work focuses on creating spaces that support social well-being while advancing environmental responsibility and long-term stewardship.
As an emerging professional, what has been your experience transitioning from school to practice? The biggest transition for me has been moving from working independently in school to being part of a collaborative design team. It’s required me to adapt to the office culture, understanding expectations within each team, learning how to communicate, and balancing different working styles while taking ownership of my role.
What has been the biggest challenges for you especially as a young designer? The nature of this profession is that we work with a lot of unknowns — but starting out as a young professional, that’s been pretty uncomfortable. I’ve had to learn how to ask productive questions and getting comfortable with making mistakes.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where? I see myself as a global citizen and truly value the privilege of belonging to different places around the world.
Most inspiring city: Copenhagen, Denmark
What is a book that’s stayed with you? A tree grows in Brooklyn- Betty Smith
Architectural quote to practice by: Only architecture that considers human scale and interaction is successful architecture- Jan Gehl
Interested in getting involved with YAF? Learn more about the group here and follow them on Instagram to hear about upcoming events and programs.