Mamie Harvey

Alliiance
Principal

29 Years
in the Industry

How did you get started in the AEC Industry?

Early on, I combined my love for art and math by declaring architecture as my major at Washington University. After earning my undergraduate degree, I worked in Chicago before moving to Minneapolis, where I joined Cuningham. I then pursued my master’s degree at the University of Minnesota. I've been with Alliiance ever since—25 years and counting!

What inspires you to design? Do you incorporate any unique perspectives or values into your designs, and how do you think your experiences as a woman influence your work?

Design inspires me because of its power to shape experiences, connect people, and create lasting impact. I’m passionate about sustainability, equity, and collaboration, and I strive to ensure every project enhances the environment and the lives it touches. As a woman in design, my experiences have deepened my commitment to inclusivity and cultural awareness. I believe thoughtful, equitable spaces empower communities and reflect diverse voices. Collaboration fuels my creativity, and I thrive in teams where different perspectives come together to create meaningful, lasting solutions.

Who have your role models been? Have you had any mentors throughout your career, and how have they shaped your journey in architecture?

Throughout my journey in architecture, I’ve been fortunate to learn from mentors and role models who shaped my approach to design and problem-solving. I’ve witnessed the field evolve and have embraced both stability and change, learning to adapt while staying true to core design principles. My mentors taught me the value of being a cultural translator—connecting ideas, people, and disciplines to move design forward. They showed me how architecture is not just about form but about fostering meaningful connections and shaping experiences. I’ve learned to balance innovation with practicality, honoring both the technical and human aspects of design. I’m still learning and continually refining my perspective and skills. Architecture is a lifelong journey. With many years of experience behind me and many years ahead, I remain committed to creating spaces that are thoughtful, impactful, and enduring.

How do you think architecture can help address social issues, and how have you seen women lead the way in creating inclusive, equitable spaces?

Architecture possesses a unique ability to address social issues by shaping environments that prioritize inclusivity, accessibility, and equity for everyone. Equitable design extends beyond gender—it includes considerations such as physical disabilities, neurodiversity, socioeconomic disparities, and cultural representation. By addressing these factors, architects can create spaces that are truly inclusive and meet the needs of diverse communities. In my experience, both women and men have played pivotal roles in driving meaningful cultural shifts in architecture. I’ve often observed women leading the charge, challenging the status quo, and advocating for more equitable and inclusive design practices. Many men have embraced and supported these cultural shifts too, collaborating with women to promote equity. This principle applies to other identities as well, including age, race, language, and more. Progress in architecture emerges through collaboration—when diverse voices unite, we can create spaces that are accessible, welcoming, and empowering for all.

How do you see the conversation on sustainability going in our industry?

The conversation on sustainability in our industry is evolving, with clients increasingly setting more ambitious goals—from net-zero energy to achieving 100% positive water. While some clients may not initially see the value of sustainability as a goal, shifting the focus to measurable performance allows for responsible and impactful design. More than ever, sustainability is about restoring environmental balance and building long-term resilience, making it an integral part of forward-thinking design solutions.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far, and how did it shape your professional journey?

One of the most fulfilling moments of my career was leading the design of the Montessori Center of Minnesota. Having grown up immersed in Montessori education—my mother, Annette Haines, was a leading scholar and trainer—I had long been intrigued by its philosophy but had never fully grasped its depth. For my master’s thesis, I set out to unravel this "mystery" by designing a Montessori school, an experience that profoundly shaped both my professional and personal life.

Seven years after graduating, I was entrusted with bringing to life the vision of Molly O’Shaughnessy, the Director of the Montessori Center of Minnesota (MCM)—a project that aimed to define what it truly means to be a Montessori school. It was an incredible opportunity that deepened my understanding of how architecture can support learning. Since then, I have continued to explore Montessori principles in various settings, including collaborations with Montessori Partners Serving All Children (MPSAC), an initiative of the Montessori Center of Minnesota (MCM), working with diverse entities like the Mdewakanton Tribe, Morning Glory Montessori, and Centro Tyrone Guzman. The Montessori Center of Minnesota remains one of my proudest achievements, and this experience has reinforced my belief that great design begins with a deep understanding.

What advice would you give women just entering the industry?

My advice would be to find a way to balance developing both technical and soft skills. The technical aspects of design are crucial, but equally important are the interpersonal skills that allow you to collaborate effectively, advocate for your ideas, and build strong relationships with clients and colleagues. It’s easy to focus solely on mastering the technical side, but success in this field also depends on your ability to communicate, lead, and work as part of a team. Embrace opportunities for growth in both areas and don’t be afraid to seek mentors or support networks. Women bring unique perspectives to the table, and by honing both your technical expertise and your ability to connect with others, you’ll be able to create designs that are not only innovative but also truly collaborative and impactful.