Caroline Bergin

SGA
Director, Interior Design

10+ Years
in the Industry

How did you get started in the AEC Industry?

My admiration for design began in my early life, inspired by the way spaces influenced the emotions and experiences of those around me and myself — a fascination that ultimately led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design at Virginia Tech's School of Architecture and Design. From there, my journey has been shaped by diverse work experiences at multidisciplinary firms, including Perkins Eastman, which enhanced my holistic approach to design, learning to consider not just how a space looks, but how it feels and how it functions for the people using it. In 2018 I joined SGA, and have become immersed in the world life sciences, and the intricacies of working on office spaces, amenity areas, and repositioning projects within this sector.

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?

I am driven by the ability of design to shape experiences, foster well-being, and create environments that feel both intuitive and inspiring. In every project, my goal is to create spaces that meet functional needs and resonate with the end-users on a deeper level, reflecting their values and aspirations. As a woman in the industry, I strive to bring a perspective rooted in inclusivity, empathy, and a deep appreciation for how spaces impact people’s lives. I’m particularly attuned to designing environments that support diverse needs—whether that’s creating flexible workspaces that accommodate different styles of collaboration, incorporating elements that promote balance and mental or physical well-being, or ensuring accessibility is seamlessly integrated rather than an afterthought. Thoughtful design has the power to shape culture, and I hope to create spaces that feel welcoming, intuitive, and reflective of the people who use them.

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

I’ve been fortunate to have many role models and mentors who have shaped my career in profound ways. Early on, my professors instilled in me a strong foundation of design thinking and critical problem-solving. Throughout my career, colleagues and managers have provided invaluable guidance, challenging me to refine my skills, trust my instincts, and approach design with both creativity and precision.

One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned is the importance of mentorship as a two-way street. While I’ve gained so much from those ahead of me, I also find great fulfillment in supporting and encouraging emerging designers. Architecture and design are inherently collaborative, and I believe our best work comes from an openness to learning and evolving together.

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 absolutely is a powerful tool for addressing social challenges - it can create spaces that promote inclusivity, accessibility, and community. Women in architecture have been instrumental in pushing these conversations forward, advocating for spaces that are more responsive to diverse needs. From rethinking workplace design to better support work-life integration to championing sustainability and social responsibility, women continue to shape the industry in transformative ways. I see this every day in the way we design—not just to meet today’s needs but to create adaptable, resilient spaces that will serve communities for generations to come.

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

Sustainability in interior design has evolved beyond just material selection—it’s now about circularity, carbon impact, and long-term adaptability. There’s a growing emphasis on designing for longevity, with a shift towards flexible, modular solutions that allow spaces to evolve with changing needs rather than be entirely rebuilt.

More than ever, companies are recognizing that sustainability and well-being go hand in hand. Clients are prioritizing healthy materials, biophilic design, and energy-conscious strategies that not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance the human experience. Net-zero and carbon-positive buildings are becoming more of a priority, and clients are increasingly interested in the embodied carbon of interiors, not just operational efficiencies. At SGA, we’re constantly exploring new ways to integrate sustainability seamlessly into design, ensuring that our work supports both people and the planet in meaningful ways.

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 so far has been joining SGA to develop and expand the interiors department. The opportunity to build a team and provide mentorship has been incredibly rewarding, not only in seeing others grow and advance in their careers but also in shaping me into the leader I aspire to be. This experience has reinforced the importance of collaboration, guidance, and fostering a supportive environment to achieve collective success.

Tell us about some of your favorite projects you’ve worked on.

It's difficult to choose just one project. But the ones that I most enjoyed involved life science repositioning - transforming outdated office buildings into dynamic, state-of-the-art research environments. These projects are particularly rewarding because they require balancing the technical demands of lab infrastructure with the need for creating inviting and engaging spaces that support the research.

What I love most about the work I do, and design in general, is the opportunity to solve complex challenges in creative ways. Each project presents a new opportunity to learn, collaborate, and ultimately design environments that make a lasting mark.

What advice would you give women just entering the industry?

Build and nurture your network early on. This industry thrives on collaboration and connections. Seek out mentors who inspire you, but also recognize that valuable lessons can come from peers at every level. Most importantly, trust your voice. The design industry benefits from diverse perspectives, and your unique experiences and insights are an asset. I’ve been fortunate to have role models who demonstrated the importance of perseverance, attention to detail, and maintaining a collaborative spirit.