America’s Hidden Gem (TM)

Hi readers! It’s #FutureArchitectFriday. A day to celebrate those pushing themselves to becoming licensed architects.

Name: Demetrius A. Carter

Hometown: Miami, Florida

Educational Status:

Florida Atlantic University Bachelors Degree (2015) Bachelor of Architecture – Bachelor of Urban Design

How would you describe your experience as a Black Architecture student?

I felt the pressure to represent myself,my family and my people…That I belonged and I deserved to be in the program.

Why do you want to get your license?

To build a legacy beyond my wildest dreams.

Biggest inspiration/influence?

My mom- For never allowing me to give up on something that I love to do.Gail Alexander- Art Teacher, took us to D.A.S.H. (Design and Architecture Senior High) and it changed my life.Frank Lloyd Wright- Always challenged himself to become better.Renzo Piano- Process of creating is amazingNorman Foster- Meshing the old with the new and making it seamless.Paul Williams- Black Architect in the height of racism in this country.Coach Joe: Famous speech about football and life.Grandma- Do stuff with intention. Keep going!

How important is representation?

In college I read an article that said that in the last 50 years, diversity in architecture increased by 1%. What is disturbing about this is clearly a lack of access and a lack of investment in communities (black and latin communities specifically).So what happens? People are in rooms that are not you SPEAKING for you. And that is a problem. At that point you really have no say in your future.

Favorite quote/poem/song/etc.?

Quote: “Great minds discuss ideas,Average minds discuss events,Small minds discuss people.”- Eleanor Roosevelt-
Song: All I do it win: DJ Khaled/T-Pain/Ludacris