“I believe that a well-designed environment has the ability to aid in the healing process and nurture the human spirit.” – Steven Langston
Steven M. Langston, AIA, FACHA, EDAC, LEED AP, Vice President of Design at RLF, has 35 years of experience as a designer and is a highly regarded figure in the field of architecture. Steve’s distinguished career has been marked by innovative achievements, earning him widespread recognition and a plethora of national, state, and local design awards. His journey in architecture was ignited by a unique blend of mathematical prowess and artistic talent, nurtured by a supportive father who provided the tools for exploration. Langston's dedication to his craft is exemplified by his continuous pursuit of excellence, drawing inspiration from influential mentors, architectural giants, and personal experiences. As we delve into the narrative of his professional journey, Langston shares insights into his formative years, the impact of mentors, the evolution of his design philosophy, and the profound satisfaction derived from creating spaces that elevate and transform lives.
Were there any specific experiences or individuals in your early life that influenced your decision to become an architect? My father encouraged me to become an architect due to my skills in math and art. He bought me a drafting board at age 12. I used to build models, but not draw.
Were there any particular courses, professors, or projects during your education that had a significant impact on your development as an architect? My first architectural professor, Alan Cook, still has a huge influence on me regarding the Bauhaus method taught at Auburn while I was there. In fact, the morning of the fellowship induction lunch, I was re-designing a problem he gave us that first quarter (on the steamed-over shower door in my hotel room). I tend to redesign many of the projects I have done from time to time.
Can you share details about your first professional job in architecture? What were some challenges and lessons learned during that time? My first job was in my junior year of college in Tallahassee, Florida with Clemons and Rutherford. They were not hiring, but I told them that I would work for free to get the experience. They eventually paid me a minimal wage which was $2.30 an hour. The first thing I was assigned was to clean up their old project files and drawings and catalogue them. I was able to learn the history and quality of the work of the firm and I have continued to do this for every other firm I have worked for since.
Did you have any mentors or role models who played a crucial role in your professional development? How did they influence your approach to architecture? I have had many both good and bad to either emulate or not. My most long-lasting mentors in the profession have been Tom Huggett and Bob Yohe, both of whom demanded design and technical excellence and an unrelenting focus on serving the client first. The largest impact on my approach to the design and service of architecture has been through the work and writings of other great architects: le Corbusier, Louis Kahn, and Renzo Piano.
How important do you think mentorship is in the field of architecture, and do you continue to seek guidance from mentors? Exceptionally important. You can get design in school and through research/reading, but the service of delivering architecture, for me, was learned through the guidance and mentorship of senior professionals. This included drawing, detailing, coordination, management, and marketing. The medical adage of “see one, do one, teach one” is the best way to learn and grow.
Could you highlight some of the key projects in your career that you feel have been particularly impactful or meaningful? My first favorite project was the Orange County Landfill Maintenance and Operations Facility I did with ADG. The second was the MD Anderson Cancer Center expansion at ORMC with RLF. Both are probably the closest to my personal aesthetic and had the largest impact on the users/guests of these works. The most meaningful was probably the Brown Art Museum in Daytona, just because the project type is the closest to what Architecture is: built culture.
Were there any specific milestones that marked turning points in your career? Reading Renzo Piano’s LogBook (a personal reflection of his career and work) in which he explained that before he can suggest what he thinks a client should do, he must first meet their needs and wishes: our profession is a service first, but our work can elevate one’s existence.
Every career has its challenges. Can you share some of the obstacles you faced in your career and how you overcame them? The largest obstacle for me is always the client (it is rare that you can do a building better than your client allows), whether this is aligning their vision with their budget, getting them to make the right decisions at the right time, having the courage to do something great, etc. The closest to a perfect client was Hyatt and Cici Brown when designing their museum. A dream to work with and for.
How has your design philosophy evolved over the course of your career? Are there specific influences or experiences that shaped your approach to architecture? Before my experience with Hyatt and Cici Brown, I saw our profession as Art first, not a service. Working with them changed my approach to designing an environment in a way that tells my client’s story, not mine.
Are there any architectural styles or movements that have had a significant impact on your work? I am a rationalist at heart, but the two buildings that still dwell within my mind and influence my designs to this day is Le Corbusier’s Ronchamp Chapel in France and Villa Malparte on the isle of Capri, Italy. Both are sculptural, rational, and exuberant; gathering the site to itself and then bounding out to the landscape as you walk through it.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects who are just starting their careers? Learn the basics of the business first (material use, detailing, documenting, coordinating/delivery methods, management, contracts, etc.) before you design. They all affect the ultimate solution and can enhance it or ruin it.
Are there specific skills or qualities you believe are crucial for success in the field of architecture? Passion, patience, and persistence. Passion for what we do, patience for the time it takes to design/deliver/build, and persistence to complete the vision. It can be exhausting, but ultimately rewarding!
As you look back on your career, what are you most proud of? Creating places that have changed people’s lives for the better. Healthcare is one of those “meaningful building types” that has the potential to impact people’s lives in a profound way… you just need to care, listen, and dream.
If you could go back and give your younger self advice at the beginning of your career, what would it be? Have more courage and find those great clients!