INDUSTRY
WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
Building bridges Conversation with TPG Architecture’s Mavis Wiggins I became exposed to architecture and interior design, which took my understanding of shaping space to another level. From there, the idea of being able to influence people’s surroundings and the communities within was very appealing. These experiences have led me to where I am today—a Managing Executive and Studio Creative Director at TPG Architecture. I’ve been with the firm for over 10 years now and specialize in corporate workplace design.
Mavis Wiggins
M
avis Wiggins is an interior designer, creative director and team leader. For the past 30-plus years, she has developed a large and multi-faceted workplace portfolio with an emphasis in financial services. The Managing Executive and Studio Creative Director for TPG Architecture continues to draw upon all her experience to design successful spaces for her clients. With a client list that includes projects for companies like IEX Group, Assured Guaranty and HBO, Wiggins continues to rack up an impressive list of industry accolades, including the 2020 “Interior Design Best of Year Award” for Best Interior Designer — Corporate Interiors,” among others. We caught up to her to get her thoughts on the industry’s future, the opportunities for women in the growing construction landscape and the biggest item on her to-do list.
Give us a snapshot of the construction market today?
The construction market relies heavily on what our clients see for their future. In this post-pandemic reality, that means there is a lot that is still uncertain and unknown.
How did you get started in the industry?
I’ve always found myself drawn to the arts. In Northern California where I grew up, I was surrounded by a lot of interesting architecture and visual art. When I entered Pratt Institute,
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One of my ongoing goals is to bring greater awareness of our profession to a more diverse community. I want to continue to use my position in the industry to inspire and motivate those around me. What are some of the biggest changes you have seen over the past few years?
Recently, I’ve noticed that there is not so much disparity/distinction between the market sectors as there used to be. Whether we’re talking about the workplace, hospitality, owner/developer, healthcare, etc., collective ideas—including community, collaboration and flexibility— remain at the forefront. If referring to the workplace in particular, there has been a greater emphasis, especially post-COVID, on creating agile and flexible spaces that can respond to any changes our clients may come across.
