HMFH Architects
Intern Spotlight:
Aidan Mayer
At HMFH, we are committed to sharing our expertise with each new generation of architects. This installment of our Intern Spotlight series, highlighting the work and accomplishments of our dedicated interns and co-ops, introduces Aidan Mayer, a sustainability-focused intern through the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center Summer Internship Program.
This summer, Aidan collaborated with leaders of the firm to tackle all things sustainable design. His work included daylighting analysis, LEED documentation, and extensive research on tools, programs, and resources to reduce embodied carbon in design, culminating in a Carbon Conscious Design Workflow to help HMFH project teams minimize carbon impact in all phases of design and post-occupancy.
We checked in with Aidan to discuss his experience at HMFH and learn more about his plans for the future.
What drew you to architecture?
I always knew that I wanted to build things, but I didn’t think about architecture until I got to college. Specifically, I remember watching the episode of “Abstract: The Art of Design” that was about Bjarke Ingels and thinking, “Wow, that is exactly what I want to do!”
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I would call my design aesthetic Modern Biophilic Design. I am a big believer in the power of incorporating nature in design, whether that be optimal daylight and views, using natural materials like wood and stone, or even considering patterns and movements found in nature.
What’s been your favorite experience at HMFH?
My two favorite experience from this summer have been visiting project sites that are under construction and sharing my work with the entire office during a Wake-Up Pin-Up.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned during your internship at HMFH?
There are countless things that I have learned this summer, but the most valuable and meaningful takeaway is successful sustainability in architecture results from collaboration and sharing ideas with as many people as possible.
What is a piece of advice you would give to future interns?
It may seem intimidating, but ask as many questions as possible! This is the time for you to dive head-first into the profession, and being curious and learning from everyone is an incredible resource.
Do you have any plans for after graduation?
Right now, I don’t have any concrete plans. All I do know is that architecture is what I want to do, so finding a position at a firm that values sustainability as much as I do is my main goal. With one year of grad school left, I am extremely eager to begin my career.
We thank Aidan for all of his hard work and contributions while at HMFH and wish him the best in his next endeavors!
