Jena Quast | Senior Designer

Initially intent on pursuing an arts degree, Jena was left wanting something more empirical and applied. She found the perfect marriage of arts and sciences in architecture. Knowing that her grandfather was an architect also added inspiration to her career path. “He passed away when I was ten years old, and I have some of his books and tools,” she says.

Jena would’ve liked to talk with him about the changes in the field and the movement toward greater sustainability, an important topic to her (and everyone at NewStudio). “I feel a duty—both personally and ethically—to integrate sustainable practices into my work, to safeguard the environment, and to ensure occupant health and wellness.”

Jena is quick to share her passion about using architecture to fulfill a greater societal purpose. She explains, “Opportunities to make a strong social or community impact that will enrich the lives of others, promote wellbeing, and provide a better quality of life, drive me to continue with the work that I do. Beyond project work, this is the same reason teaching has become an important part of my life. Of everything I've accomplished and experienced professionally, my time with students has felt the most profound and significant.”

Favorite Office Supply: I love a good pen.

What Most People Don’t Know About Me: In college, I sewed costumes for theater productions and interned at an art gallery.

My Favorite Vegetable: I won’t turn down anything in the form of a potato.

Where I’d Like To Visit Next: My husband and I would like to see a game at every Major League Baseball ballpark.

Education:
M. Arch, Boston Architectural College

Bach. of Design in Architecture; Minor: Art, University of Minnesota

Other Related Work and/or Certifications:
• Adjunct instructor, Dunwoody College of Technology
• Thesis Mentor, School of Design, Dunwoody College of Technology
• Mentor, University of Minnesota - College of Design
• Studio Reviewer, University of Minnesota - College of Design
• Thesis Reviewer, Boston Architectural College
• Assoc. AIA
• Construction Documents Technologist (CDT)