ALICIA BELTON

Bio:

As Founding Principal of Urban Design Perspectives, Alicia Belton has over 27 years of project management and design experience working with corporate, public and non-profit entities. She leads teams through all phases of design and construction with a focus on collaboration to achieve equitable outcomes as well as community engagement visioning to develop project consensus goals. She currently serves on the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and Capital Area Architectural Planning Boards.

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How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?

I learned about architecture by watching TV and decided that I wanted to do this when I was in elementary school.

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What do you do?

I lead an architecture, project management and community engagement firm.

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What excites you in the work you do?

Because I own this practice, I determine that types of projects that we undertake and the type of clients we serve. I get excited about helping our clients see what’s possible. We partner in creating their vision that can transform their lives.

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Who or what inspires you professionally?

I am inspired by many things like nature, a beautiful piece of art or a building. These things spur my curiosity and creativity. I am also inspired by people who are making a difference in this world who create a greater good.for all.

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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

I recently served as Co-Chair for my church building committee. We have just celebrated one year of being in our new facility. It was a joy to serve in this capacity on a project that has everlasting impact for kingdom building in this community.

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Featured Project Name: 

University of Minnesota Robert J. Jones Urban Research and Outreach Engagement 

Center (UROC)

Featured Project Location: 

Minneapolis, MN

Featured Project Completion Date: 

2009

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Role in Featured Project: 

Architect of Record

Featured Project Description:

This adaptive reuse converted a 22,000 SF retail-shopping strip into an academic building. UROC’s mission brings the U of MN’s resources to address issues like education, economic development, employment, poverty and health has fostered innovative programs such as a wellness clinic, business incubator, teaching kitchen, art gallery and computer-refurbishing lab. Building amenities also include collaborative office space and conference center allowing UROC to full its purpose of service to community.

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Photography Credit:

Matt Schmidt