Today we’d like to introduce you to Sabrina Vogel.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up, my dad owned a construction business, and we built every home we lived in during my childhood. Some of my earliest memories are of sketching floor plans in crayon including my childhood home and my grandparent’s house, drawings I still keep today. In 6th grade I decided I wanted to be an architectural engineer due to my love of both math and design, but in high school was encouraged to choose one field only – and architecture was an easy choice. I then pursued my architecture degree at Va Tech in Blacksburg, VA and moved to Charleston two months after graduation to work for Herlong Architects on Isle of Palms (now Sullivan’s Island). I worked there for 10 years before beginning my own firm in 2013.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Honestly I still feel like I fell into a lucky charm. Architecture school was challenging, but really pushed my creativity, drive, and passion. I moved to Charleston not knowing a soul (except my high school prom date!), but was welcomed with open arms by my new coworkers who are still like family to me.
I would say the biggest challenge has been navigating a profession that is still predominantly male-driven. I feel as though every time I start a project with a new builder, I have to prove myself as a woman architect over and over again. Once we work together once, it’s pretty smooth sailing, but I know I have to go in with my confidence high when we start the project.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work focuses solely on custom residential architecture. I have been fortunate enough to design mostly waterfront homes along Charleston most beautiful beaches, rivers and the intracoastal waterway. I am most proud of the relationships I have developed with almost all of my clients in that we remain friends long after the project. Over the years, I have asked clients why they chose me amongst their interviewed architects, and surprisingly they all answered the same way….”because you listened to us.” Over the last 12 years, I have become known as “the architect who listens,” which I have to say I am fond of.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
My passion is guiding clients as we shape the visions they carry in their hearts, honoring the character of the beautiful sites they’ve selected and transforming those ideas into a home that can truly last a lifetime, creating memories for future generations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.slc-architect.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slcarchitect/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/slcarchitect
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinacochran/
