Professional Profile: Brian Stancavage
Brian Stancavage
Lab Design spoke to Brian Stancavage, AIA, CDT, associate principal with Svigals + Partners in New Haven, CT. Read more about his passion for hiking and National Parks, his new favorite coffee order, and his tips for sustainable lab design.
Q: How did you get started in your career? Did you major in your field in college, get an internship, switch careers mid-stream, etc.?
A: My career in architecture started during high school. I have always been interested in the arts—continually sketching out ideas on paper until I was able to attend a class where I could use clay or mediums to make it reality. It was through the guidance of one particular teacher that I discovered the path to a residential construction class, an initially unforeseen connection that would shape my career. In this class, we delved into drafting floor plans and constructing scaled models, igniting a passion for the creative process within me. This led me to pursue a degree in architectural engineering technology at the University of Hartford.
Q: What's your typical order when you visit a coffee shop?
A: Latte, but recently a café mocha is becoming a favorite.
Q: What is one important skill that all lab design experts should have?
A: Traditionally, lab spaces have been characterized by their white, structured, and somewhat rigid design. This layout is optimized for efficiency, with careful consideration given to the arrangement of lab benches, circulation paths, and support zones. Designing these spaces demands critical thinking to meet users' needs effectively. However, it's equally crucial to infuse creativity into the process. Encouraging opportunities for innovative design allows for the creation of inspiring environments that facilitate multi-sensory experiences. Laboratories need not conform to conventional, rigid layouts; they can seamlessly integrate into broader design concepts. By incorporating diverse textures and architectural elements, labs can evolve into dynamic centers of innovation, where creativity thrives.
Q: How can labs improve their sustainability?
A: Encouraging users to prioritize reuse and durability can significantly enhance sustainability efforts, especially when planning laboratory spaces. It's interesting to consider the areas required for single-use products like plastics and the resulting volume of waste generated. Promoting alternatives such as appropriately sized glass washes or compact dishwashers can contribute to sustainability. Recommending vendors committed to sustainable practices, particularly in space-constrained environments, is crucial. For instance, in vivariums, where single-use cages are frequently used, vendors offering pick-up and recycling services can substantially reduce water and waste consumption. Proposing such alternatives may not incur additional costs and can motivate clients to explore other sustainable or cost-saving measures.
Q: What kinds of hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?
A: Hiking has long been my passion, offering a much-needed escape after a demanding week. It's not just about the physical activity or the scenic views; it's about the mental and emotional recharge that comes with immersing outdoors. Each step serves as a clear boundary between the stresses of the week and the week ahead. Whether alone or with friends, hiking is more than just a hobby for me; it's a vital source of balance and rejuvenation.
Q: For someone entering this career field, what advice would you give them?
A: School doesn't aim to teach you all the knowledge necessary for a career. Reflecting on my transition from college to starting my career in architecture, I quickly realized the vast amount left to learn. While eager to obtain my license to practice architecture, I recognized the importance of practical experience. Without it, a license wouldn't suffice for effectiveness. I believe it's vital for newcomers to this field to stay receptive and ready to ask questions, absorbing knowledge actively. There isn’t a day that passes without new lessons, whether from ongoing projects or colleagues in the office.
Q: What is your favorite vacation spot?
A: When I was younger, my family would often revisit familiar destinations, from New Hampshire down to Florida. However, I've never been one to continually return to the same spot with so much out there to experience. I don’t have a particular vacation spot but, instead, a destination type. I particularly enjoy the National Parks. Each park boasts its own distinctive charm and grandeur, offering a number of awe-inspiring experiences. There is so much to see and enjoy which builds upon my hobby of hiking and enjoying the wilderness. In recent years, I've been fortunate enough to go on adventures that have left indelible marks on me. From witnessing the sunrise at Zion National Park, to the herds of buffalo roaming Yellowstone, and hiking to the glaciers of Glacier National Park—each trip has gifted me with lifelong memories and unparalleled experiences.