Photos by David Ellis
Patricia Mutebi discovered her passion for technical drawing during her A-levels (similar to high school) in Kampala, Uganda, where she was often one of a few girls in boy-filled classrooms. Determined to claim space in a field with few African women, she pursued architecture at the University of Nairobi, where she developed a design approach rooted in culture and community.
That journey led her from Nairobi to a graduate program at Iowa State University. During her studies, she interned at Walt Disney Imagineering in California before graduating with a Master of Architecture. She kicked off her architectural career in Minnesota, where she soon earned the 2024 AIA Minnesota Next Gen Award for outstanding professional service, particularly in mentorship. Now employed at Snow Kreilich Architects, she works on community-centered projects that reflect her commitment to culturally informed design.
What moment confirmed architecture was right for you?
During my undergraduate studies, I worked on a vernacular housing project in Mambrui, Kenya, that pushed me outside my comfort zone. It sparked my interest in designing for different people, places, and environments, which I found fascinating.
How has your background shaped your design perspective?
I have always been interested in culture and the different ways people live. Here in Minnesota, you’re designing for Hmong, Somali, Western, and other communities in the same city, so what works for one might not for another. I recognize that you need to understand who you are designing for and shape spaces around their needs.
collected during Mutebi’s travels to Kenya—honors both heritage and craftsmanship.
What role does sustainability play in your work?
Sustainability is central to us at Snow Kreilich. From building materials to construction practices, and even what happens to the building after its current use, we consider it from the get-go. These buildings are going to be around for much longer than we are.
What keeps you inspired?
Mentorship! I was once the person who almost gave up on architecture because I didn’t see anyone who looked like me and it felt too expensive, but mentors and scholarships pulled me through. If I had given up in high school, I wouldn’t have been able to do or see so many amazing things. I want to keep that mentorship torch burning.
