Wendy Johnson, AIA

Wendy Johnson finds great satisfaction working with people toward something greater than themselves. Whether on a project team, in an orchestra rehearsal, or practicing Tai Chi, Wendy is drawn to supportive and inspiring communities. She finds that spirit in Centerbrook’s culture and in the camaraderie that develops when solving design problems and sharing creative explorations.

Growing up in Manchester, Connecticut, Wendy was drawn to math and science and initially studied civil engineering at Cornell University. An introductory architecture course changed everything. She switched majors and became immersed in studio all-nighters, building small intricate models, and discovering the satisfaction of shaping ideas into physical forms. After completing Cornell’s Bachelor of Architecture program, she began her career working on Florida’s breezy east coast before returning to Connecticut with her husband Eric, where she intentionally balanced her professional life with raising their children, Colby and Nick.

Throughout her three-decade career, Wendy has been motivated by architecture’s ability to improve how people experience everyday life. Seeing beyond executing a client’s expectations, she enjoys uncovering novel solutions. She has contributed to a wide range of project types, from educational and civic work to residential and mixed-use. When collaborating on design, she appreciates both the creative process and the team effort behind it.

Wendy’s outside interests reflect the same values. Playing the upright bass with the West Hartford Symphony Orchestra, she loves contributing to a larger whole through music performed collectively. She also practices Tai Chi, drawn to its focus on movement and mindfulness and the connection and energy within the class itself. Wendy values the rhythms of life, enjoying daily walks with her yellow Labrador Lucy and planning adventures with her family.