Hedde Receives Women in Architecture Award

Principal Elizabeth Hedde, AIA, was recognized by the Connecticut chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) with the 2024 Women in Architecture Award, shining a bright light on what we've long known – that Beth's many talents transcend architectural design.

With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Beth has advanced the design of a broad array of project types, including Shepherd’s Run, the adaptive reuse of a former manor house as a boutique hotel; the Leo D. Mahoney basketball arena at Fairfield University; hockey team lounges at Quinnipiac University; a copper-clad events pavilion at Grace Episcopal Church in Providence; and the expansion of Greenwich Country Day School’s new upper school. Beth is committed to sustainable architecture, demonstrated by her work on a timber-framed lakefront family retreat, the LEED Gold-certified Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, and a new science classroom at Buckingham Friends School in Lahaska, Pennsylvania.

In just ten years, Beth ascended to the role of Principal. Her talent is reflected in the numerous accolades her projects have garnered, totaling over 30 design awards.

Beth’s impact extends beyond architectural innovation; she is a beacon of empowerment and advocacy within the industry. Managing both small and large teams, she is dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering inclusivity, particularly for young women underrepresented in architecture. She takes time to engage and encourage younger staff, empowering them to advance their skills and build their confidence.

Beth’s efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion at Centerbrook is bolstering its ability to cultivate a welcoming, respectful, and supportive culture. Her leadership has led to the selection of a DEI partner to facilitate an officewide dialogue, and ensures that her legacy transcends the buildings she designs.

“Architecture is an all-encompassing art. It takes design chops, communication skills, technical talent, empathy for others, and clear, succinct thinking. Very few have all those skills. Beth does, and it is why she is the leader of Centerbrook’s next generation.” Jim Childress, FAIA, Principal

Raised outside Washington, D.C., Beth’s architecture training began at the University of Virginia, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and the Faculty Award for Design Excellence. After graduation, she worked on theoretical projects exploring responsive public spaces and then practiced at a boutique firm in New York. In 2011, Beth earned her Master of Architecture from Yale University, graduated second in her class, and won the AIA Henry Adams Certificate and the William G. and Virginia Field Chester Scholarship Award. She joined Centerbrook in 2012 and became a Principal in 2022. Beth resides in Mystic with her husband and son.

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“Beth is an exceptional designer and leader with confidence, self-awareness, empathy, and drive."
Jon Lavy, AIA, Associate Principal

“Beth’s commitment to inclusive collaboration among team members makes her an absolute joy to work with. Even through challenging circumstances, she leads Centerbrook calmly and confidently.”
Katie Symonds, AIA, LEED BD+C, WELL AP, Fitwel Amb, Associate Principal

“As a young woman in architecture, it’s a relief to have someone like her to look up to.”
Tiana Kimball,
Architectural Designer