2020 Women in Real Estate: Kate Tooke, Associate Principal at Sasaki

What is the best advice you have received, and who was it from? I adore the children’s book, Miss Rumphius by Barbara Clooney. The grandfather in the story tells the young Alice Rumphius that she “must do something to make the world more beautiful,” which she finally accomplishes as an old woman by planting lupines (spring wildflowers) in her Maine town. As a landscape architect focused on the urban public realm, I rarely plant flowers, but I hold this same tenant dear. Each project – park, plaza, waterfront, or other public space – is an opportunity to make the world more beautiful, comfortable, and inclusive for the local community. 

What recent project or transaction are you most proud of? Having grown up in Boston, some of my most formative memories include celebrations, protests, and events on the brick plaza in front of Boston’s City Hall. It’s been my honor to work with mayor Walsh, the city, and a talented team of consultants to revitalize this historic civic space as a welcoming and inclusive 21^st century destination. The renovation, led by Sasaki, broke ground in June and is expected to take 24 months. When complete, the design vision will bring universal accessibility, improved infrastructure, sustainability, and daily amenities to the heart of our city’s public realm.

What honor, achievement or recognition means the most to you and why? As a landscape architect focused on the urban public realm, I believe deeply in inclusive design processes that put the community first. Successful community engagement yields a contextual design that is both championed and stewarded by the community. The best recognition comes from a well-loved public space.