What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? As Pickard Chilton’s first female principal, I am proud to have had the opportunity to collaborate on many innovative designs nationally. These have ranged in scale from landmark office towers to timber amenity buildings. As a design architect my greatest satisfaction comes from creating a unique design solution that is right for the client, community, and building users. Most recently, this satisfaction came as we completed the design for the St. Regis Residences in Houston, Texas which will be unveiled later this year.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in commercial real estate? I have been very fortunate to work with an incredibly supportive team and group of clients during my professional career. Like most women in a male-dominated industry, I am aware that I am often the only woman in the room. This can be intimidating, but I received a piece of advice that has served me very well and allowed me to overcome that intimidation: Be engaged, be prepared, and be yourself. I think this piece of advice is useful for anyone. 

Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight?
“Adrienne Nelson, Pickard Chilton’s first female Principal, is most deserving of this spotlight. With an extraordinarily accomplished 11-year career, Adrienne brings an impressive record of achievements and contributions both in and out of the profession. In particular her career-long activism on behalf of women architects and her efforts in advocating for the emerging professionals community, makes her the ideal candidate for this appropriate recognition.” - Jon Pickard FAIA, Principal at Pickard Chilton Architects.