Lara Kaufman

Lara Kaufman has a diverse work experience in the field of architecture and design. Lara is currently working at Studio Gang, where they hold the position of Design Director and Sustainability + Climate Action Lead since January 2023. Prior to this role, they worked as a Design Director from January 2019 to January 2023, and as a Senior Project Leader from January 2018 to January 2019.

Before joining Studio Gang, Lara worked at Snøhetta as a Senior Architect from January 2011 to June 2017. During their time there, they played a pivotal role in projects such as the SFMOMA Expansion, a 260,000 sq ft addition to an existing museum, where they were responsible for all phases from Concept Design through Construction Administration and Close Out. Lara also led the Winemaking facility project, a 40,000 sq ft new building in Napa Valley.

Earlier in their career, they worked as an Architect at Tom Eliot Fisch from 2004 to 2010. Lara also gained teaching experience as a Lecturer at California College of the Arts, where they co-designed and taught a graduate-level visualization course for new M. Arch. students from 2007 to 2009. Additionally, they worked as a Designer at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill from 2002 to 2004, and as a Lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley in 2001.

Lara Kaufman has a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree summa cum laude in Russian Studies from Columbia College, Columbia University. Lara also holds a Master of Architecture (MArch) degree from the University of California, Berkeley. Additionally, Lara has obtained the LEED AP certification from USGBC (United States Green Building Council) and is a Licensed Architect accredited by the California Architects Board.