VALERIE W. NAGASAWA

PRINCIPAL / director
AIA, LEED AP

Valerie is a native of Las Vegas, Nevada—one of the few and the proud. She came to SLC to study architecture at the University of Utah, graduated with a Master of Architecture in 1993 and worked for firms in both cities before joining GSBS Architects in 2000. The daughter of an innovative educator, Valerie has a special interest in learning environments. One of the highlights of her career to date was designing her neighborhood middle school, which was subsequently attended by both of her children.

Valerie is always up for a good, long walk and considers this some of her best thinking time. She loves hiking in the mountains, visiting national parks, exploring cities, and hanging out with family and friends. Her besties are her husband, son, and daughter with whom she shares a love of great architecture, good food, strong coffee and just about any dessert.

Valerie’s focus is public architecture. She values designing spaces that all people can use and enjoy—spaces that are rooted in community and place. She leads GSBS’s K-12 practice and is involved in many of the firm’s civic projects, specifically city halls and public safety facilities. Valerie is a Principal and member of the Board of Directors of GSBS and is proud to be part of a firm who values diversity in people and all aspects of its practice.

Notable Projects/Professional Affiliations

• Japantown Design Strategy and Guidelines

• Murray City Hall

• Woods Cross High School Addition and Remodel

• Cottonwood Heights Municipal Center

• SLC Public Safety Building

• Natural History Museum of Utah

• Hillside Middle School

• American Institute of Architects

• Women in Architecture SLC, Ambassador’s Circle

• National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA)

• Association for Learning Environments, Utah Chapter Board

• Fourth Street Clinic, Corporate Council

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