Biography
René King is currently an Assistant Professor in BFA Interior Architecture Program at Columbia College. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Wisconsin, an experience that ignited her passion for urban environments. Her teaching interests are wide-ranging, covering various aspects of design; civic engagement, social justice, and storytelling.
Her impactful work goes beyond the realms of academia. She has cultivated partnerships with a wide spectrum of civic institutions, in Chicago and her hometown of Kenosha, Wisconsin. These partnerships are rooted in her commitment to engaging future users in participatory design processes. René is also the co-founder of the Chicago Pattern Project and the founder of Pattern Squared, an innovative initiative focused on exploring the communities we inhabit to generate artifacts that stimulate conversations surrounding community and environmental attachment.
Through these collaborative efforts, she aims to foster enthusiasm, engagement, and a deep sense of agency throughout the design journey. Her ultimate goal is to co-create spaces that genuinely mirror the distinct needs and aspirations of the communities they are intended to serve. Her dedication to community involvement and the creation of meaningful, community-centered spaces is at the heart of her work.
Instructional Areas
Interior Design, Design of Cities & Social Justice, Lighting Design, Particpatory Design
Creative Practice and Research Interests
Design & Social Justice, Placemaking & Environmental Attachment, Participatory Design
Degrees
B.S., Interior Design University of Minnesota 1999
M.Arch, Architecture University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 2003