Olivia Huber Georgakopoulos

Q: Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Oakland, California, and I’m really happy to be back home.

Q: Where did you go to school?

I graduated from Tulane School of Architecture in New Orleans. One of the best things I got to do at school was build a house (and I mean build). As part of the UrbanBuild program, eleven other students, our professor, and I designed, took through permitting, and built a house in two semesters. I can’t say that I’m ever going to frame a roof or install metal siding again, but it was such an incredible experience.

Q: Tell me about your family.

Most of my family lives in the Bay Area or California. There’s me, my parents, plus a bunch of amazing aunts/uncles/and cousins.

Q: What is the most interesting aspect of architecture to you?

One of the things I love about architecture is that we have an inherent relationship to it: architecture impacts how we experience our day-to-day lives, and in turn, we inform how it can adapt to us.

Q: What is the last show you binge watched?

Ted Lasso. I think I watched season one in just two days. Roy and Jamie are definitely my favorite bromance.

Q: What kinds of projects do you most enjoy working on?

I tend to be drawn to smaller scale projects where you can delve into the details.

Q: Favorite Bay Area hidden gem?

I haven’t spent a lot of time in SF since I’ve lived in New Orleans. One of my favorite places in the Bay Area, that’s maybe not so hidden, is the Alameda Point Flea Market. I love being able to reuse or reimagine solid pieces. One time I bought a painting that was so big I had to get an Uber XL to bring it home - worth it!

Q: What are five features you would include in your dream home?

A couch that I can sink into, a library for all my mystery books, plenty of natural light, beautiful views of the outdoors, and a lush garden (maybe the ability to take care of plants too… I would eventually love to be able to produce some of my own food).

Q: Where are you most excited to travel next?

Rome and Tuscany. I just went, and I am counting down the days until I can go back. Visiting museums, wandering, and eating pasta all day is my kind of vacation.