ByD+ Carol Ross Barney

Carol Ross Barney – Design is a Right

America ByDesign is honored to present a special ByD+ feature on Carol Ross Barney, FAIA, HASLA, distinguished 2023 American Institute of Architects Gold Medal recipient. Carol’s work is driven by a powerful, singular philosophy: excellent design is a right, not a privilege.

As a visionary architect and urbanist, her unwavering commitment to designing public buildings and spaces has resulted in structures that have become cultural icons. This legacy includes the transformative Chicago Riverwalk, the resilient Oklahoma City Federal Building (replacing the Murrah Federal Building), McDonald's Flagship Restaurants, and vital Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) stations. Her influence has garnered over 200 major design awards, including fourteen National AIA Honor Awards.

“Great Architecture is not just about buildings;  it's about cultivating vibrant communities that inspire and stand the test of time. When design honors both people and the environment, it leaves a legacy of hope and resilience. I’m honored to share that vision with America By Design." - Carol Ross Barney, FAIA, Design Principal and Founder, Ross Barney Architects

ByDesign was privileged to spend a day filming with Carol Ross Barney in Chicago and capture some of her wisdom on film as a leader in her field. Executive Producer Mike Chapman shares, "I’ll never forget that warm Chicago Saturday by the river, being inspired and learning from one of America’s great design minds of our time."

Don't miss our ByD+ feature on her inspiring approach out now on the @ByDesign YouTube Channel.

We will also feature this in episode America ByDesign Season 4: Episode 7.