Norma Merrick Sklarek was a remarkable figure whose life and career reshaped the landscape of architecture in the United States. Her journey from Harlem to the forefront of design and construction stands as a powerful testament to resilience, talent, and determination in the face of systemic barriers. Sklarek shattered racial and gender norms in a profession historically dominated by white men, becoming the first African American woman licensed as an architect in both New York and California. Her work spanned iconic international projects, largescale civic designs, and influential teaching roles. Alongside her architectural achievements, Sklarek became a source of inspiration and mentorship for generations of minority and female architects who followed her path. Her legacy continues to resonatenot only in the buildings she helped create but also in her lasting impact on diversity and inclusion within the world of architecture.
Early Life and Education
Norma Merrick Sklarek was born on April 15, 1926, in Harlem, New York City, to parents who had emigrated from the Caribbean. Growing up with an interest in both art and mathematics, she displayed strong academic potential from a young age. She attended Hunter College High School, a selective school for academically gifted girls, where her aptitude for technical subjects became apparent.
Sklarek’s path into architecture began with a year at Barnard College, where she fulfilled liberal arts prerequisites that allowed her to apply to the School of Architecture at Columbia Universityone of the nation’s most prestigious programs. At a time when architecture schools accepted very few women, Sklarek flourished. In 1950 she earned her Bachelor of Architecture degree, one of only two women in her class and the only African American student.
Breaking Barriers in a Challenging Profession
After graduating, Sklarek faced stark discrimination in her job search. She was rejected by numerous firms, not due to lack of talent but because of systemic biases against women and people of color. Ultimately, she took a civil service role as a junior draftsperson with the Department of Public Works in New York City. During this time, Sklarek prepared for the rigorous architectural licensing exam, which she passed in 1954, becoming the first African American woman licensed as an architect in New York.
In 1955, her perseverance paid off when she was hired by the esteemed architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill in New York. At this influential firm, she worked on more significant projects and expanded her professional skills. During this period she also taught architecture courses, becoming a faculty member at the New York City College of Technology.
Leadership Roles and Major Projects
In 1960, Sklarek relocated to Los Angeles to work with Gruen Associates, where her career reached new heights. In 1962 she passed the licensing exam in California, again breaking new ground as the first African American woman to hold such credentials in the state. She advanced within the firm to become director of architecture, overseeing design coordination, staff management, and largescale project execution.
Signature Projects
- California Mart in Los Angeles, a mixeduse highrise project that showcased her ability to coordinate complex urban design.
- Fox Plaza in San Francisco, a major office tower.
- Pacific Design Center in Los Angelesnicknamed the Blue Whalea landmark multiuse facility housing design showrooms.
- The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, Japan, reflecting her international design impact.
- Terminal One at Los Angeles International Airport, a major transportation hub completed ahead of the 1984 Olympic Games.
- Mall of America in Minnesota, a monumental project completed near the end of her professional career.
These projects highlight Sklarek’s versatility and leadership across different architectural typologies, demonstrating her technical expertise as well as her capacity to manage complex design and construction processes.
Firsts and Recognitions
Sklarek’s accomplishments included multiple historic firsts. She was the first African American woman admitted to membership in the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and in 1980 she became the first Black woman elected to the AIA College of Fellows, a prestigious honor reserved for architects with exceptional contributions to the profession.
Her work garnered additional recognition throughout her career and posthumously. In 2008, she received the Whitney M. Young Jr. Award from the AIA, which honors architects who address social issues through their work. Sklarek was also posthumously awarded the 2019 AIA Los Angeles Gold Medal for her lasting influence on architecture in and beyond Southern California.
Impact on Diversity and Mentorship
Beyond her design achievements, Sklarek worked to expand opportunities for women and people of color in architecture. After retiring from practice in 1992, she devoted her time to teaching, lecturing, and mentoring young architects across the United States. Her involvement with universities, professional boards, and scholarship programs helped pave the way for future generations.
Founding Her Own Firm
In 1985, Sklarek cofounded Siegel Sklarek Diamond with partners Margot Siegel and Katherine Diamond. At the time, it was the largest womanowned architectural firm in the United States. This milestone further demonstrated her commitment to leadership and representation in a field where few women, especially women of color, had reached ownership status.
While the firm faced challenges in securing the largest commissionsa reality of the era’s gender and racial biasit nonetheless provided crucial professional opportunities and showcased how collaborative business models could thrive.
Legacy and Lasting Influence
Norma Merrick Sklarek’s legacy extends far beyond the buildings she helped shape. She broke barriers at pivotal moments in history, proving that excellence in architecture transcends race and gender. Her career encouraged others to pursue architecture with confidence and ambition.
Her impact is reflected in the fabric of cities, in the stories of architects who followed her footsteps, and in the awards and initiatives that commemorate her contributions. Sklarek’s commitment to inclusion, teaching, and mentorship fostered community and professional growth, making her a true pioneer in the field.
Norma Merrick Sklarek’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and leadership. From her early struggles against discrimination to her celebrated architectural achievements, she exemplified what it means to break barriers and redefine expectations. Her influence continues to shape the architectural profession and inspire future generations to pursue creativity, equity, and excellence.