Sawyer Davies

Education

Bachelor of Urban and Environmental Planning, University of Virginia
Master of Architecture, University of Virginia
Master of Landscape Architecture, University of Virginia

Biography

Sawyer is a designer and educator across both Landscape Architecture and Architecture – currently teaching as a Lecturer in the Architecture Department. His projects seek to blur and entangle the distinctions between what are often confined professionally within the regular contours of Landscape or Architecture. Sawyer approaches design with sensitivity, care, and elegance. His work responds to the complex social, ecological, and historical narratives that comprise spaces, critically engaging multiplicity rather than imposing a singular story. He thrives in the in-between spaces, the leftovers, the special moments, and the “it can’t be done”. He believes that spaces never have users, rather relationships, communities, and processes. 

Sawyer is a recent graduate receiving both his Masters of Architecture and Masters of Landscape Architecture from the University of Virginia. His teaching experience includes work across three departments at the Architecture School and the school’s Summer Design Institute. During his time as a student, he worked as an editor for the school’s design journal, LUNCH, helping publish the 17th edition. His professional experience features time at Andrea Cochran Landscape Architecture, D.I.R.T Studio, and other celebrated design firms. Additionally, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban and Environmental Planning from UVA. 

When he’s not designing, you are likely to find him kicking a soccer ball with a few friends, feverishly competing over an inconsequential chess game, perfecting a recipe, or trying to appease at least one of his cats.