LGBTQIAP+ architects have played a vital role in shaping the architectural world, blending technical excellence with a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social progress. In honor of Pride Month, we’re spotlighting five globally recognized architects who are part of the LGBTQIAP+ community and whose work has left a lasting impact on cities and culture.
This article celebrates their voices, projects, and influence, and reinforces why representation matters in the design of the spaces we all live in.
Philip Johnson
United States | Modernism and Postmodernism
One of the most influential architects of the 20th century, Philip Johnson was openly gay and played a pivotal role in shaping both buildings and architectural discourse in the United States. He was the first director of the Department of Architecture and Design at MoMA and a key advocate of modernism.
Notable projects:
Glass House (Connecticut)
AT&T Building (New York)
Seagram Building (with Mies van der Rohe)
Charles Renfro
United States | Public and Cultural Architecture
Partner at the renowned studio Diller Scofidio + Renfro, Renfro is openly gay and an advocate for LGBTQIA+ visibility in the creative professions. His work focuses on transforming public space into inclusive and dynamic environments.
Notable projects:
The High Line (New York)
The Shed (Hudson Yards, NY)
MoMA Expansion (New York)
Andrés Jaque
Spain | Critical and Political Architecture
Architect and researcher, Jaque is known for integrating social, environmental, and queer issues into his practice. As the current dean of Columbia GSAPP, he stands out for his architectural activism and experimental design.
Notable projects:
Cosmo (MoMA PS1, New York)
Diocesan Priests’ Residence (Plasencia, Spain)
Urban interventions and critical installations at major biennials
Olivia Chaumont
France | Urbanism and Trans Activism
Architect and urban planner, Chaumont is a prominent voice in France both for her professional work and her life story as a trans woman. Founder of Urbatecture and Atelier Cité, she actively promotes inclusive urban planning.
Contributions:
Social housing and urban revitalization projects in France
Talks and publications on diversity and inclusive cities
Member of the French National Council of the Order of Architects
Jane Greenwood
United States | Cultural and Institutional Projects
With over 30 years of experience in New York, Greenwood is an award-winning architect and co-founder of the Organization of Lesbian + Gay Architects and Designers (OLGAD). She is openly lesbian and a strong advocate for inclusivity in architecture.
Notable projects:
New York Public Radio headquarters
Studios for PBS and WNET
Renovation of cultural and academic institutions across the US
🌈 Why LGBTQIAP+ Representation in Architecture Matters
LGBTQIAP+ architects have made powerful contributions to public spaces, equity in design, and the transformation of institutions. Their work reminds us that architecture is not just technical — it is also political, cultural, and deeply personal.
From glass houses and urban parks to inclusive hospitals and classrooms, these professionals are helping shape a more open, expressive, and equitable built environment. Their presence brings fresh perspectives, challenges traditional norms, and redefines how space can reflect and serve diverse communities.
By celebrating queer architects, we contribute to a richer, more inclusive architectural discourse — and move toward a future where design truly belongs to everyone.
📬 Ready to Connect?
At IAC Studio, we’re proud to celebrate the work of LGBTQIAP+ professionals and promote inclusion across the design field.
Want to share other names or inspiring stories from queer architecture? Visit our contact page or email us at 📩 contato@iacstudio.com.
Let’s build with purpose and pride — together.