Emily Gruendel

Emily Gruendel is a Lecturer at the School of Architecture at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. She holds a Master of Architecture and Master of Science in Historic Preservation from the University of Pennsylvania, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Her professional practice focuses on merging creativity, functional design, and architectural heritage through research and experimentation. She is a registered architect in New York State and co-founder of MatterLab Design, a practice dedicated to material innovation and adaptive reuse projects, such as renovating a historic dentist office into a residential space in Troy, NY.

Education Background:

• Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania Stuart Weitzman School of Design
• Master of Science in Historic Preservation, University of Pennsylvania
• Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Research Interests: Emily’s work emphasizes overlooked architectural heritage and the socio-political contexts of built environments. She explores the intersection of historical significance and contemporary design through hands-on projects like temporary installations and design-build initiatives. Her academic research investigates underappreciated buildings at risk due to regional instability or neglect.

Professional Experience: Prior to her academic role, Emily worked at Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) in NYC, contributing to high-profile projects such as a China-based R&D campus, Philadelphia luxury condos, and NYC mixed-use skyscrapers. Her expertise includes construction administration and project documentation.

Awards: She is a Chick Evans Scholar Alum, recognizing her academic and professional achievements.

Practice & Collaboration: As co-founder of MatterLab Design, she leads projects blending research and practice. She also engages in volunteer work and design education, contributing to lectures and academic discourse, such as the Spring 2025 Architecture Lecture Series.