Rūta Misiūna

Rūta Misiūna serves as Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois Chicago and co-founded the architectural practice Misiūna / McCarthy, operating between Lithuania and Chicago. Her professional identity bridges academic instruction with hands-on design work focused on transformative reuse of existing structures.

Her educational foundation includes:

• Master of Architecture from Princeton University
• Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Illinois Chicago

Misiūna's research and design practice centers on adaptive reuse as a catalyst for architectural innovation, emphasizing material authenticity and meticulous detailing. Her methodology integrates collage not merely as representation but as generative design tool, while her exploration of Lithuanian collective gardening communities demonstrates commitment to socially-engaged spatial practices. Current projects span historic preservation in Vilnius, adaptive interventions in landmarked structures like windmills, and community-oriented spaces in Chicago.

Professional recognition includes:

• "Pillar of the Year" award (2024) for rural Lithuanian adaptive reuse work
• AIA Chicago Martin Roche Travel Scholarship for collective gardening research

Misiūna / McCarthy maintains active exhibition presence including the 2024 BETA Architecture Biennale in Timișoara, with work featured in Lithuanian architectural media. The studio operates as her primary creative platform, connecting academic insights with real-world design challenges across transnational contexts.