Linda Ramsay, FAIA
Shaping the Future of Architecture with Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Linda Ramsay’s love for architecture began long before she ever drafted her first blueprint. Born in 1965 in the architectural mecca of Chicago, Illinois, Ramsay grew up surrounded by the towering skyline and historic structures that defined the city’s unique aesthetic. It was here, amidst the legacies of Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, that she first became fascinated with the built environment and its impact on the people who lived within it.
Determined to turn her passion into purpose, Ramsay pursued her studies at the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Architecture.
The works of Wright and Mies van der Rohe had already shaped her appreciation for design, but it was the forward-thinking approaches of Jeanne Gang and Shigeru Ban that truly cemented her belief in sustainable, socially responsible architecture. For Ramsay, architecture was never just about aesthetics—it was about creating spaces that could uplift communities and protect the planet for future generations.
Her career soon took off, with projects that spoke volumes about her commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. One of her most celebrated works, the Green Community Center in San Francisco, stands as a testament to her vision. With its LEED Platinum certification, the building is more than just a structure; it is a hub for environmental education and community engagement. Designed to integrate passive solar strategies, natural ventilation systems, and locally sourced materials, the center embodies Ramsay’s belief that architecture should work with nature, not against it.
In 1995, Ramsay Sherrill Architects was founded in Savannah, Georgia which is a 100% Women Owned Business and specializes in Historic Preservation, Additions & Renovations, Code Consulting, ADA/Accessibility & Aging in Place, Residential, Commercial, and Higher Education.
In addition to her work, Ramsay served as the President of the Georgia American Institute of Architects in 1992 and was elected as Chairperson of the Savannah Historic District Board.
Ramsay’s designs go beyond sustainability—they foster equity and accessibility. She understands that architecture has the power to address pressing social issues, and her projects reflect a deep sense of responsibility to both the environment and the people who inhabit these spaces. Whether it’s through affordable housing initiatives or public spaces designed to bring diverse communities together, Ramsay has consistently proven that good design can be both beautiful and beneficial to society.
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Throughout her career, she has been honored with numerous awards, recognizing her contributions to architecture and sustainability. In 2003, she was elevated to the American Institute of Architects College of Fellows and she stands among the most influential architects of her time, continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field.
Linda Ramsay’s work is a powerful reminder that architecture is more than just buildings—it’s a way to shape a better world. Through her designs, she has not only left an indelible mark on the industry but has also inspired future architects to prioritize sustainability and social impact. And as she continues to innovate, one thing remains certain: her influence on the world of architecture will stand the test of time, just like the great city that first inspired her journey.
