Isiaa Madden, Senior Architect & Director of Design at H.Q. Ltd. in Jamaica, boasts over 27 years of experience in architectural design and supervision of construction projects.
Currently serving as the Chief Architect for The Pinnacle Jamaica, Madden leads the design efforts for this ambitious project, which comprises four exquisitely designed towers, villas, and The Mangrove Club. The project recently commenced construction earlier this month.
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A passionate lover of art since her early days, Madden always harbored a creative inclination. She fondly recalls her high school days spent in art studios during lunch breaks, where her artistic talents blossomed.
She says, “From ever since I can remember I was artistic, both in 2D and in 3D, and wanted to be an artist.”
Madden’s journey into architecture began at the age of 14 when she interned at an architectural office. It was during this internship that Madden discovered her love for designing buildings, with a particular emphasis on the principle of form follows function.
She said, “I actually loved designing buildings and my way of designing is form follows function. I always thought of what I want the building to look like first.”
Throughout her college years at Howard University, Madden engaged in lively discussions about the relationship between form and function in architecture. While many architects adhere to the principle of function follows form, Madden’s approach has always been rooted in creating inspirational designs that reflect her love for art, shapes, and forms. She finds immense fulfillment in witnessing her designs come to life in three dimensions, from initial concepts on paper to tangible structures.
After leaving Howard University, she struggled with what to do next.
She said, “Picture a 26-year-old girl, who had just left school, and came back to Jamaica. I went online to try out the whole Master’s thing, but that didn’t work out and I came back home and got a job with Duncan Sharp & Associates to do my three-year internship.”
She attributes her success to divine guidance and the mentorship she received from industry veterans like Mr. Duncan Sharp. Under Sharp’s tutelage, she learned the administrative side of the business and left three years later to start her own firm.
“Mr. Sharp was a lovely boss. He taught me the whole administration aspect of the firm and then I left him to start my own little firm, H.Q. Design Ltd., which was in a small room underneath my parents house. This is when she began working with schools. She says just her and her computer.
After establishing her own firm, H.Q. Design Ltd., Madden’s career trajectory soared as she secured prestigious projects such as RIU Hotels. Despite facing discrimination and harassment along the way, Madden remained resilient, focusing on her work and pushing through adversity.
Madden’s professional experience spans a wide range of projects, including residential developments, commercial properties, medical facilities, churches, and hotels.
Despite the challenges of being a Black woman in a predominantly male-dominated field, Madden persevered with the unwavering support of her faith.
Looking ahead, Madden approaches the future with gratitude and a sense of living in the present moment. She says, “I actually live in each moment. I’m so blessed and grateful to be here.”
With a team of six architects under her leadership, Madden cherishes the intimate setting of her boutique firm and remains committed to delivering exceptional designs. She emphasizes the importance of faith and encourages aspiring women architects to pursue their dreams, finding fulfillment and joy in the dynamic field of architecture.
