To celebrate International Women’s Day 2026, which took place on 8 March, BE News is running a series of interviews with inspirational women who work across the built environment sector
Name: Rebecca Martin
Job title: Associate architect at Barr Gazetas
What I do: As an architect, I have worked on a broad range of great buildings. With a keen eye for detail and design quality, and strong technical knowledge, I enjoy delivering complex projects. In recent years, however, my focus widened to include interior design and inclusiveness. I lead Barr Gazetas’ EDI forum and provide visible leadership for equity, diversity and inclusion in relation to both our practice and our projects.
Why I got into the property industry: I have always been deeply affected by the spaces around me, even as a child. I soon decided I wanted to shape the environment to make it welcoming and fun for all, so I became an architect. And I have never looked back.
How I did it: I have always followed my heart and my values, as well as strived to learn new skills and explore different angles. Having come to the UK from Germany (as a child of the European Union, I felt the whole of Europe was my home) I studied architecture at Nottingham University, before moving to London to find work.
My first proper job: My first proper job as a qualified architect was at BDP. There, over the course of 13 years, I worked on some really interesting projects, including several schools. My favourite thing about this job was the multi-disciplinary way of working – awesome engineers, landscape architects, interior designers, etc. closely at hand to collaborate with, and the significant, complex buildings we designed and built together.
My first big break: During my university work experience, I worked for the late Guenter Behnisch in Stuttgart. Behnisch was a very highly regarded architect in Germany and a hero of mine. During that year, I had so much fun and learnt so much, working in a highly creative environment, with exceptional design standards and talented individuals.
My inspiration(s): The architect Guenter Behnisch has been a major inspiration for me in terms of architectural design. But it’s the little things in life that continue to inspire me on a daily basis. The kind, clever and creative people around me, beautiful buildings, intricate cities and nature in all its complexities.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: Parenthood (biggest challenge and biggest joy).
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: I have always enjoyed seeing my designs and detailing become reality on a building site. It’s always a proud moment when a building is completed and you see people move in and enjoy the spaces. Most recently though, it gave me a warm feeling when a colleague at Barr Gazetas told me that the work I do to increase awareness and to promote diversity and inclusion had made a real difference. At Barr Gazetas, we strive to provide an environment that is inclusive, welcoming and safe, and it is great to hear that staff feel they can be themselves.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: I think there may be a misconception amongst some that property is all about money and profits, and probably for many it is just that. An equally large proportion of immensely passionate professionals, however, are driven by a genuine desire to create beautiful homes, places to work and sustainable communities. At Barr Gazetas, we listen first, then challenge, to ensure responsible outcomes with integrity and ambition.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: I am really looking forward to seeing the current shift towards equity, diversity and inclusion develop to becoming a core value in the property industry. They are essential for creating a thriving business, and affect all of us. And as for networking – many events are shaped by and attended mostly by men. We need more diverse and inclusive opportunities to meet likeminded professionals and foster closer collaborations.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: Real passion tends to be born out of personal experiences. I am extremely proud of my amazing neurodiverse, LBGTQIA+ identifying children. As a family we have been through some difficult times during their teenage years, because our society is not always accepting. We got through it by opening our minds and celebrating their authentic selves. Diversity is what makes life beautiful and interesting.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: I want to keep designing and building amazing, welcoming spaces for all. I hope to collaborate with an even wider range of great people and always continue learning.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: Jacinda Ardern – I admire her empathetic leadership style. And really, I most enjoy being around my friends and family, so they definitely need to be there.
What I do in my downtime: I like to relax in an exercise class, or immerse myself in art and nature. Catching up on sleep is also great!
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: It would have to be something creative and social, maybe in film or photography. But I find it difficult to imagine not being an architect.
My advice for someone just starting out: Have fun and explore all possibilities! Stay creative. There are so many facets to this industry, it is up to you what you make of it. Find your niche and make a difference, your way.
My motto/mantra: Keep Learning. Open your mind. Be kind. Inclusion is for everyone. But most of all… have fun.
