Honoree Profile
Noel Keesee
Gensler
- Title: Senior Associate
- Tenure at Firm: 11 Years
- Nominating Principal: Christopher Baglino, Senior Associate | Studio Manager | Design Director
- School: Florida State University
- Credentials: NCIDQ, RID, IIDA
Inspired By:
Travel is a constant source of inspiration in my life, as it continually expands my perspective and deepens my understanding of the world. Experiencing different cultures encourages curiosity, empathy, and adaptability—qualities that strongly inform how I approach my work. I am particularly inspired by artisans across disciplines such as jewelry, pottery, and fine art, whose creations reflect a mastery of craft and a deep sense of intention. Their work is a reminder that the most enduring and impactful outcomes are those shaped by cultural insight, attention to craft, and a genuine human spirit.
What makes architecture and design in Tampa Bay unique or interesting:
Tampa Bay is experiencing dynamic urban growth – the projects of today and tomorrow are reshaping our skylines and redefining the fabric of the city. As architects and designers, we have an incredible opportunity to create meaningful and long-standing impact to our community, driving human-centric design, sustainability, and a strong sense of place that is uniquely Tampa Bay.
Keys to a Successful Project:
A successful project is anchored by a clear purpose that acts as a north star—guiding direction and providing a consistent measure for design decisions. Paired with a well-defined process and organizational framework, this clarity creates alignment while freeing the team to collaborate openly and focus on creative excellence.
A successful project is anchored by a clear purpose that acts as a north star—guiding direction and providing a consistent measure for design decisions. Paired with a well-defined process and organizational framework, this clarity creates alignment while freeing the team to collaborate openly and focus on creative excellence.
“Noel exemplifies the spirit of this recognition—visionary leadership, meaningful impact, and arelentless commitment to design excellence.
Noel’s greatest strength—and her truesuperpower—is her ability to connect people,process, and purpose. She is not only shaping thebuilt environment but also enriching the future ofTampa’s design community.”
Christopher Baglino
Senior Associate | Studio Manager | Design Director
Favorite Haworth Collection Piece:
Eternity Chair
What Is Special About It:
I’m intrigued by the innovation and sustainability behind the Eternity chair. It’s simple and sleek in it’s design, creating an inviting chair that’s designed for disassembly using recycled materials.
