Founder and Principal of SDK Architecture
Background
For Sydney Katz, architecture grew out of a lifelong appreciation for art, history, and creative expression. Raised in a family that valued both the arts and entrepreneurship, she was introduced to architecture at an early age through her mother, an art collector with an interest in historic and contemporary buildings. Although her childhood ambitions ranged from becoming a judge to pursuing fashion design or acting, her natural abilities in art and mathematics eventually led her toward architecture.
A summer program at Pratt Institute gave Katz her first taste of architectural education and led her to apply to architecture schools, and she ultimately chose the University of Southern California. During her studies, she gained professional experience with Perkins & Will before beginning a career in custom residential architecture. She went on to spend years working at a firm specializing in traditional and classical residential design, developing her expertise in architecture, craftsmanship, and the details that make individual homes distinctive.
Leadership had always been part of Katz’s ambitions. Both of her parents had entrepreneurial backgrounds, so she grew up around people running their own businesses, although the idea of starting her own felt intimidating for many years. After years of professional experience and developing relationships throughout the industry, she founded SDK Architecture in December 2021.
Establishing her own practice gave Katz the opportunity to pursue a broader creative vision, one that brings architecture, interiors, and art together while maintaining the personal relationships she values.
Approach
Katz believes architecture should be considered as a complete work of art. Her interest extends beyond the structure of a building to include interior spaces, furnishings, lighting, and the artwork that gives a home its personality. Rather than viewing these elements as separate disciplines, she approaches them as interconnected parts of the design process.
Art plays a particularly important role in her work. As an avid collector, Katz naturally considers how artwork will interact with architectural spaces, whether that means planning around an existing collection or creating opportunities for pieces to become part of a home’s character. Her appreciation for art is personal rather than driven by recognition or prestige, reflecting an interest in pieces that resonate with her.
Her residential projects vary widely in scale, location, and architectural style. From renovations of architecturally significant homes to new waterfront residences, Katz approaches each project with an understanding that the design must reflect its surroundings and the people who will live there.
That philosophy is supported by a strong commitment to client relationships. Katz considers SDK Architecture a service-oriented practice, where communication, collaboration, and responsiveness are as important as the quality of the design. She enjoys developing something specific for each client, and wants them to be happy with what they get because it is for them.
Her creative interests also extend into the technical aspects of architecture. Katz enjoys developing drawings, resolving construction details, and selecting materials, but she is equally interested in the tactile experience of working with fabrics, finishes, and furnishings. This combination of technical knowledge and artistic curiosity allows her to approach residential design from multiple perspectives.
Beyond Design
Outside her architectural practice, Katz has an energetic and varied collection of interests. She is a competitive powerlifter, a passionate cook, and an enthusiastic art collector. Although powerlifting does not directly influence her design aesthetic, it is an important part of her personal life and often becomes a conversation starter with clients.
Cooking, on the other hand, has a direct connection to her work. Her love of spending time in the kitchen gives her a personal appreciation for creating spaces that function well for everyday use while remaining visually compelling.
Her art collection is equally diverse, including works by local artists, family members, and artists discovered through social media. Among the artists whose work she enjoys is Lucy Pass, whose paintings combine realistic and simplified forms. Katz also appreciates music across a wide range of genres, with Thievery Corporation standing out as a particular favorite.
Humor and individuality are important parts of her personality. Katz embraces her playful side, including a fondness for oversized hats and an appreciation for unusual, memorable imagery.
Sydney Katz on Art, Architecture, Client Relationships, and Building SDK Architecture
