Kyle Spence
Kyle Spence
Kyle Spence is an architect, educator, and researcher dedicated to integrating cultural sustainability and resilient design principles into his work. He is the founding principal of The BAKLab, a concept-driven architectural design practice based in New York City.
As an Assistant Professor of Critical Design Futures and Computation at the David R. Ravin School of Architecture, Professor Spence teaches a range of courses, including studios, theory seminars, community planning workshops, and representation courses. His teaching philosophy emphasizes fostering innovative design thinking through a lens of community engagement and social responsibility.
Professor Spence’s research agenda explores the intersection of digital fabrication, AI integration, cultural practice, and timekeeping. This multifaceted approach is evident in his recent publications and presentations, including a paper on “JazzSpace: A Cultural Design Studio Exploring AI-Integrated Community Creation” presented at the International ACSA conference and his contribution to the Places Journal’s eight-part series, “Field Notes: Repair.” His essay, “Repair as a Paradigm for Design and Community Healing,” reflects on a community-engaged timepiece he designed and installed at an African-American heritage festival.
Professor Spence is a passionate advocate for design education and community engagement. He is a recipient of the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture Planning and Preservation Alumni Incubator Prize in recognition of his innovative design work. He is a participant in the UNC Charlotte Gambrell Faculty Fellows program, a member of the urbanCORE Community Innovation Incubator, and a recipient of the 2024-2025 Women + Girls Research Alliance Seed Grant. He is also participating in a design competition for the Mitchelville Heritage Trail, a significant Gullah-Geechee site on Hilton Head Island, SC.
Education
Master of Science in Advanced Architectural Design, Columbia University (2012)
Bachelor of Architecture, Howard University (2011)
Previous Teaching Experience
- New York School of Interior Design (NYSID)
- Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
- Florida A&M University
- Visiting guest reviewer at Columbia University, Parsons School of Design, Pratt Institute, Howard University, and the School of Visual Arts (SVA)
Explore his recent work
Repair as a Paradigm for Design and Community Healing | Professor Spence explores the potential of design as a tool for community healing in his Places Journal essay, “Repair as a Paradigm for Design and Community Healing.” The essay reflects on a community-engaged timepiece designed and installed at an African-American heritage festival.
Students Envision Celestial Timekeeping Devices | Professor Spence’s 6602 Representation 1 course challenged students to explore the intersection of digital fabrication and historical timekeeping practices. The final project resulted in the creation of unique, laser-cut celestial timekeeping devices.
Gambrell Fellowship Supports Deep Roots CPS Farm Partnership | Professor Spence’s commitment to community engagement is exemplified by his partnership with Deep Roots CPS Farm, a Black-owned urban farm in Charlotte. Their collaboration on a community planning workshop course has been awarded the prestigious Gambrell Fellowship through the Urban Institute.