METROPOLIS Arch30 Boston: Advancing the Next Generation of Architects 

Boston’s next generation of architects, representing many of the city’s leading architecture practices, gathered at Payette for METROPOLIS’s Arch30 event; an inspiring day dedicated to innovation, leadership, and professional growth. 

The Arch30 program honors rising stars nominated by top firms in cities across the United States. This year’s Boston cohort reflects the depth and diversity of the region’s architectural community, bringing together emerging leaders from Arrowstreet, Beyer Blinder Belle, CambridgeSeven, Dream Collaborative, Flad Architects, Gensler, Hacin, HDR, HMFH Architects, Machado Silvetti, Merge Architects, NBBJ, Page, Payette, Perkins Eastman, Stantec, and The Architectural Team. Together, they convened for a day of connection, reflection, and forward-thinking dialogue about the future of practice. 

Led by METROPOLIS Editor in Chief Avi Rajagopal, the workshop guided Arch30 honorees through a dynamic, hands-on session designed to help participants clarify their purpose, pursue meaningful work, and navigate the complexities of their profession. Central to the program was a reflective Ikigai exercise—a Japanese framework for identifying one’s “reason for being.” Through thoughtful prompts and small-group discussions, attendees examined their values, passions, and strengths, uncovering new insights into how their personal motivations intersect with professional aspirations. 

Building Professional Community 

Discussions throughout the day centered on navigating complex project demands while upholding architectural vision. Honorees exchanged insights about mentorship, advocacy within firms, and leading with clarity in collaborative project teams. These conversations fostered a sense of shared momentum, one that extends beyond individual offices and into the wider architectural community. 

The program concluded with an energetic networking reception, where honorees engaged directly with program partners, including AirFixture, Arktura, Infinity Drain, J+J Flooring, MetroWall, Tate, Turf Design, Zurn Elkay Water Solutions. The cohort learned more about architectural products and systems that are shaping contemporary projects and discussed how and where these solutions could be thoughtfully integrated into active and upcoming work. By the end of the evening, Boston’s Arch30 architects left with new professional connections, expanded product knowledge, and renewed inspiration to lead within the evolving field of architecture. 

METROPOLIS Arch30 Boston Honorees