About

Karen L. Braitmayer, FAIA is the founder and managing principal of Studio Pacifica, an accessibility consulting firm in Seattle. She and her team provide consulting services to local governments, school districts, architects, engineers, companies, and individuals concerned with complying with federal laws and state codes, as well as simply creating spaces that work for the unique needs of individual users. Karen also leads presentations and workshops around the country to further educate professionals about codes, standards, and inclusion.

Early in her career, it occurred to Karen that as an architect and a wheelchair user, it was possible for her to make a unique contribution to the field. Her professional focus on accessibility and her advocacy efforts for inclusion have certainly done that!

As a registered architect, Karen was admitted to the prestigious College of Fellows by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). In 2010, she was appointed by President Barack Obama to the United States Access Board, a policy position that she held until 2023. In 2019, she was awarded the Whitney M. Young Jr. award by the American Institute of Architects in recognition of her leadership in civil rights for people with disabilities, social sustainability, public policy and universal design. In addition, Karen was named 2019 Person of the Year by New Mobility Magazine. Most recently, she was awarded AIA Seattle’s 2025 Gold Medal Award, honoring her dedication to supporting equity and full inclusion for persons with disabilities in the built environment.

Karen is also an active volunteer and non-profit board member.