2025 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Lloyd Helen, RA, ARB, Cooper Robertson

“Lloyd Helen possesses worldwide professional experience and is able to bring that unique outlook to every project, giving him a full-circle perspective on architecture, urban design, and city planning that benefits clients and community members. With a collaborative approach to solving architectural and planning challenges plus detailed technical expertise, Lloyd is a highly valued and regarded team member among project architects, designers, consultants, and experts.” - Erin Flynn, RA, LEED AP, Partner, Cooper Robertson.

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? I’m proud of completing the renovation of the Marquand Library of Art and Archaeology at Princeton University — a major capital improvement project and sole structure retained in the footprint of the new Princeton University Art Museum complex. As Project Architect, I managed the schematic design through construction administration, overseeing design and technical coordination, consultant management, and on-site execution. While I’ve completed other projects from concept to closeout, Marquand has been the most consequential — in scale and duration, and in the level of my responsibility.

What is your top advice for someone just starting out in your field? Don’t be afraid to explore. Early career choices can feel high-stakes, but taking risks, even those that seem off-course, can lead to a more well-rounded and effective practice, and ultimately help you become the architect you want to be. One of the most valuable skills I’ve developed along the way is knowing when to ask for input, and when to back my own judgment. Being able to identify strong mentors, and knowing how to learn from them, has been instrumental to my growth. But so too has developing the confidence to take ownership, make decisions, and lead teams.