Member Spotlight: Mahalakshmi Balachandran

Mahalakshmi Balachandran
Senior Associate
McCullough Landscape Architecture, Inc.

What led you to the A/E/C industry?
Growing up, I witnessed major degrading and removal of open spaces in my hometown. This stimulated me to learn more about reversing this trend and rethink urban transformation. Hence, I enrolled in architecture school.

Why did you join SMPS and continue to be a member?
I’ve been a designer all my career. I moved around cities, and I didn’t want to leave the work behind. My firm agreed to start me off as a remote employee. We gradually decided to set up an office in the Bay Area. My mentor and our company’s President/CEO, Catherine McCullough, encouraged and introduced me to SMPS to transition me into a seller-doer.

SMPS has been a warm and welcoming organization. It has helped me to build confidence in networking and build relationships. As a member of the Membership Committee and Co-Chairing the Buddy Program I continue to do the same for new members. 

Favorite memory of an SMPS event?
My first SMPS event - PRC in Napa.

Favorite TV show?
The Bold Type

Favorite movie?
Freedom Writers

Favorite Book?
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

Favorite local restaurant?
I’m a foodie. Any restaurant that has good vegetarian food.

Favorite local spot?
Salesforce Park

Vacation spot you recommend?
Niagara Falls, NY

Secret skill?
Writing poetry

What I like to do most in my free time…..
Paint and propagating plants

How has 2020-2021 changed you?
This time has made me realize the value of people, time, and building relationships.