WOMEN TO WATCH

Sarah Bennings

Architect & Principal
Polk Stanley Wilcox

I hold a bachelor’s of architecture from the University of Arkansas and a master’s degree in urban design from Washington University in St. Louis. I am a licensed architect and principal with Polk Stanley Wilcox. I have been with the firm for more than 20 years leading highly complex projects with a primary focus on K-12 and higher education facilities.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

Best advice I ever received

“Success is on the other side of fear.” Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. You’ll be surprised what you are capable of when you push fear out of the way.

How I knew this was my passion

I’m happily following in my father’s footsteps as an architect. He gave me a love for drawing and a deep respect for our built environment from an early age.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

Precision. Mistakes cost time and money. Being meticulous and precise when communicating design intent is of utmost importance in producing a successful project.

What I learned from my first job

The importance of self-management. I learned to be someone who works with urgency, takes initiative and seeks out solutions.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

I walk two to three miles every day, no AirPods or phone. Being outside and listening to nature is when I can let my mind wander and let go of daily stresses.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

Architecture is a lot more than drawing and design. It's about coordination, problem solving and communication. Every building is new and unique, so there is never a one-size-fits-all solution.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Rotary. There are several clubs in Little Rock, each with a different service focus. It is a great way to meet people and give back to the community.

Thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Talk about it. I learn something new everyday from the awesome people I am privileged to work with.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

People. Both the people I work with and the clients we serve. We are all like family and are devoted to creating great designs for our clients across Arkansas.

Best career moment so far

Each time a project is completed and clients move in, those are the best moments of my career. I love to see how excited people are with their new space.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Little Rock

I can’t start my day until

I pet my fur babies

Hobbies

Gardening, piano

Binge watch

“Outlander”

Last good read

“Fourth Wing” series by Rebecca Yarros

Favorite meal in town

Lobster ravioli from Milano’s

Best recent local discovery

Breckenridge Village

Latest splurge

Anything Ann Taylor

Most-used app

Chick-fil-A online ordering

Dream vacation

Scotland and Ireland

SPONSORS