Taryn Sabia uses design to navigate complex challenges of the built, natural and social environment. Her 20-year career in architecture and urban design is anchored by a passion to involve citizens in actively shaping the built environment. Her diverse background in architecture, urban design, education, and community engagement has provided a deep understanding of the importance of context-based design, mobility, resiliency, and culture of place, and how these elements inform the design of an urban framework. Taryn served as the Assistant Dean for Research at the University of South Florida’s College of Design, Art & Performance where she now Chairs the Bachelor of Science in Design program. She teaches courses and studios on urban design policy, climate adaptation, urban form, urban transportation systems, design thinking, and citizen involvement in urbanism. Her research is committed to the merging of design and civics. Taryn has extensive experience building partnerships between community members, organizations, private industry, and government leaders. Taryn has advised numerous elected officials including more than 30 mayors. Taryn is a co-founder of the Tampa based non-profit, urban design collaborative, Urban Charrette, Inc. The organization is dedicated to educating community leaders and young professionals about sustainable urban design and empowering citizens to make their neighborhoods and cities better places to live. For over a decade, she served as Director for the University of South Florida’s Center for Community Design and Research. She has worked professionally in the field of architecture on projects focused on mixed-use development, historic preservation, and downtown façade redevelopment programs. Taryn has planned and facilitated over 200 public charrettes and workshops and has authored several articles about community engagement and urban design. In 2014, 2017, and 2023, Taryn led Special Sessions for the Mayor’s Institute for City Design program. She has presented numerous times at national, regional and international conferences and has served as Chair for the American Institute of Architects’ Regional and Urban Design Leadership Group leading initiatives for the Active City Conference in 2017 and the Future of Urban Design Education Symposia.

Taryn consults with AuthentiCITY Studio and holds a Master’s in Education from Harvard University, a Master’s in Architecture from Rhode Island School of Design, a Masters of Urban
and Community Design from University of South Florida, and a Bachelor of Arts from Eckerd College.