Our Team
WE ARE UNITED BY DESIGN
Our diverse perspectives nurture and strengthen our shared vision for a better tomorrow
What makes us unique?
We believe in a client-centered, collaborative approach to architecture. Our process and culture, built from our generalist experience, enables co-authoring and fully realized shared vision with our clients. We not only build buildings, we build bonds between people and projects, between our clients and their communities.
Partner with us.Meet the team that’s
shaping our future
Tusher Alam
Senior Project Accountant
Tusher has loved working with numbers since kindergarten and fell in love with accounting through his high school and college courses. This lifelong passion for numbers paired with exceptional attention to detail ensures accurate and timely completion of accounting activity.
In his spare time, he likes to watch and play basketball. An avid fan—Tusher tries to keep up with sports as much as possible.
Education
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, Fox School of Business, Temple University
Joseph Alperstein
AIA
Construction Administration Consultant
Following his retirement in 2025, Joe remains an important part of KSS Architects. As a construction administration consultant, he continues to mentor colleagues and share his deep understanding of professional tools, building systems, and the relationship between program, technology, and construction in support of design. He also continues to shepherd the smooth implementation of projects through the construction process.
During his 29-year career with KSS Architects, Joe managed some of the firm’s largest and most complex projects. His extensive technical experience in the office, combined with hands-on project management in the field, informed his ability to evaluate and validate design concepts throughout the construction process.
Joe was inspired to become an architect by his father, an electrical engineer. Early on, he recognized that when things are built according to sound principles, they hold together; without them, they fail. He has also long been drawn to pattern design. Influenced by designers such as Charles and Ray Eames and Massimo Vignelli, he co-founded the graphic design company Trimorphos.com in 2000. His work has been published in The New York Times, Greetings, etc., and numerous trade journals.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Valedictorian, New York Institute of Technology
- Independent Study and Guest Critic at Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, New Jersey
- American Institute of Architecture
Honors + Awards
- Gold Medal for Architectural Design
- American Institute of Architects Henry Adams Medal
Elizabeth Anderson
After interning at KSS for two summers during graduate school, Elizabeth graduated with her Master of Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania and joined the team full-time. She is passionate about architecture’s ability to affect change at a local and global scale. Elizabeth has lived in several different countries, cultures, and communities, all of which have contributed to her interest in architecture. She is drawn to architecture as a means to bridge her passion for design and desire to create a physical and tangible impact on the communities that have affected her life. From being a student-athlete in college to serving as a co-chair for Penn Women in Design in graduate school, Elizabeth values the importance of teamwork, communication, and drive. In her spare time, Elizabeth enjoys cooking, volunteering, being active outdoors, and being creative with different art mediums such as painting and photography.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor of Art in Architecture, Lehigh University
Publications + Presentations
- Featured in Pressing Matters 10, University of Pennsylvania
Susan Banchek
Marketing Coordinator
Recently joining KSS as a Marketing Coordinator, Susan brings a background in brand management from an architectural salvage supplier, where she developed expertise in sustainable materials and gained valuable insights into architecture and design projects. Passionate about aesthetics, Susan loves applying her visual acumen to create more beautiful spaces. She is excited to contribute to KSS’s innovative work, particularly in educational environments. Outside the office, she enjoys making dresses and gardening, activities that fuel her creativity through color and texture.
Education
- Bachelor of Fine Arts, University of Cincinnati
- Associate in Applied Science, Fashion Design, Fashion Institute of Technology
Paige Bradley
Associate
Paige’s expertise is in operations and office management. In her previous position at a commercial real estate firm, Paige supported total market operations, contributing to business development, recruitment, finances, office planning, and various institutional and cultural initiatives. She loves being the “go-to” person and a resource for others. In her role as office manager, Paige enjoys working and learning from a broad cross-section of people to promote the overall efficiency and success of the firm. In her free time, Paige loves a good game of Bananagrams or Scrabble (especially when she beats her husband), is an avid animal lover, and is the “momager” of her rescue dog Stacy’s Instagram page (follow @silly.stacy.pup for adorable content).
Education
- Bachelor of Fine Arts, Boston University
Professional Affiliations
- Notary Commission, Pennsylvania
Alexandra Briceno
Accounting Manager
Alexandra has over a decade of experience in Accounting and Human Resources, with a specialized focus on Forensic Accountancy. She is passionate about utilizing her forensic accounting skills to develop plans and strategies to elevate projects and the firm’s success. Alexandra chose accounting because she loves to decode numbers, helping companies make informed decisions, much like architects do with their detailed and innovative designs. Alexandra finds excitement in contributing to innovative project designs through effective economic and financial management practices. Outside of work, she is an avid fisherwoman and enjoys skydiving and salsa dancing.
Education
- Bachelor in Business Administration, St. John's University
Professional Affiliations
- Society for Human Resource Management
- SHRM of Central NJ Chapter Somerset #0142
- Sociedad Colombiana de Arquitectos, Cali Colombia SCA (Colombian Society of Architects)
Angelo Capobianco
RA, WELL AP
Angelo is motivated by the opportunity to make an impact by creating spaces that people not only want and need but will also come to know and love. He is drawn to architecture because it is creative yet grounded in problem-solving, allowing him to make tangible, positive change in people’s lives. Angelo has worked through all phases of design, from Schematic Design through Construction Administration, on projects across markets including education, industrial, retail, and cultural. As a WELL Accredited Professional, Angelo is excited to expand his expertise in wellness and design buildings with human health and wellbeing in mind. Outside of work, you can find Angelo reading, playing video games, hiking, making art, going to museums, and trying new food. He finds that these creative outlets spill over into architecture, inspiring him with new ideas to inform his professional practice.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, New Jersey
- WELL Accredited Professional
Academic Affiliations
- Adjunct Instructor at New Jersey Institute of Technology, Hillier College of Architecture and Design (spring semester 2025)
Kai-Ling (Kareen) Chen
LEED AP BD+C
Kai-Ling began her career at KSS with an externship that transitioned into an internship, and ultimately landed a full-time position as a junior designer. She has experience across all project phases, from early concept development to detailed documentation and coordination. She believes architecture shapes how people feel, move, and connect, and her work reflects a commitment to clear visual storytelling, contextual sensitivity, and thoughtful material expression. Kareen enjoys translating complex needs into spaces that balance performance, beauty, and social impact and hopes to work on more civic and cultural projects that strengthen community identity. Inspired by travel and local design culture, her approach often explores atmosphere, rhythm, and narrative, aiming to make everyday environments memorable and deeply connected to their context.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania
- Honours Bachelor of Arts, University of Toronto
Christine Chlebda
RA
Associate
I am passionate about architecture that offers people unique experiences of the building itself and contributes positively to the place it occupies. Traveling inspires me to be creative because it engages me in new experiences and cultures. Traveling has also enabled me to experience personally buildings by some of my favorite architects, such as Snohetta, Alvar Aalto, and Peter Zumthor. In addition to traveling, I enjoy photography. Taking photos enables me to see things I would not notice otherwise, like interesting qualities of light or texture in a space, and the visual phenomena I capture in photography inspire me later in designing architecture.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Bachelor of Architecture, The Catholic University of America
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
Honors + Awards
- AIA Henry Adams Medal
- AIA Nathan C. Wyeth Award
- Grand Prize in 2013 AIA DC Washington Unbuilt Competition
Jason Chmura
AIA, LEED AP
Partner
Jason brings a wide spectrum of experience to all projects. Having a background in engineering and construction, Jason is able to work collaboratively with consultants and contractors to find the right design solutions in all phases of the project. With varied project expertise, including theater and performing arts facilities, he understands how to balance pragmatic needs and architectural style to create buildings that truly express a client’s vision. A LEED Accredited Professional, Jason brings his passion for environmental sustainability to every project and extends his interest beyond the firm as an educator.
Education
- Master of Architecture, Certificate in Sustainable Design, New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering Technology, Wentworth Institute of Technology
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Registered Architect, New Jersey
Honors + Awards
- Curbed Groundbreaker, 2015
- AIA-NJ Young Architect of the Year, 2014
- AIA-NJ Jersey Shore Chapter Young Architect of the Year, 2014
- AIA-NJ Jersey Shore Chapter, Treasurer
- Arts Coalition of Asbury Park, Board of Directors and President
- ArtsCAP Newsletter, Editor
- AIA-NJ LEED Study Groups, Facilitator
- 2011 and 2012 East Coast Green Conference, Speaker Chair
- North Brunswick High School and Brick Township High School, Guest Lecturer
- Princeton University and New Jersey Institute of Technology, Guest Critic
- Township of Ocean Environmental Commission, Member
Vincent DiMaria
RA
Associate
Vin’s work is grounded in a clear interest of how people engage with the built environment. He has experience across KSS’ K–12, higher education, industrial, and workplace markets, and has led projects through all phases of design and construction. He approaches design as an iterative process, shaped by big ideas and informed by real-world constraints that elevate the final result. Vin values clear communication and collaboration, recognizing that building strong relationships is just as important as building spaces. Excited by thoughtful urbanism, historic preservation, and adaptive reuse, Vin is a proud advocate for Philadelphia. Since 2017, he has served as zoning co-chair on Callowhill Neighborhood Association’s board.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Drexel University
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
Mayva Donnon
AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Partner
Mayva’s project experience ranges from large-scale institutional master plan work to detailed design documentation. As a leader in integrating building information modeling (BIM) into daily practice, Mayva coordinated the implementation of BIM technology on one of the firm’s largest projects: a new campus center for Lawrence University.
Mayva has been drawn to architecture as it presents opportunities to tackle a breadth of challenges that demand both creative and practical solutions. Her love of the design process and the rigors of architectural practice make her adept at balancing technical aspects with the human side of design. She thrives in problem-solving while carefully translating the needs and desires of clients into thoughtful architecture.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, Cum Laude, University of California, Berkeley
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- LEED Accredited Professional
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
- Registered Architect, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Washington
Academic Affiliations
- Lecturer, University of Pennsylvania, Department of Architecture
- Coursework: Visual Studies, Professional Practice
- Guest Juror, University of Pennsylvania, Department of Architecture
- Guest Juror, Philadelphia University, Department of Architecture
Honors + Awards
- Arthur Spayd Brooke Bronze Medal for excellence in architectural design, University of Pennsylvania, Department of Architecture
- E. Lewis Dales Traveling Fellowship for travel abroad, University of Pennsylvania
- Lewis Davis Scholarship, University of Pennsylvania
- Regents & Chancellor’s Scholarship, University of California, Berkeley
Ryan Dougherty
AIA, NCARB
Senior Project Architect
Ryan is an experienced Project Architect with over 15 years of experience across several markets including higher education, K-12, labs and technology, transportation, civic, and performing arts. He is particularly interested in technology-based educational spaces and theatre design and is passionate about integrating more sustainable, biophilic design into projects. For Ryan, architecture ties together his disparate interests in service of the goal to create thoughtful environments for people who do not have a direct say in the spaces they occupy. Outside of work, Ryan enjoys biking, walking, bread baking, playing cello and guitar, hiking, and camping.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Syracuse University
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architecture
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania, Virginia
Beth Emig
AIA
Principal
From programming and studying project feasibility to construction documents and construction administration, Beth has a diverse range of experience on a variety of project types including Educational, Corporate, Medical, and Industrial. Beth thrives when working collaboratively with clients to understand their needs and the hidden design potential in the challenges they face whether the project is a renovation, new construction, or a study of existing conditions. Her understanding of schedule and team coordination drives effective cost-conscious design solutions fulfilling each project’s unique goals.
An active member in her community, Beth volunteers for Philadelphia’s Community Design Collaborative and her neighborhood zoning committee. Through these outlets, she participates in citywide urban renewal conversation topics such as vacant school reuse and zoning reform. Beth also enjoys teaching architecture students the fundamentals of digital media as a part-time adjunct instructor at Temple University.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Temple University
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
- U.S. Green Building Council
Anthony Faino
Anthony is an experienced Architectural Designer with over 8 years of experience designing for commercial, hospitality, and residential projects. His desire to engage with the world in a direct and deliberate way and to explore new technologies that improve building performance means that Anthony excels at being an integral part of a complex process that helps mediate between several different interests. When he’s not working, Anthony enjoys cooking and baking, discovering new music, and exploring Philadelphia and its surrounding parks and trails.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Bachelor of Architecture, University of Pittsburgh
Erica Garfinkel
RA, LEED AP B+C
Senior Architect
Guided by instinct, empathy, and experience, Erica approaches design as a dialogue between intellect and intuition, balancing vision and detail to create thoughtful, context-driven architecture. With experience in multifamily residential and commercial office design, as well as hospitality, she is deeply attuned to how local context and climate shape the built environment and human experience. She thrives in collaborative environments, finding inspiration in diverse perspectives and shared goals. Outside of KSS, she is an avid tennis player and coach, and enjoys traveling, drawing from the cultures and places she encounters to inform her work and strengthen her passion for creating spaces that connect people and purpose.
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Northeastern University
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, New York
- LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design and Construction
- Urban Land Institute (ULI), New York Chapter
- ULI New York, Women’s Leadership Initiative (WLI), Communications Committee
Molly Grassi
Proposal Manager
Molly’s background in journalism and her gravitation toward visual storytelling drives her to explore work at the nexus of the written and the visual. She has spent time in commercial real estate and, most recently, marketing for a large A/E firm where she focused on pursuits for transportation infrastructure and healthcare. Molly is excited to pursue work that equitably enriches and enhances the lives of people living in Philadelphia and the surrounding region, particularly through cultural, multi-modal, and adaptive reuse projects. A voracious reader and equally voracious consumer of reality television, Molly thrives at the intersection of high-brow and low-brow and is fascinated by the constantly evolving ways people tell each other stories.
Education
- Bachelor of Arts, Journalism, Temple University
Michael Grauer
AIA, CDT, LEED AP
Associate
Michael is an experienced architect with specific expertise in the area of design research toward optimizing building envelopes including thermal and energy modeling and analysis. Rigorous in what it takes to get complex buildings constructed, Michael has worked on residential, healthcare, educational, civic, hospitality, and mixed-use projects. Prior to studying architecture, Michael worked as a contractor in residential construction which provided him with a helpful lens that informs his architectural practice. Outside of work, Michael enjoys photography, visual design, and the process of making things.
Education
- Master of Building Science, University of Southern California
- Bachelor of Architecture, University of California Berkeley
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architecture
- LEED Accredited Professional
- Construction Documents Technology (CDT) Credential
Honors + Awards
- Award for Excellence in Architecture and Environmental Design Research, Architectural Research Centers Consortium
Publications + Presentations
- Ventilated Rainscreen System Subframe contribution to annual source energy use in midsize office buildings; 2018 Building and Science
Elizabeth Gray
Elizabeth's career in architecture is driven by a desire for diverse skills and knowledge. She finds fulfillment in seeing tangible results of her work, particularly on a large scale. Before joining full-time, Elizabeth interned with KSS researching life-cycle analysis software and working on New York-area projects. She is eager to grow her expertise in the housing market with KSS. Outside of architecture, she enjoys music, influenced by her minor in the subject, and is passionate about archivism, with significant involvement in the International Archive of Women in Architecture at Virginia Tech.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Architecture, Virginia Tech
Professional Affiliations
- International Archive of Women in Architecture (IAWA), 2023-2024
Hunter Grimm
Informed by his passion for enhancing people’s day-to-day lives, Hunter's approach to architecture is compassionate and pragmatic. Since joining KSS in 2023, his experience has expanded to include industrial, commercial, and student housing projects. Hunter enjoys optimizing his workouts at the gym and exploring different coffee beans and roasts.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Colleen Grogan Bajda
NCIDQ
Associate
Give Colleen a really great cup of coffee and she will be brimming with creativity. She has a passion for adaptive reuse and historic preservation and loves to design and build furniture, especially repurposing salvaged materials. An enthusiast of many passions, she often paints, sketches, peruses cookbooks, and bikes through the streets of Philly. Colleen is always spending time with her family, and when time permits, she sits in on studio critiques with university students.
Colleen chose KSS for its creative space where she can enjoy all aspects of the design process. At KSS, Colleen can create client relationships, space plan, forge design concepts, and gain knowledge in fine-tuning details and understanding how her ideas can get built. She can’t wait to get her hands on selecting finishes that will elevate the architectural shell and overall design concept and is looking forward to collaborating with her creative teammates at KSS.
Education
- Master of Studio Arts, Concentration in Interior Architecture, Marywood University
- Bachelor of Interior Architecture, Marywood University
Professional Affiliations
- National Council for Interior Design Qualification
Honors + Awards
- Architectural Heritage Association Award for Master of Studio Arts Thesis Work (Adaptive Reuse and Historical Preservation)
Alicia Heinsen
AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Partner
Alicia views the process of seeing a space or an object transformed—kindled by just a thought or sketch—as a highly rewarding experience. She finds deep satisfaction in visualizing a space, documenting it, and watching the ground shift as a building takes form. At KSS, Alicia has had the opportunity to transform more than 10 million square feet from initial visual spark to completed construction.
Her position as an executive board member for the NJ ACE Mentor Program and her participation as a team leader at local high schools is representative of her commitment to the local community and to the future of the industry. As an accredited LEED professional, a member of the firm’s Sustainability Practice Group, and the LEED coordinator on numerous projects, Alicia is passionate about protecting the environment and is determined to make an impact today in expectation of change to come tomorrow.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, University of Florida
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Registered Architect, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
- U.S. Green Building Council
- CREW Greater Philadelphia
Honors + Awards
- ENR Top Young Professionals, 2026
- NJBiz Forty Under 40 Honoree, 2025
- Marquis, Who’s Who in America Inclusion, 2025
- AIA-NJ Intern Architect of the Year, 2015
Elizabeth Heldridge
RA, NCARB
Elizabeth brings to KSS experience in mixed-use mid- and high-rise residential projects. Primarily interested in contextualizing the past, present, and future of our industry, Elizabeth is drawn to architecture because it allows her to work at the intersection of history+theory and technology. She is interested in computation design—in the role of emerging technologies in the way we practice, build, and interact with environments both real and imagined. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys reading, sewing, knitting, and roller skating.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor of Science in Design, Minor in Classics, University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
Mariela Hernandez
RA, LEED Green Associate
Mariela is interested in the intersection of city planning and architecture and how the two scales could become generators for social interaction and dynamic activity. She hopes to make an impact on historically marginalized communities through design that is inclusive and generates a collaborative spirit. She enjoys traveling, reading, and visiting parks which influences her understanding of urban design and public spaces.
With a background in residential architecture, she has developed an interest in the intricacies of detail-oriented design and the use of dynamic materials which she aims to bring into the application of larger-scaled projects. She chose to work at KSS because of the team’s focus on community advancement and the propensity for creating a place for human connection. Mariela is looking forward to learning more from KSS about the design process involved in generating the qualities of these communal spaces.
Education
- Master of Architecture, The University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor of Design in Architecture, The University of Florida
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
- LEED Green Associate
- Penn Design Women in Architecture (PDWIA)
Honors + Awards
- Will M. Melhorn Scholar
- PennDesign Diversity Scholar
Jennie Himler
RA
Associate
For Jennie, being an architect isn’t a profession, but a lifestyle. She loves observing nature, studying cities and their people, and watching and reading fantasy adventure stories. Nature is the blend of efficiency with beauty and the greatest teacher of design. Cities and their people exemplify how collaboration creates diversity and scale far beyond the individual can produce. People create fiction by stripping away all limits, sharing with the audience their purest form of imagination. From these experiences, the architecture Jennie creates is imaginative, inspired by its surroundings, and rarely untouched by at least a few other hands and minds. Jennie is passionate about understanding the relationships between people and their built environment. There is an indescribable feeling when people and their place are in balance with each other. People crave a sense of belonging and identity, a place where they can naturally be the very best versions of themselves. Architecture provokes that emotion as much as the people we surround ourselves with do. A cozy café table along a crowded sidewalk and a high-tech industrial lab can both be where the greatest minds collaborate or an individual has a revolutionary thought.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Drexel University
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
Ryan Kane
RA
Associate
Ryan’s passion for architecture is rooted in the belief that we can create better environments for the people that inhabit them. He carries this belief through all projects from large urban design projects down to small installations. With his background and expertise in visual design, he uses an array of computer software as powerful mediums to convey ideas and expressions. He believes that we should utilize the 3D tools available to help break down the complexities inherent in every project to help develop thoughtful and effective solutions.
Outside of Architecture, Ryan’s passions include trail running, specifically in the mountains. He has completed the Run Rabbit Run 100 Mile endurance run located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Ryan believes that like architecture, ultrarunning is all about planning, problem-solving, and growth. His approach to both is the same—to break down the enormity of the tasks into smaller achievable steps to help you reach the finish line.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor of Architecture, Philadelphia University
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
Don Kim
AIA, LEED AP
Senior Associate
Don is driven by a desire to enrich the human experience. He believes in the power of architecture to meaningfully contribute to this pursuit and our collective duty to maintain balance with the natural world in a manner that is equitable for this generation, and in perpetuity for future generations. The depth and breadth of developments in his portfolio over the last two decades reflect tangible impacts to diverse communities and institutions by way of unapologetically beautiful, healthy, and durable built environments ranging from 50,000-square-foot healthcare, science/technology, and educational facilities, to one-million-square-foot mixed-used developments. He advocates for intense integration of design and construction in the delivery of these endeavors, as the only means by which full potential of client vision can be realized. Don is continually energized by opportunities to leverage an ever-evolving landscape of science and technology to advance this fundamental craft..
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Boston Architectural College
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Registered Architect in New Jersey and California
- U.S. Green Building Council
Honors + Awards
- 2005 AIA Henry Adams Medal
Publications + Presentations
- ‘Repositioning Underutilized Assets To Increase Long Term Value’ 2024 NJAPPA Conference
- ‘Revolutionary Renovation: An Architectural and Student-Centered Approach to Building A One Stop’ Institute for Student Services Professional Conference, 2022
- ‘Path to Healing’ AIA LA Committee on Architecture in Healthcare, 2017
- ‘Building Information Modeling and Integrated Project Delivery’ AIA LA TAP, 2010
Rachael L. Kulish
RA
Rachael is passionate about creating environments that enhance the interactions between people and the spaces they occupy, capitalizing on unique features that are already present, or introducing new solutions to improve how people can positively interact in their surroundings. Traveling is a huge design influencer for her, whether it is the metropolitan capitals of Asia or the remote virgin countrysides of South America, or even simply exploring her neighborhood more deeply, these diverse landscapes provide rich experiences for Rachael to draw upon for inspiration and have helped elevate her understanding of how people use and shape their world. Her interest in KSS stems from a desire to be part of a work environment centered on ensuring that designed spaces improve lives for people, the communities they live in, and the environmental landscape at large.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies, University of Missouri
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
Honors + Awards
- Summa Cum Laude, University of Missouri
- Honors College Certificate, University of Missouri
- Charles Merrick Gay Scholarship in Architectural Construction Realization and Its Relationship to Design, University of Pennsylvania
Publications + Presentations
- Featured: Pressing Matters 8 | Miscellany, University of Pennsylvania
Shaan Lakshmanan
LEED Green Associate
Growing up in both urban and semi-urban environments shaped Shaan’s understanding of the built environment and its role in everyday life. These experiences sparked his passion for architecture and approach to designing spaces that positively influence community life. With a background in ground-up projects for higher education and affordable housing, particularly in New York City, he brings a thoughtful, place-based perspective to his work. At KSS, Shaan is eager to explore unique typologies that push design boundaries and improve his clients’ experience. He loves getting fully immersed in projects, seeing them evolve through every phase.
Outside of work, Shaan likes to stay active through bouldering, playing tennis, and soccer.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Syracuse University
Professional Affiliations
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
- LEED Green Associate
- The Architectural League of New York
- Alpha Rho Chi
Phillip Lee
NCARB
As an architectural designer, Phillip has practiced architectural form and skins, along with innovative materials and systems to enhance the aesthetic, cultural value, and energy performances of a building. In his professional career, he has successfully completed research, installations, and design projects including a high-rise building, an IT industry incubator, a library, and a dormitory. Phillip works to explore a balance among art, architecture, and technology to create a vibrant environment in the communities served by his work. Philip works with clients to determine needs and goals and then ensures that the design response is both affordable and constructible. His creative ideas are mostly inspired by collage artists Max Ernst and Cristina Troufa; he developed these ideas in his recent thesis at the Southern California Institute of Architecture.
Before pursuing architecture, Phillip played the Korean flute in an orchestra for 14 years and won several national awards in Korean traditional music competitions. In music, Phillip finds a home in which he can find peace.
Education
- Master of Architecture, Southern California Institute of Architecture
- Bachelor of Architecture, Yonsei University
Publications + Presentations
- 1784 ZERO PROJECT, 2016
Haley Lindsley
RA
Haley’s experience in design-build and community engagement color her approach to architecture as a service to its community. She came to the profession through an interest in history, fascinated by the role architecture plays as a record of human history—what it can tell you about a place and its past, its environment, and the culture that built it. As a practitioner, Haley is interested in the ways architects can engage with the community to create a more well-informed and successful design. After studying and working in New Orleans for nearly a decade, Haley is enjoying the definitive urban typology of New York City and beyond.
A singer and lover of opera, Haley is interested in the ways sound and noise affect our experience of the built environments we inhabit on a day-to-day basis. Also an avid hiker, she sees design as an opportunity to engage with nature and create spaces that foster human health and well-being while also minimizing a building’s environmental impact. Practicing architecture offers the exciting opportunity to explore the ways a building can merge these seemingly disparate pursuits and create places that are healthier for people and their environment.
Education
- Master of Architecture, Tulane University
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, New York
Danielle Lozzi
NCIDQ, CID
Senior Interior Designer
Danielle joins our team as a senior interior designer, with a strong background in hospitality, healthcare, and commercial design. Specializing in creating unique interiors for large-scale commercial projects, she is eager to expand her skills in higher education projects.
Education
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, Fashion Institute of Technology
Professional Affiliations
- Certified Interior Designer (CID), The State of New Jersey
- National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certification
Jessica Mangin
AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Associate
Jessica flourishes in a team environment that encourages learning and collaboration, contributing to design charrettes, knowledge sharing, mentoring, and the cross-pollination of ideas and processes across the firm’s various studios. Passionate about high-performance architecture, Jessica is LEED AP BD+C certified. She has managed entire LEED certification processes with KSS and researched energy-efficient standards such as Passive House during her international studies. With experience across the entire design process from master planning through construction administration, Jessica understands the development of design through occupation–actively stewarding architectural concepts through to built realities.
As an outdoor enthusiast, Jessica finds inspiration in nature, which enriches her interest in the dialogue between built environments and natural landscapes. Dedicated to elevating architecture and design in the local Philadelphia community, Jessica is actively engaged in initiatives such as Park(ING) Day and ACE Mentor Program.
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, Summa Cum Laude, University of Pennsylvania
Professional Affiliations
- ACE Mentor Program of Eastern Pennsylvania, Mentor
- KSS Stewardship Design Group, Chair
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
Kelsey Maher
New York Office Manager
kmaher@kssarchitects.com
Kelsey has experience as an Executive Assistant for an Environmental Engineering firm where she focused on supporting staff and overseeing day-to-day firm operations. At KSS, Kelsey provides administrative assistance from our New York office. She is an avid traveler with an extensive bucket list of places she would like to visit.
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in English, SUNY New Paltz
Johnathan Manza
AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Project Architect
With a primary focus on multi-family residential work and experience across retail, healthcare, office, and hospitality sectors, Johnathan is attuned to how enclosure performance, material choices, and detailing influence both durability and daily experience. Guided by curiosity and craft, he thrives in collaborative settings, valuing the shared problem and solving what happens from early design through construction. Outside of work, Johnathan is an avid runner, often passing by the projects he’s worked on throughout the city, finding calm and inspiration in Philadelphia’s mix of historic and contemporary streetscapes.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Drexel University
Petar Mattioni
AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Partner
Petar’s practical approach to design creatively balances his clients’ aspirational and pragmatic objectives throughout the design and delivery process. His commitment to client relationships, stakeholder engagement, and building consensus elevates design and yields successful project outcomes across projects of varying type, scale, and complexity. Petar strives to be involved in all aspects of the planning, visioning, and design process to ensure overall project success, he is particularly committed and heavily engaged in the initial design phases. His particular expertise resides in designing large-scale, complex projects through a well-thought-out design process tailored to maintain project quality and long-term value while meeting our client’s key project goals. Petar represents the next generation of designers and practitioners - passionate about delivering transformative projects at various scales and complexities, emphasizing human-centric design as a catalyst for engagement and placemaking.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Magna Cum Laude, Syracuse University
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
- Registered Architect, Connecticut, New Jersey, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia
- U.S. Green Building Council
Matthew McChesney
AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Partner
Clients value Matt for his ability to listen carefully, understand their priorities, and translate their values into environments that support student growth and achievement. He leads projects by aligning the client’s mission and vision with budget parameters and site opportunities, resulting in thoughtful, adaptable design solutions. A respected leader within the K–12 community, Matt serves as a trusted design advisor who considers the needs of the students, educators, and stakeholders. His work is grounded in an understanding of how learning environments shape the student experience, supporting both current educational needs and future pedagogical evolution. Across all projects, Matt is committed to responsible stewardship by reducing environmental impacts, optimizing material performance, and stewarding resources thoughtfully for future generations.
Education
- Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA), Saint Joseph's University
- Bachelor of Architecture, Syracuse University
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Registered Architect, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C.
- U.S. Green Building Council
Rocky McClure
NZIA, RA, NCARB
Senior Associate
Rocky’s passion, curiosity, and dedication extend past architecture into the complex industrial processes and integration that elevate places of and for industry. With experience that spans all phases and stages of project delivery across a number of sectors including commercial, education, residential, and infrastructure, Rocky’s versatility, technical skill, and design strength add measurable value to any project on which he collaborates. His strength in forging client relationships, his leadership and mentorship of younger staff, and his international experience make Rocky an exceptional architect and invaluable project team member.
Education
- Master of Architecture, Penn State University
- Bachelor of Architecture, Kent State
Honors + Awards
- Alma Heinz and August Louis Pohland Graduate Fellowship
Merilee Meacock
AIA, NCARB, PP, LEED AP
Partner
Merilee believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience great design. With a strong vision and clear understanding of place; she does more with less, crafting meaningful places through minimal bold strokes of big impact. She employs unique strategies like biophilic design and creative placemaking to engage community, revitalize neighborhoods, and create campuses that strengthen the social fabric and support human experience.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, The Pennsylvania State University
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Professional Planner (New Jersey)
- Registered Architect, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, Pennsylvania
- U.S. Green Building Council
Honors + Awards
- AIA-NJ Architect of the Year, 2014
- AIA-NJ Young Architect of the Year, 2003
- Committee Member for the creation of USGBC K-12 Schools Application Guide
- Vice Chair, Zoning Board, Cranbury Township
- Presenter, SCUP Mid-Atlantic, March 2008
- Featured on national AIA advertising campaign “How Design Works”
- NJ Biz Best 50 Women in Business, 2012
Publications + Presentations
- MidJersey Business, “A Day in the Life: Merilee Meacock” 7 Apr. 2017.
- NJ Biz, “Distinct perspective: ‘People are people,’ says partner at KSS, a woman-led firm in male-dominated architecture industry.” 20 Feb. 2017.
- “Transforming Lives and Communities: Successful Planning Strategies for Starting a Charter School.” National Charter School Conference, Washington, D.C. 23 Jun. 2009.
- Newark, Inc., “Newark Collegiate Academy Opens on Site of Former Boys and Girls Club”
- Building Design+Construction, Contributor to “K-12 School Giants“
- SCUP Planning for Higher Education Journal, “Community Revitalization” (Authored Article)
- The New York Times, “Architect Goes Home, to Recall and to Work” (Teachers Village)
- Architectural Record, “Phase One of Teachers Village Opens in Newark”
- Architectural Record, “Handled with Care” (Eden Education & Outreach Center)
- New Jersey Business Journal, “Newark’s Teachers Village gets its first tenant”
- The New York Times, “Newark Project Aims to Link Living and Learning” (Teachers Village)
- The Wall Street Journal, “Institute Transforms University Campus” (Human Rights Inst.)
- School Construction News, “Bringing Education into the Mix”
- School Construction News, “Central Force: Educational Facilities & Mixed-Use Developments”
- The New York Times, “Pride in Architecture” (Rutgers Biomedical Engineering)
- College Planning and Management, “Facility Focus: Academic and Administrative Buildings”
- NY Construction News, “Rutgers Project Yields Innovative Solutions”
- The Times, “Borough Hall gets Bigger and Better”
- AIA NJ State Convention, “Gottesman RTW Academy Tour”
- Groundbreaking Women in Construction “Building Your Career and Your Family”
- National Charter School Conference
- SCUP Mid Atlantic
- AIA How Design Works
- AIA Presentation Rutgers SERC
Jacqueline Motsiff
With experience in multi-family residential retrofits and rehabilitations, Jacqueline has worked on projects supporting New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the Syracuse Housing Authority. Her approach is grounded in an interest in sustainability systems, analysis, and the ways thoughtful design can improve people’s everyday experiences in small and meaningful ways. She is committed to creating spaces that positively impact clients, occupants, and communities, and is motivated by the excitement people express when design enhances their daily lives.
While her background has focused on residential work, she is eager to gain exposure to commercial and educational projects and explore how design can serve a broader range of users and environments. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, thrifting, reading, Pilates, and searching for the perfect smoothie. She thrives in a studio culture rooted in support, collaboration, and teamwork.
Education
- Master of Architecture, Syracuse University
- Bachelor of Arts, State University of New York at Oswego
Kenneth Miraski
AIA, LEED Green Associate
Senior Associate
Ken has practiced architecture in New York City for more than 10 years with a focus on residential, historic preservation, and adaptive reuse projects. His hands-on knowledge of the city’s delicate and complex built environment has informed his ability to produce high-caliber documentation and manage client expectations. Ken enjoys the thrill of seeing projects come to life during construction, especially after the time invested in documentation and design. Outside of work, you can find Ken exploring the tri-state area on his bike or diving into a good book. His favorite topics include history (especially the history of building demolition), social science, and biographies.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Jefferson University
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, New York
- American Institute of Architects
Scot Murdoch
AIA, NCARB
Partner
smurdoch@kssarchitects.com
Scot is driven to deliver improved performance, process, and value for clients, he has designed and executed millions of square feet of industrial logistics and manufacturing projects at varying scale and complexity for innovative corporate and development clients across the world. His ability to simultaneously think at grand and granular scales results in comprehensive design solutions that exceed client expectations. A forward-thinking problem-solver, Scot explores themes of next generation industrial development in his practice informed by his passions for the restoration of brownfield sites, sustainable design focused on decarbonization, and renewable energy initiatives including green energy production.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, University of Arizona
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architecture
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
- Registered Architect, Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, and Texas
Honors + Awards
- Real Estate New Jersey’s “40 under 40” in commercial real estate, 2008
- AIA NJ Young Architect of the Year, 2004
Srinath Nallan
Principal
Srinath has over 20 years of extensive global accounting and finance expertise in financial planning and analysis, business intelligence, forecasting, budgeting, profit and loss reporting, auditing, and tax. His expertise also includes a strong knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and consolidation of financial statements. Srinath’s advanced proficiency in Excel and demonstrated ability to create visualizations of data drive effective business insights and data analysis. Srinath believes that finance is more than just numbers—its value lies in generating actionable narratives to inform business leaders to make strategic decisions. As a finance professional, he enjoys the opportunity to make a significant impact on the growth of the business. In addition to spending time with family, Srinath loves to travel and meet people from various cultures, try the local cuisine, and learn about the history of a place.
Education
- Bachelor of Business Administration, Vinayaka Missions University
- Master of Commerce, Annamalai University
Paul Neidhard
RA, NCARB
Paul, a Registered Architect with over seven years of experience, brings specialized expertise in multifamily, affordable, and supportive housing to KSS. His background also encompasses site master planning, workplace, industrial, military, historic preservation, and commercial projects. Passionate about making a positive impact, Paul has previously designed homes for individuals experiencing homelessness and now focuses on creating spaces where people build lasting memories, whether through learning, working, or shopping. He also has experience in adaptive reuse and is particularly interested in projects involving existing conditions. Outside of work, Paul enjoys drawing, gardening, and bicycling, along with listening to audiobooks and podcasts.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Cincinnati
- Bachelor of Science, Architecture, University of Cincinnati
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, New York
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
Graham Nelson
RA
Graham is a project architect with experience ranging from high-end residential work in southern New England to healthcare design and clinical lab planning. He has also worked on institutional workplace design, specifically adapting the typology to a post-pandemic world. Graham believes that architecture, as a physical manifestation of a society’s culture and values, is one of the most direct ways in which we can affect ecological and societal environments. With this in mind, he is eager to work with low-carbon design strategies and help make sustainable systems standard practice in the industry. Outside of practicing architecture, Graham is an avid amateur photographer, violin player, and hiker.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor of Arts, Architectural History, Connecticut College
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
Sean C. Owen
Sean C. Owen is an avid skier and brings the qualities of determination and precision that are necessary for the sport into all that he does. Sean has studied the work of Brian Mackay Lyons, in which simplicity and attention to detail are brought into focus; he endeavors to incorporate these same principles into his own designs. Sean enjoys all aspects of the design and building process, whether his tool is a pen or a hammer. His experiences in construction and woodworking give him perspective when designing in the studio and help to inform his decisions.
Education
- Master of Architecture, Wentworth Institute of Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Concentration in Form and Culture, Wentworth Institute of Technology
Tyler Park
Two concepts that have grown increasingly important to Tyler: the architecture of the every day and the idea of slowness. The architecture of the every day is what inspires him to be creative. It is often architecture that is built out of necessity, by non-architects. It rejects pretension for subtlety, and it plays an important role in making a place. It inspires Tyler to try to design architecture that can be accessible and impactful for everyone, and that resonates within its environment. The idea of slowness is what continually reignites his passion for architecture and what has become the common thread between all aspects of his life. Tyler is drawn to activities like camping and film photography because of their inherent slow quality of them. Studying at Virginia Tech, Tyler learned to love the slowness of process: hand drafting, model making, and film development. These methods not only help to deepen his level of engagement with a project but have become a means of joy and relaxation. With these two ideas, Tyler hopes to design architecture that is always meaningful and true to place and always accommodates the human condition.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Sisi Powlick
RA, LEED AP
Sisi graduated with a B Arch from Penn State University in 2007. She immediately joined RTKL where she had the chance to work on some large scale workplace government projects. Moving on from RTKL, Sisi briefly worked as a consultant in New York City for international firms that allowed her to join projects from conceptualization. When an opportunity presented itself, she jumped at the chance to live and work in Shanghai, China, for 5 years. Due to the small team size, Sisi was able to grow as an architect both in her design skills as well as client relations. Since returning to the US, she has successfully passed her AREs and is licensed in New York State.
Sisi loves to travel and read. Reading allows her mind to conjure a new world every time she dives into a new story. While living in China, Sisi was able to travel extensively throughout Asia. Traveling provided eye-opening opportunities to see how people live and interact in so many different cultures. Since becoming a mother in 2018, as well as being an architect, Sisi is passionate about making the built space a better environment for future generations.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, The Pennsylvania State University
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect in New York
Becker Raab
AIA
Associate
Becker’s experience extends across markets including higher education, behavioral health, preK-12, and industrial. He views the field of design with curiosity and a desire to explore the day-to-day spaces we inhabit. Through his work, he strives to achieve a celebration of contextual relationships, material craft, and commonplace delights. Becker enjoys the rigor of a collaborative design process to arrive at unique, thoughtful responses to project conditions. Becker’s passions extend not only throughout firm activities but into the community as well. Having participated as a team leader on Community Design Collaborative projects, Park(ing) Day installations, and as a local volunteer in his neighborhood, Becker believes in the agency of design to make a meaningful impact on our world.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Virginia Tech
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
Kyle Rendall
AIA, DBIA
Principal
Kyle brings a high level of experience to each of his projects. Having worked on many phases of projects ranging from schematic design to construction administration, he is well-versed in the technical skills necessary to deliver success. Additionally, his management skills ensure that projects run smoothly and are completed on time and on budget. With extensive experience in the pre-K to K-12 market, Kyle has worked on new buildings, renovations, additions, and studies for public, charter, and special needs schools.
As an active member of his community, Kyle has volunteered as a firefighter for the Princeton Fire Department for more than a decade. He is also a committed volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and has provided pro-bono design and construction administration services for the non-profit organization Womanspace Inc.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Cum Laude, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Registered Architect, New Jersey
- Design-Build Institute of America, Certified Design-Build Professional (DBIA)
- Construction Quality - Design & Construction Excellence
Honors + Awards
- AIA-NJ Young Architect of the Year, 2015
- Alpha Rho Chi, Professional Architecture Fraternity, Founding Brother, Domitian Chapter
- Princeton Volunteer Fire Department, Volunteer Firefighter
- Habitat for Humanity, Volunteer
- WomenSpace, Inc., Volunteer Design Services
- Princeton 911 Memorial, Volunteer Design Services
Leah Smith
Leah’s experience as an architect includes working on institutional and laboratory projects as well as affordable and market-rate housing. Her commitment to the longevity and social impact of design drives her passion for affordable housing design with sustainable integration, and she’s eager to bring the same lens to new markets, continuing her commitment to becoming a well-rounded designer. When she’s not designing, Leah engages in hobbies such as painting, sewing, and woodworking. She is drawn to projects that involve the understanding of how pieces slowly come together to create a finished product.
Education
- Master of Architecture, Columbia University
- Bachelor of Art in Architectural Studies, University of Toronto
Honors + Awards
- Alexander Kouzmanoof Scholarship
Publications + Presentations
- Columbia University Abstract
- Non Architecture Journal
Andrew Sniderman
AIA
Principal
Andy has worked on a wide variety of complex, culturally significant, and award-winning architectural projects for institutional, academic, and governmental clients. He has held diverse responsibilities and leadership roles across projects ranging from the restoration of a landmark courthouse to the design of a new concert hall to the fit-out of a viral vector cleanroom. As a project architect, Andy has led and collaborated with teams of architects, consultants, and clients from concept design through construction administration and has completed projects under tight schedules and with an attention to detail. His dedication, enthusiasm, and creativity have made him a valuable team member and a collaborative leader. Andy’s passion for design has extended to his personal research, where he is investigating the role of tessellations in architecture and cataloging their use in contemporary buildings.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Magna Cum Laude, University of Cincinnati
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, New York
Honors + Awards
- Rug Your City Los Angeles Collection for Floorplan Rugs - Winning Design
- County Theater Ideas Competition - Honorable Mention
- Groen Hoek: The East River Community Boathouse Competition - Jury Selection
Publications + Presentations
- “4-3 DissectionTiling System”, Bridges Stockholm 2018
- “Tessellations in Architecture: A Design Dialogue”, DesignPhiladelphia
- “Irregularity, Scripting, and the CNC: Bing Concert Hall Case Study”, New York
Vance Stoner
RA
Vance is drawn to the multiple creative challenges associated with the process of design—from the early programming stages through concept development, and into the technical detailing of a building. His experience spans civic and public architecture, including library and community center projects in the Bay Area and nationally, as well as affordable housing in New York City. He is well-versed in all aspects of the design process and has experience in stakeholder engagement, leading focus groups and community outreach events. Vance is excited by social-minded projects of consequence that enhance and empower individuals’ lives, contribute to a more sustainable environment, and enrich the local context. Outside of work, Vance enjoys cooking, traveling, learning German, making linocut prints, and exploring New York City by foot or bike.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, University of Oregon
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, California
Alexia Tan
Driven by curiosity, empathy, and a lifelong passion for art, Alexia approaches design as a means of connecting people through shared spaces and experiences. Her academic work centered on sustainability and often explored cultural and public centers which deepened her interest in community-focused design. With experience in residential projects in New Jersey and multi-residential developments in Asia, she brings a unique perspective to her work. Alexia is particularly drawn to public and assembly architecture—spaces that foster social, cultural, and recreational connections. Outside of KSS, she enjoys playing volleyball, a pursuit that has strengthened her focus, teamwork and resilience.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Carnegie Mellon University
Mounir Tawadrous
RA, LEED AP
Senior Associate
With a design background that spans mixed-use, education, corporate, and planning work, both nationally and internationally, Mounir brings a diverse perspective to each project. Equally adept at client and consultant coordination, he understands what it takes to see a project through to successful completion, on time and on budget. Whether new construction, renovation, or historic preservation, Mounir has handled every facet of the design process on behalf of a wide range of educational clients. In addition, Mounir enjoys giving back to the architectural design community by frequently serving as an adjunct design studio critic at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), College of Architecture and Design.
Education
- Master of Architecture, New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Bachelor of Architecture, Ain Shams University
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
- U.S. Green Building Council
Shelby Ulrich
NCIDQ
Interior Designer
Motivated to address real-world challenges through thoughtful design, Shelby discovered a natural alignment between creative expression and practical problem-solving in interior design. She has built her career in commercial design, with a focus on corporate workplace environments. Eager to expand her expertise, Shelby is interested in exploring projects within the education and cultural sectors.. Her passion for sustainability is driven by the opportunity to create spaces where people can thrive. She values the multi-disciplinary and collaborative nature of the AEC industry, and finds fulfillment in bringing thoughtful, purpose-driven environments to life.
Outside of work, Shelby enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and birding, as well as cozy indoor pastimes such as playing board games and video games.
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Interior Design, Thomas Jefferson University
Professional Affiliations
- National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ)
Josie Venton-Gough
Princeton Office Manager
jventon-gough@kssarchitects.com
Josie hails from Yorkshire in northern England and was born into a globe-trotting family. She has always been curious about the world and passionate about people, other cultures, and languages. She taught English in France for a year as part of her degree program in French and German. Then, after graduation, decided it was time for a real adventure and headed to rural Japan where she taught English for five years. Josie found the ancient Japanese culture fascinating; the people kind and generous; the beautiful architecture and Zen gardens inspiring; and the language challenging!
After moving to New Jersey, she transitioned into the field of international relocations, assisting foreign nationals of global corporations, particularly J&J, with the practical needs and requirements an international move involves. After the arrival of her son, James, she took a couple of years off to focus on enjoying him as a little guy and volunteering in her local community. Once James was in full-time pre-school and Josie was itching to get back to work, she joined a cross-cultural and global leadership coaching firm. This again found her working primarily with international employees of J&J who, as future leaders of the company, were sent on overseas assignments to increase their global awareness and enrich their careers, which in turn increased and enriched Josie’s.
Josie is delighted to join the KSS firm and family, as she believes their values of being caring, collegial, and collaborative coincide with her own. She enjoys being around positive, creative, fun, intelligent, and accomplished people every day. She is inspired by KSS’s socially conscious projects and commitment to “create places that inspire people to achieve more and places that improve lives.” She is excited about contributing to the firm and to being challenged, so she can learn, grow, and develop both professionally and personally.
In her free time, Josie loves being active outdoors in all four seasons – walking at the shore, hiking, biking, skiing, and exploring new places in the USA and around the globe. She also enjoys practicing yoga which she finds is beneficial for the mind, body, and soul; cheering on James at his baseball games; attending ballroom and Latin American dance classes; visiting art galleries and museums; reading books and watching films about inspirational people and their lives; and discovering interesting eateries of all ethnicities.
Education
- Bachelor of Science in French (major) and German (minor) with Honors, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Darcy Veneziale
CPSM
Marketing Director
Darcy thrives in fast-paced creative and collaborative environments. Her team-focused management style and two decades in the A/E/C industry inform her strategic approach to marketing, brand management, and team development. Working closely with leadership, Darcy guides and champions the marketing team’s efforts to promote KSS, maintain marketing materials, online identity, and respond to qualification and proposal requests. An avid reader and podcast binger, she finds great joy in listening and sharing stories with others, especially when infused with humor. In her free time, you can find Darcy escaping to the calm of the woods with her husband, two daughters, and dog Cody.
Education
- Bachelor of Arts, Communication Design, Kutztown University
Professional Affiliations
- Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM)
- Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), Philadelphia Chapter
- Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), Greater Philadelphia
Honors + Awards
- CREW Greater Philadelphia Chapter, Membership Committee MVP, 2014
- The SMPS Marketing Communications Awards (National), Award of Excellence for Social Media - Digital Campaign, 2020
- SMPS Philly’s Phinest Marketing Communications Awards, 1st Place, Promotional Campaign (Digital), 2020 - 2021
Avery Vittoria
CID, IIDA, ASID, NCIDQ, WELL AP
Interior Designer
Originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, and a recent graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Avery is interested in all areas of commercial interior design. Her passion for design began at a young age with chalk-drawn floor plans on the driveway and grew immensely throughout her college career. She is thrilled to be jumping into the world of interior design and can’t wait to start making a difference. She hopes to be able to better the lives of others through design and is especially intrigued by the concepts of universal design and design for well-being.
Having always been inspired by the world and the people around her, Avery strives to take what she has learned and incorporate that into her designs. She chose KSS as a first career move not only for the great people and company culture but also for its wide range of project types, as well as its many opportunities for designing truly user-driven projects.
Education
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, Savannah College of Art and Design
Professional Affiliations
- WELL Accredited Professional
- Certified Interior Designer (CID), New Jersey State Board of Architects
- National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certification
- American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
- International Interior Design Association (IIDA)
David Von Stappenbeck
AIA
Principal
DvonStappenbeck@kssarchitects.com
A project architect with incomparable technical expertise, David is an integral part of the design team: transforming concepts for massing and layout into clear sets of constructible documents, thereby ensuring that our work is cutting-edge, yet achievable and affordable. His specialized knowledge in building envelope systems and technologies allows us to optimize building performance while maintaining budget and design fidelity. From higher education projects to mixed-use urban environments, David’s vast experience informs every project. His keen attention to detail guarantees that our work not only fulfills a client’s vision and project goals, but is also functional, practical, and buildable.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Professional Affiliations
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
- Registered Architect, New Jersey, New York
Publications + Presentations
- Guest Speaker, Project Financing, New Jersey Institute of Technology, New Jersey School of Architecture
Jake Whitehead
RA
A natural collaborator and educator inspired by the exploratory nature of design, Jake approaches architecture with a focus on the craft, creativity, and flexibility. As a project architect, with expertise architectural visualization and environmental analysis, he brings experience in mixed-use, multifamily, and high-end residential projects. Having worked closely with private, developer, and institutional clients, Jake is eager to expand his experience to include cultural and community-oriented work. Jake enjoys the variety and exploratory nature of architecture. He values its ability to open doors and expand minds.
Outside of work, Jake has been known to dabble in woodworking, but more than anything, he simply enjoys making things—regardless of the medium.
Education
- Master of Architecture, Temple University
- Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Architectural Design, Temple University
Professional Affiliations
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
Academic Affiliations
- Adjunct Faculty, Architecture Department, Temple University (2018 to 2023)
Jesse Wilks
AIA
Associate
Jesse’s passion for architecture is rooted in its ability to enrich and add meaning to the everyday moments in daily life—moments that we might otherwise take for granted or fail to notice: opening a door to reveal a new space, climbing a flight of stairs, transitioning from darkness to a space filled with light. His favorite spaces are those that engage multiple senses, yet do so quietly and thoughtfully. Through a variety of educational, industrial, workplace, and cultural projects at KSS, he has worked to embed these values in the project process, from conceptual design through construction. Jesse pursues personal interests in design and craft via woodworking and furniture design.
Education
- Master of Architecture, University of Virginia
- Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, Washington University in St. Louis
Professional Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects
- Registered Architect, Pennsylvania
Yanie Willie
Proposal Coordinator
With a background in Psychology and Marketing and Communications, Yanie began her career at an experiential graphic design firm supporting their project management and business development teams. By closely working with her colleagues and clients, she learned about the design process, proposal writing, and the importance of project management. Yanie’s prior industry experience informs her approach to the proposal process and the development of marketing collateral. She is excited to be a part of the KSS team and to expand her marketing expertise within the A/E/C industry. What Yanie enjoys most about marketing is seeing the finished product and knowing her efforts support the firm’s success. When Yanie is not at KSS, she is heads down in a book, baking pies, or traveling.
Education
- Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Goucher College
- Masters of Marketing and Communications, University of Westminster, London
Lucia Yanik
LEED Green Associate
Lucia is passionate about using architecture to support community-focused design and volunteer initiatives. She strives to create inspiring environments that foster connections among people, blending creativity with practicality to craft meaningful spaces. She is particularly interested in architecture's ability to integrate natural, cultural, and social elements into impactful environments, viewing architects as pivotal in facilitating connections between individuals and their surroundings. Since joining KSS, Lucia's experience has grown beyond high-end residential, to include a broad range of projects within industrial, higher education, and cultural markets. Outside of work, Lucia enjoys tennis, photography (both film and digital), and visiting art museums.
Education
- Bachelor of Architecture, Drexel University
Professional Affiliations
- LEED Green Associate
WE VALUE THE BUILDING OF HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS —
As much as the buildings of timber and steel
Open positions
Senior Project Architect Licensed / Industrial Market (7 to 10 years)
We are seeking candidates with strong leadership qualities and technical and design expertise in the industrial and commercial sectors. We are looking for a creative, talented, and team-oriented senior project architect to lead an expanding body of work that includes e-commerce, traditional distribution, manufacturing, data centers, and high security projects. You should be passionate about design, work well with people, and communicate your ideas and approach in a clear and thoughtful manner. You will work collectively with our dynamic firm to develop innovative, thoughtful, and technical solutions for a wide range of clients and project types. Click PDF button (below) to read the full job description, including required skills.
Project Architect (5 to 7 years)
We encourage creative, talented, and team-oriented licensed architects with five to seven years of experience and a passion for design excellence and project delivery to apply for this position. We are looking for individuals with strong project management experience and the ability to communicate ideas clearly and thoughtfully. In this role, you will work collectively with our dynamic firm across offices to develop innovative, thoughtful, and technical solutions for an expansive range of clients and project types. Click PDF button below to read full job description including primary responsibilities and required skills.
Senior Project Architect Licensed / Industrial Market (7 to 10 years)
We are seeking candidates with strong leadership qualities and technical and design expertise in the industrial and commercial sectors. We are looking for a creative, talented, and team-oriented senior project architect to lead an expanding body of work that includes e-commerce, traditional distribution, manufacturing, data centers, and high security projects. You should be passionate about design, work well with people, and communicate your ideas and approach in a clear and thoughtful manner. You will work collectively with our dynamic firm to develop innovative, thoughtful, and technical solutions for a wide range of clients and project types. Click PDF button (below) to read the full job description, including required skills.
Senior Project Architect Licensed / Industrial Market (7 to 10 years)
We are seeking licensed candidates with strong leadership qualities and technical and design expertise in the industrial and commercial sectors. We are looking for a creative, talented, and team-oriented senior project architect to lead an expanding body of work that includes e-commerce, traditional distribution, manufacturing, data centers, and high security projects. You should be passionate about design, work well with people, and communicate your ideas and approach in a clear and thoughtful manner. You will work collectively with our dynamic firm to develop innovative, thoughtful, and technical solutions for a wide range of clients and project types. Click PDF button (below) to read the full job description, including required skills.