We create
design solutions that
transform lives.

My name is Damon Romanello. I’m the CEO of Studio+, and I never stop moving. I founded Studio+ in 2011, and since then have taken a committed and engaged approach to lead the strategic growth of Studio+ and its affiliated companies.

I founded this company with a vision that we still follow to this day: transforming lives through our company’s work. We accomplish this by promoting process-driven design and committing daily to continuous improvement.

Throughout my career, I’ve planned and led healthcare teams domestically and internationally on a diverse range of work. I’ve spoken nationally on lean operations, destination healthcare, and reverse innovation.

When I am not at work, I split my time between traveling, cooking (I love cooking paella on the Big Green Egg), and spending time with my wife and children boating, fishing, or doing anything at all involving saltwater.

Mike Lendino serves as Chief Financial Officer at Studio+. He possesses a highly competitive mentality and a love for teamwork and believes that true success comes from bringing the right people together to accomplish goals beyond the reach of the individual. Mike’s competitive mindset as CFO is largely a feature of his background playing and coaching hockey at the college level.

Teambuilding and recruitment are among Mike’s greatest passions having spearheaded the firm’s growth from eight employees at its inception in 2011 to over 35 as of today. A true entrepreneur at heart, Mike balances financial austerity and strategic growth opportunities as Studio+ looks to grow over the next decade. Mike is incredibly proud of Studio+’s accomplishments so far, and equally proud to be a husband and father to two beautiful girls. Mike holds a BS in Finance and Economics and an MBA from Florida Gulf Coast University.

Other than my favorite hobby of Architecture, I also enjoy activities on or near any body of water: fishing, body boarding, and boating most especially. I have an affinity for boats and originally had aspirations to become a Naval Architect prior to deciding on Building Architecture because of my dad’s involvement in the construction industry.

I am originally from Michigan and closely follow every Detroit sports team. My Saturdays during the fall are spent watching college football. I lead our Orange County studio and am accountable for all operations and design in our Southern California offices.

My professional background combines architecture, communications, organizational leadership, and business strategy. I bring a broad skill set, multidisciplinary perspective, and rigorous analytical process to each of our projects. At the Studio+ Los Angeles office, our team develops projects which actively support communities. Our approach combines technical know-how and a client-first approach, combined with an expert knowledge of building in the region.

I’m also a faculty member at the Architecture Department at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, where I’m lucky to mentor young talent in our field. I’m an active member of the AIA, serve on the Advisory Board of the Los Angeles Forum for Architecture & Urban Design, and I publish an occasional op-ed in the Los Angeles Times.

Prior to my life in Architecture and design, I was a music critic for 10+ years with LAWeekly newspaper. I stay engaged in the music scene by seeing as much live music as I can, and by volunteering with the non-profit organization “Rock n Roll Camp for Girls Los Angeles,” where I’ve been a camp counselor and band coach.

Outside of the office, I’m the proud dog mom of my retired racing greyhound, Taffy, who keeps me on my toes. I’m a lifelong L.A. Dodgers fan and I “bleed blue.” I’m proud and passionate about LGBTQ issues facing my community and I work to serve as an advocate for marginalized groups our profession has historically excluded.

Hi, I’m Ramon Cruz, Healthcare Principal for Studio+ and I have been lucky enough to be a part of this family.

One of my responsibilities in this role involves building and maintaining client relationships; understanding our community by getting involved and managing as well as leading the strategic growth for the Tampa office.

I have a bachelor’s degree in architecture from the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (5-year degree, Cum-Laude) and certified in Virtual Design and Construction from Stanford University – Center for Integrated Facility Engineering (CIFE). I have been in the AEC industry for more than 15 years with experience that includes all aspect of healthcare design and construction, ranging from small equipment renovations to very large healthcare campuses. I have been fortunate enough to have worked in many healthcare projects not only in the U.S., but in UAE, Africa, South America and Caribbean which had given me the opportunity to have a broader view to design approach and critical thinking based on cultural needs.

Aside from work, I love spending time with family/friends and giving back to the community as I strongly believe there’s nothing more rewarding in life than spending time with the people you love and with those in need. I also enjoy being involved in professional communities such as the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Project Management Institute (PMI), American Institute of Architects (AIA), US Green Building Council (USGBC), among others.

I love all kind of sports! I also like traveling, reading, working out and spending time outdoors.

Hi, I’m Andy Chan, a Managing Principal at Studio+, where I lead our Engineering division. Although I’m based in our Orange County office, I’m dedicated to promoting teamwork and cooperation across all Studio+ locations to deliver seamless and innovative solutions to our clients.

Engineering is my passion. It’s not just about designing engineering systems but also about improving them to meet each client’s unique needs. I approach every project as if it were my own and strive to find the most suitable use of lighting, power, mechanical, and plumbing systems. My professional philosophy is “Well begun, half done!” because I believe that early planning and collaboration are essential to the success of any project.

Over the last 20 years, I’ve grown my expertise in management, design, construction support, and working with clients in a diverse range of markets, including critical mission facilities, healthcare, higher education, and renewable generation, to name a few. Before joining Studio+, I worked as an engineering consultant with this amazing team for over a decade. This experience made my decision to come aboard an easy one.

Outside of work, you’ll likely find me participating in church activities, cheering on my son from the sidelines of his soccer games or hanging out with my family and friends. I used to play basketball and badminton, but now I love staying active by working out, cycling or snowboarding. The most important aspect of my life is spending time with family and friends. One year, instead of sending out Christmas cards in the mail, I decided to ride my bike to each family member to personally deliver their card. It was a fun adventure that took me three days and around 150 miles of riding.

I am Valerie, and I’ve been practicing interior design for over 20 years. I graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the Ringling School of Art and Design, and have been licensed for over 16 years now.

I have a great passion for impacting lives with what I do. I am constantly reminded and inspired by the Steve Jobs quote, “Design is not just what it looks and feels like—design is how it works.” I do whatever it takes to pass this passion on to my fellow designers as I help lead and mentor them.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and friends, creating memories with them wherever we go. My husband and I like to travel with our two boys. When we’re not on the move, you can find us going to movies on opening day as a family.

Hi, I’m John, Principal & Architect of the Los Angeles/TDM Office. I am a native of St. Louis, Missouri, born at the time Harry S. Truman was president. I attended parochial schools and I went to a high school taught by English monks. “You mumbling moron!” was our favorite quote of one monk. I went to Wesleyan University in Connecticut and got my BA with a major in architecture. I then got my Masters Degree in California from Cal Poly Pomona.  I worked briefly for International Engineering in San Francisco and Lewis Homes in Upland before landing at Harrison, Beckhart and Mill Architects in Eagle Rock.  I got my architectural license in 1979 just before HBM merged with Pedersen Wesley Architects to become PBWS Architects. About that time I met my wife, Pamela through the Junior Chamber of Commerce, I was president of the men’s group and Pamela was president of the women’s group. Pamela is a successful real estate agent and also is a public speaker on business and social etiquette. We have one daughter who  also lives in Los Angeles, she currently works for Apple in corporate communications. I am very happy to join the Studio + family, I think it creates a stronger firm for our whole team. It is also great to see the next generation of architects come into their prime.

Hobbies: Golf, Hiking, pen and ink drawings, author of “All Homes Great and Small”

I am Diran Depanian. I was born in Yerevan Armenia while it still was a part of the Soviet Union, and arrived in USA at the age of 17, after a 6 month stay in Italy. I was always interested in buildings and historical Architecture while growing up in Armenia, but Italy is where my interest in Architecture solidified. Initially I studied Architecture at Los Angeles City College and ultimately received my Bachelor of Architecture degree from University of Southern California. I attended a summer quarter at the University of Venice, Italy, while I was at USC.

After graduation I worked in 3 Architectural offices of various sizes, before starting my own practice in 1994 with my 2 partners John Tegtmeyer and John Miller.

I have 2 adult children, both are University graduates, one is a psychologist with a master’s degree, the other is a historian working for the LA County government.

Traveling and immersing myself in various cultures, their food, architecture, customs and so on, is my passion. To share my experiences on my travels, I usually conduct a short lunch seminar for the TDM team and other invited guests. I also enjoy movies, art and reading.

My name is Rachel. I am a Principal with Studio + and have been with the company for over 5 years now. Each day is a new opportunity to drive innovation and collaborate with inspiring team members, project partners and clients.

Like Studio+, I am driven by positivity and passion. I am a graduate of the University of Miami []_[] and am a positively passionate Hurricanes fan!

I am also very passionate about the design and construction process. Outside of the office, my travels have taken me to some beautiful cities around the world and have given me the opportunity to bask in beautiful and diverse architecture. When I travel to a new place, my instinct is to find the most delicious local food and the architectural gems of that place.

Hello, I’m Mark, and I’ve been lucky enough to be counted among one of the original members of the team that took the leap and helped start Studio+. My time and involvement here has not only helped the company grow—it has also pushed my career forward in ways I could not imagine and has improved me as a person.

I have just over 9 years of experience in healthcare design, construction, and project management. My experience serving in the military provided me with skills that ensure great detail orientation in projects.

I love Crossfit, obstacle course races, and exercising. I can never get my fill of adventure and outdoor activities such as paddle boarding, hiking, and mountain biking. I’m also an avid Jeep enthusiast.

I enjoy spending time with my son fishing, playing video games, and helping him grow up to be a good man.

I’m Steve Bull and I’m a Principal based out of our Orange County office. My role includes leadership and mentorship to our So Cal architectural staff. From Programming to Closeout, I’m involved with all phases of design…wearing a lot of hats. Over the last +25 years I’ve managed architectural teams within a variety of market sectors, and now I’m involved with strategic planning as well as client relations and business development. My friends and colleagues say I’m a critical thinker attempting to understand, not just the “what” but also the “why”. I enjoy taking ownership of the projects our Orange County office has been given, following through with our team to ensure expectations are met and exceeded.

Aside from work, I spend time with my lovely wife while telling horrendous “dad jokes” to my four energetic children. I enjoy teaching Sunday school, coaching their teams, and volunteering at Boy Scouts events. I’m originally from North Carolina and travel there often to spend time with my extended family and to cheer on my beloved Tar Heels. I’m an avid fly fisherman and feel most comfortable in waders standing in a small Smoky Mountain stream. I have a 3 year plan to learn banjo, so make sure to ask how the lessons are progressing.

Hi, Welcome to Studio+! I am glad you found me. As you might already know, I oversee our Marketing and Business Development Department.

As Studio+’s Brand Ambassador, I make sure that your interaction with our brand is always consistent. As an advocate for our clients, I am always a phone call away. Our #1 goal is for our service to go above and beyond your expectations. 

I am most happy when I am helping “people”, the real users of the spaces we work in every day. I am passionate about behavioral and mental health, as well as the representation of women and other minorities in our industry. I currently serve on the board of Hope Clubhouse and on the board of the Florida Chapter of Women in Healthcare , as well as an active member of Healthy Lee’s Behavioral health task force.

I am married to my best friend and together we have a daughter and two dogs, a Jack Russell and a Yellow Lab.

I joined Studio+ in 2013, even though I started in the Interior Designer department helping healthcare and commercial clients bring their vision to life. I soon realized that my real passion laid in business development and marketing.

I look forward to meeting you!

My name is Andrea, and I am one of the original founding members of Studio+, and can probably be characterized as the chameleon of the office. I can safely and proudly say that I have done every job in the office, whether that’s producing CAD drawings, generating RFPs, or managing daily business operations.

Nowadays you will find me as one of the leaders of the Front Office! Bookkeeping, travel arrangements, and event planning are my secondary tasks to keeping the office running day after day.

Despite growing up with three architects in my family, I never once imagined that I would end up working for an architectural company. Studio+ is my home and I am so excited for what the future holds for this growing team. The ride has been fun and its only getting better.

Hi, I’m Joy!

I started my journey at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where I developed my passion for a creative career and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Effects. During my time prior to Studio+, I developed brand identities, marketing campaigns, new business proposals, and anything I could get my hands on that would excite our audiences.

Now you’ll find me as Creative Director of Studio+, where I am dedicated to company branding, marketing, and graphic design. I am passionate about making sure every document and image that has our logo on it has been crafted intentionally and accurately to tell the story of our brand.

Outside of the office I’m an avid traveler and have been to over 20 countries. I’m passionate about the arts and bringing more creativity to our local communities.

I graduated from the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico with a BA in Architecture. I originally went to pursue mechanical engineering, studying for two years until I realized what I had actually signed up for were tortuous math courses and never-ending “constructive” criticism. So that’s when I made the switch to what I now consider my skilled passion: architecture.

On weeknights, you will find me wearing my Dance-Dad hat, and on weekends I turn into a Gymnastic-Dad, sideline shouting “Great leg extension!” and embarrassing my daughter and wife. But, I can’t help it – my family is also my passion. I take great pride in my Puerto Rican heritage, often reminiscing my grandmother explaining “when-I-grew-up” stories to my daughter and me. The classic Puerto Rican seafood mofongo is my favorite dish, but any Studio+ team member could likely vouch that I don’t food discriminate – they call me the human garbage disposal. Despite the name-calling, I am proud to be part of a company that integrates a positive work-life balance and allows me to achieve new career heights.

Hi, I’m Natalie. I was born in Beirut, Lebanon and moved to Los Angeles when I was 6 years old. Here, I attended a private Armenian school for my primary and secondary education and was part of a graduating class of 60 students. As a kid, I was interested in pursuing law, but an aptitude test during my freshman year of high school indicated that I’d do best in a career that’s creative, artistic and design oriented.

I attended Woodbury University, a small private university in Burbank, California. After a grueling 5 years of intense studios, sleepless nights, a study-abroad program in Paris, France, joining a sorority and making lifelong friends, I received my Bachelor of Architecture. Oh, and I met a boy in 2^nd year studio who I married after graduation.

My career in architecture began 25 years ago at a firm that mainly focused on projects in the education sector, and every other firm that I have worked at since was coincidentally in the same niche. I briefly left the work force to have my two kids and returned a few years later to juggle motherhood and my career.

Throughout my professional experience, I have found fulfillment in seeing a project through its entire process. I find the construction aspect of the process the most rewarding because it’s the culmination of the vision and the expertise of the detailing that makes the project’s execution awe-inspiring.

When I’m not working, I’m mothering, wife-ing, hanging out with family and friends, trying new restaurants, and going to concerts.

Hello, my name is Scott Mikrut. I was born and raised on Chicago’s north side and have lived in Orlando, Florida, since 2010. I graduated from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 2005 with a Professional B.A. in Architectural Studies and earned a Master’s in Architecture in 2021, also from SIUC. In my twenty-plus years of experience, I have had the unique opportunity to work and learn from many talented people throughout the country over various project types. I have amassed specialties in the hospitality, food service, themed entertainment, and education sectors. Over the years, I have used those experiences to cultivate a very technical and detailed oriented approach to every project I have the honor to be a part of, with the overall goal of providing a product and experience that exceeds the client’s expectations.

In my free time, I enjoy going on adventures with my three children. From weekends at the beach, visiting our many theme park attractions, and local sporting events, to viewing all the natural wonders Central Florida offers. There are always new things to do and new memories to make. I am also a huge baseball enthusiast (Go Cubs Go!), having played Division I in college all the way up to “old guy” rec leagues today.

Hi! I’m Lafayette!

I’m a proud native of Jacksonville, FL! I received my Bachelor of Health Sciences from the University of South Florida. After a year of work in health insurance claims, I decided to pivot and pursue my childhood passion for design. That decision led me to the University of Florida, where I earned my Master of Interior Design (GO GATORS!). During my time at UF, I found my home in healthcare design!

Now, you’ll find me as a Graduate Designer at Studio+, where I’m committed to the vision of creating solutions that transform lives! If you really want to excite me, let’s talk materials, lighting, and space planning!

Outside of interior design, you can find me traveling and exploring with friends and family! I also enjoy the beach and fashion! If I’m not doing any of those, I’m likely on my couch enjoying Youtube!

I’m Ryan Martell, Principal & Architect of the Los Angeles/TDM Office. I am a Los Angeles native and have been part of the Los Angeles office since 2004. Through my experience working in Architecture, I have come to learn that the main role of an Architect is to identify and solve problems. I have found that seeing a design concept come to fruition is a by-product of a successful problem solving process. I enjoy traveling, food, & wine with my wonderful wife, Ayde. I also enjoy hiking, playing basketball, studying the Bible, & watching sports. It has been a joy working under the mentorship of the founders of TDM Architects, and I look forward to being a part of the forward thinking Studio+ family.

Hi, I am Juan,

I am from Colombia and came to the U.S. in 2014. I recently moved to Florida from Nevada, looking to be in a place full of nature and relaxing surroundings, and I think I found that in this paradise called Fort Myers.

I studied Architecture in Colombia and did graduate studies on Green Architecture in Canada, before completing a Master of Architecture at the University of Nevada. During my master’s, I focused on Space Architecture, developing concepts for extra-terrestrial architecture.

I am motivated by thinking out of the box and by doing creative work.

Hi!

I am Brianna, and I have been with Studio+ since 2013! I originally started as a marketing intern, then quickly transitioned into finance where I remained for several years. But now you’ll find me back in marketing, which is my new happy place.

What do I do on a daily basis you ask? Well, here’s my short answer: I communicate; sharing ideas, researching facts, voicing opinions (I’m great at that one), and formulating it all into a message that best represents who we are and what we do. And I absolutely love it. With so much going on, there truly never is a dull moment. There is always a story or a moment to share, and I want to be part of all of it. You’ll find me in our Fort Myers office, let’s connect!

Hi, my name is Amy and I recently joined the Studio + team!

I graduated from USC and moved to Brooklyn, then San Jose, CA then Petaluma, CA, and finally Van Nuys, CA. While living in Brooklyn, I worked on hospitality projects and explored the city until 4 am. When I relocated to San Jose, I became involved in school renovations and have since then continued to work in education. I worked with districts in San Jose all the way up to Clearlake. One challenge I had on education projects are the meetings held with the community and stakeholders to address their concerns and goals for the project. By taking the comments and synthesizing them into a project, my team was able to create a project that works for everyone and a beautiful space for the next generation.

Prior to family, I enjoyed traveling. I like wandering the city and finding unique shops like Maille mustard shop in Paris to get a Fig Coriander mustard or a small courtyard with a calming water feature between the towering buildings in New York City. I plan to continue to explore the globe once my children are older and the world is healthier.

My family unit consists of two children, a dog, and a husband. I am an avid gamer (board and video) and can be often found deep in thought on how to beat a 3-year-old in Connect4. While I love to eat good food, I also love cooking! I make bread, pizza, and tasty Japanese curry.

Hi, I’m Patty Rice. I became an architect as a second career after realizing I needed more creativity in my life. I have been practicing for over 33 years and love every minute of it. With a B.A. in Social/Psychology from UCLA and a BArch in Architecture from the Univ. of Miami, FL, I truly believe the built environment is meant to be designed to provide a sense of well-being for its inhabitants. I am proud to have held the American College of Healthcare Architects Certification (ACHA) and continue to learn, grow and experiment with ways to always design with the end-user in mind.

Being a member of the Studio+ team has been an exciting, never a dull moment experience. I have been the Architect of Record for Fort Myers Office and Principal-in-Charge of multiple projects and now enjoy the role of Sr. Healthcare Planner. The forward thinking, out of the box environment has been, and will continue to be amazing. Working together, we are truly transforming lives through design.

I love sports and enjoy playing racquetball, tennis, pickleball, kayaking (you name it) and spending time with family and friends. I volunteer to teach disabled children how to ride horses and it brings me infinite joy. I love traveling and intend to travel to as many parts of Planet Earth as I can.

Hi, I’m Molly

I have spent most of my life in Atlanta Georgia, and enjoyed every bit of it. I have a serious love for the outdoors and try to spend most of my free time outside. I studied Interior Design at the Art Institute of Atlanta, and once I started working at my first firm I discovered my passion for working in Revit. I quickly moved to working more directly with Architects and Engineers, and after 8 years I found myself teaching and creating custom workflows for many different disciplines of the AEC industry.

At Studio+, I help the team expand their knowledge and understanding of Revit and create custom solutions for easy workflow within the program. If you can’t find me in the studio, then I am probably at the beach running around with my pups, Cubby and Elly. I look forward to collaborating with you!

Born in Santa Marta, Colombia, I am an Architect with studies in Plastic Arts. I also earned an Associate Degrees in Computer Drafting/ Design and Lead Auditor based on Quality, Environment, and Occupational Health and Safety Management. I am currently working at Studio+ in Fort Myers, Florida, on Architecture/Interior Design.

I am a mother of two children who bring color into my life every single day. We love enjoying special moment’s together, cooking, traveling, creating art and enjoying the passion for playing soccer.

I enjoy creating a parallel between our imagination and the world in which we live, the fascination with functional art of design, and the enthusiasm for solving practical problems. I value working with other people to integrate spaces, depending on their function and needs. I enjoy achieving a clean design that integrates space with the exterior, which is a fundamental essence of my creative style. A pencil, sharpener, eraser and ruler were the essential tools when I began in the drafting world… Now my favorite tools are the variety of software available that help me create outstanding work.

The Inspiration is so simple……just drawing your thinking!

Hi! I’m Bertha and I was born in Jalpa, Zacatecas, Mexico.  In 1980, my sisters and I moved to Los Angeles, California, to be with my dad. My younger brother soon followed.

At UC Berkeley, I found my calling to pursue architecture and then attended Yale University for my Masters degree. Other than four years after graduate school in New York City, my career in architecture has been in Los Angeles.

I enjoy reading, watching movies and doing kickboxing.

Hi there! My name is Tara and I work in the front office here at Studio+. More specifically, I am involved with the financial operations of the firm. I work closely with my team to develop forecasts, monitor cash flow, and participate in strategic decisions aimed at improving firm operations.

Shortly after graduating college, my best friend, Brianna Olsen, approached me with a marketing internship opportunity at her company. Not having the slightest idea about what I wanted to do in life, I jumped at the offer. Fast forward 6 years, and I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.

At home, I am known as “Mom” to a spunky two-year-old, and “Dog Mom” to a crazy husky. I am not sure who challenges my husband and I more – the dog or the kid, but they both keep our life interesting! In our free time, you can usually find us hanging by the pool, visiting with family, or planning our next adventure.

Hi, I’m Barbara!

I came to architecture early in life when a grade school homework assignment asked me to design the layout for a room in a house; I handed in a project that designed a room, the fireplace, the furniture, the entire home. How could I design something in isolation?

My college education was interrupted by the arrival of my daughter, then another daughter, and finally my son. They are the loves of my life and tending to them as they grew into the amazing adults they are has been my life’s work and privilege. I went back to university in my 40s and completed my undergrad degree in architecture, magna cum laude, and immediately went on to receive a master’s in architecture at the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. A generalist at heart, I enjoy the discovery of how parts and pieces fit into the whole of a system, working together and responding to one another.

When I am not at my computer I can be found outside, exploring. Boating, sailing, kayaking, biking, hiking, are all means to explore my photography hobby. As the 7^th of 9 children, I am an observer and always aware I am part of something bigger than myself and I love to get out and capture all that I find.

I started at Studio+ back in 2013. I am a draftsman by trade, with mostly Healthcare experience. I always have my projects out on time and on budget.

I’m also the office handyman. Whether it is mounting art, painting, patching holes, transforming old doors into chalkboards, or mounting white boards on walls, I make sure the job gets done.

I fill most of my time with my family, they come first. Beyond that, I enjoy working with my hands. Woodworking and any type of restoration work are a big passion of mine.

“The true delight is in the finding out rather in the knowing” — Isaac Asimov

Hello! I’m Jose and I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. In 1978, my parents moved from New York to California, and I’ve been in this area for over 40 years now. My favorite thing to do is play in a Latin jazz band, and my instrument of choice is electric bass. Other hobbies I enjoy are drawing and hiking. I went to school at Los Harbor College and studied Architecture – I chose my major in high school when I took an architectural drafting class, and I’ve been hooked ever since! I have 30+ years of industry experience, including Orthopedic Institute for Children, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Humana Hospital, and Marana Health Care Center. Outside of work, I love spending time with my wife and six kids, my mom, brother, three sisters, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

My name is Chandler, and I am a project architect located in Northern Michigan. I originally started working for Studio+ in the Fort Myers office in 2018 after graduating with my Bachelor of Architecture degree from Virginia Tech. Then after almost two years of studying and hard work, I passed my registration exams and became a licensed architect in December of 2020.

In 2021 I made the difficult decision to leave Florida to move back to Michigan and be closer to family. The reward outweighed the risk, and now I am extremely lucky to work remotely for Studio+ from thousands of miles away!

I’ve always had a love of architecture; from a young age I would draw floor plans and layouts in my free time, and now I’m lucky enough to do it for a living! When I’m not working, I enjoy hiking, biking, and spending time out by the lake with my family and my dog.

Hello, I’m Waldo, and I’ve worked in the field of architecture for over a decade. Before that I graduated from the University of Puerto Rico then completed my studies with my Master’s from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

My goal here at Studio+ is to work closely with clients to reach a clear understanding of their goals. Together we can then develop creative design solutions. This process allows us to develop an integrated vision that leads to design excellence.

I’ve lived in San Juan, Urbana, Boston, Sacramento and now settling in Fort Myers. I’m looking forward to enjoying everything Florida has to offer.

Hi, I’m Amanda – born in the South and raised in Memphis, Tennessee – yes, I have a thick accent!

I currently work at Studio+ Fort Myer’s office as a healthcare designer – a career I have been planning since I was a young girl. In my youth, I often volunteered at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Center, where my mother worked as a nurse – this inspired me to pursue a career centered around creating healing environments. I graduated from Syracuse University, my parent’s alma mater, where I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts, majoring in interior design. After graduation, I moved back to Tennesse to start my career, where I worked on a broad range of design projects: healthcare, corporate, retail, and residential.

I eventually made a move to SWFL, where four generations of my family currently reside, and I continued my passion in healthcare design. Now you can find me working in all fields of healthcare design: acute, outpatient, surgery centers, MOB, and behavioral health. I truly love knowing that I have the potential to make a positive impact in a patient’s journey.

Outside of work, you can find me at the beach – my happy place, or watching sports. Growing up in the south has naturally made me a  forever college football fan, but my true love is college basketball. March Madness is my favorite time of year, I can proudly say that I have been to two Final Fours to see Syracuse play, and plan to attend more!

Hello, my name is Hemal, and I am a project coordinator at Studio+

During high school, I took my electives were all in technical subjects, which interested me in receiving an architectural degree. One of the best architectural schools in India, CEPT University, was in my hometown- Ahmedabad, where I received my bachelor’s degree in Architecture. Also, the city where master Architects Le Corbusier (Mill Owners’ Association Building, ATMA House) and Louis Khan (IIM Ahmedabad) had projects.

I love to travel and see a variety of cultures and spaces, which inspired me to come to the US to obtain my masters in New York City. Apart from architecture, I am also passionate about photography, fitness, and cooking. I am a religious person and belong to BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service.

“In the joy of others lies our own.” – HH. Pramukh Swami Maharaj

Hi, I am Jeff Bissiri. I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley section of Los Angeles. I graduated from California Polytechnic University at Pomona with a Bachelor of Architecture degree and became a licensed architect four years later. My professional experience with various firms has included commercial, institutional and custom residential projects across Southern California. The main emphasis of my work over the last 20 years has been educational projects.

I am a firm believer in the preservation of our historic built environment. I am an active member of the preservation committee of the Art Deco Society of Los Angeles and have been a docent for walking tours for both the Art Deco Society and the LA Conservancy. I currently serve as the architect member of the Sunset Square-Spaulding Square HPOZ board.

Hello, I am Ani.

I was born in Addis Abeba, Ethiopia and later my family moved to Beirut, Lebanon, where I went to high school. In 1975 I came to California and graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Southern California.

Today, I am a Sr. Project Manager for Studio+ with over 25 years of experience. I have two amazing daughters, enjoy hiking, traveling and reading.

Hello everyone. This is Tanmay, a recent international addition to the vibrant team at Studio+ Orange County. Hailing from the other side of the world, [Mumbai, India] I look forward to bringing in my flavors and cultures of the East.

I’d like to consider myself a contemplator, one who wishes to question most of the mundane conventions and prejudices that exist in the society we live in. With big dreams and even bigger conviction, I look forward to seeing myself develop as a professional that could aid in initiating a positive CHANGE in the world. On a lighter note, I play a few Classical Indian percussions, have represented my School/ College in National Level Cricket and was recently recognized with Thesis Honors for my exposition on Olympics. Huge Foodie at heart, I like to spend part of the day either on my bed or at a restaurant.

A graduate from the Savannah College of Art & Design [M-ARCH] and a humble admirer of the profession since as far as I can remember, my next aim is to learn how buildings come together in real life and Studio+ seemed the perfect start for me in this journey.

Hello there, I am Melissa Nappo. I am a Nebraska native who graduated from the University of Nebraska with degrees in both Interior Design and Architecture,as well as minors in Studio Art and Art History. My multi-disciplinary background allows me to have an appreciation for all aspects of design, from big picture concept to the smallest of details. I have 8+ years experience in commerical architecture, rangining from healthcare, mixed-use, and educational design.

I am passionate about making meanignful relationships with my project team memebers in order to foster a strong studio culture. I believe when each unique team member feels valued and respected they are able to deliver a more successful project.

I recently made the decision to relocate to the sunny skies of Southwest Florida. Coming from a landlocked state, any body of water is magical, which is why you will find me on the beach or poolside any chance I can get. I also love to travel, explore new cities, and try out new foods. In my past I spent two semesters abroad, specifically London, Rome, and Paris, studying architecture and architectural history.

I am looking forward to becoming a local in the Fort Myers area.

Hello everyone!

My name is Austin, and I am a project coordinator at Studio+ Orange County working primarily on K-12 school projects. I was born and raised in Michigan, which is where I went to school and started my career in architecture. I graduated from Lawrence Technological University with both a B.S. in Architecture and Master’s in Architecture. Previous roles working on a variety of project types (single/multi-family residential, commercial, higher ed., mixed-use) has provided the opportunity to gain valuable experience leading projects from the design phase through construction.

My passion for architecture began in high school when I entered a couple residential design competitions through a drafting/design class. Since then, I have continued to enjoy the problem-solving involved with working within the constraints of each individual project. I am constantly looking for ways to improve design processes and new means of architectural representation and visualization.

Outside of architecture I love camping with my friends/family and just being in the outdoors. I enjoy playing soccer, basketball, longboarding, and snowboarding with my siblings. Since making the move to the west coast I have been trying to travel and explore as much as possible and spend plenty of time at the beach.

Hey! I’m Adam and I work in the Fort Myers office as a Sr. Project Coordinator specializing in health care.

I have a Bachelor of Architecture degree from SUNY Alfred State in central New York. After school, I practiced in Jamestown, New York as an architectural designer for a large firm mainly focusing on K-12 schools. After shoveling a few too many snowy driveways, my wife Rachel and I relocated to Fort Myers and have loved the area! I have experience in working on various projects from higher ed, health care, banks and restaurants. I look forward to working with the teams here to keep the amazing designs moving and to keep creating as we grow together.

I grew up with my younger sister, Paige and my twin brother, Drew in Western New York. Rachel and I met a few weeks after I graduated high school and got married about 5 years later at a beach wedding on Sanibel Island. She is an interior designer here in Fort Myers working on residential and small commercial projects. When I am not at work, I enjoy fishing from the beach. Sharks are my favorite! I also find yard work to be a fun hobby on the weekends. Our dog, Finn and or two cats, Dex and Poe keep us plenty busy at home.

I joined the team as a Project Administrator, bringing a diverse background in the medical, legal, and construction fields. Born in the Caribbean and raised in Southwest Florida, I graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University with a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Studies, focusing on business and economics.

My professional journey includes over four years at Naples Community Hospital (NCH), where I worked in many of the buildings designed by Studio+. Following my time at NCH, I gained experience at an estate planning law firm and a permit expediting firm.

Outside of work, I have a passion for music, having played the tuba since I was 11 and the bass guitar. I also enjoy spending time with my three cats: Simba, Shadow, and Sunny. As a huge NBA fan, basketball is another of my interests.

Hello, my name is Agus. I am an Architectural Designer at Studio+ in the Los Angeles office. I was born and raised in Indonesia, then I moved to California right after my high school graduation to pursue my passion for architecture. Drawing and designing have been my passion since I was little, ultimately leading me to pursue a career in architecture.

Prior to receiving my undergraduate degree, I received my Associate Degree in Architecture from the College of the Desert in Palm Desert. Following that, I transferred to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and spent three years full of tears of joy of sleepless nights. I ultimately graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture.

In previous work experience, I have worked and engaged in a broad range of project types including education, commercial, residential, mix-used building, high-rise, interior, and sustainable design projects. These involvements gave me an intensive knowledge of the principles of Architectural and interior design that furthered my career as a designer at Studio+.

I enjoy drawing, reading, listening to music, photography, hiking, and spending fun time with my family.

Hi my name is Jose Corado,

I am a Sr. Project Coordinator and have 30 years of architectural experience. I was with TDM Architects (now Studio+) for 21 years, working primarily in the education market on school projects. I’m very happy to be working with the Studio+ team and am in the process of studying to pass my last exam “Supplemental Exam” and get my Architect’s license. I thank our Principals for always reminding me and emphasizing the importance of continuing education and career goals.

I enjoy hiking, swimming, playing basketball, playing the guitar and learning. I like watching sports, especially the Lakers. I also love to spend time hiking or traveling with my three beautiful daughters.

Hello, my name is Logan. I was born and raised in West Michigan, in the Grand Rapids Area. I am the youngest of four children, and spent my summers growing up traveling and exploring the country with my family. I attended Ferris State University, where I dual majored in Architecture and Sustainability, as well as Facilities Management. Upon graduating Ferris, I was ready for a change of location, and some warmer weather, so I applied to Studio+. While working full time at Studio+, I was able to complete my Masters, through Boston Architectural College

Since starting my career in the fall of 2017, I have had the opportunity to be exposed to a wide range of projects, spanning several states, and countries, but I have found my passion is for healthcare architecture. I have found that the role and impact that architecture can have in a healthcare setting is nothing short of profound. Striving to bring comfort to patients, respite to loved ones going through the toughest moments of their life, or helping support a great standard of care through the built environment, is what motivates me, and drives me to deliver the best possible documents and design.

I also found that I maintained my passion to be close to my family. So, in 2022, I moved back to Grand Rapids to be close to my family, and to play a larger role in my Niece and Nephews’ lives. I now work in a remote capacity from the Grand Rapids area. I have the incredible opportunity to continue working with a great team, on projects that I am passionate about, while being close to loved ones.

Hello! My name is Robert Kang, and I’m excited to be part of Studio+!

I have over 22 years of architectural experience, with a focus on high-density, mixed-use, and affordable tax-credit projects across Western region of United States.

In recent years, I’ve held the positions of; Director, Production and SW Regional BIM Director.

I’m now focusing on HCAI and DSA projects in California and applying my expertise to these new opportunities at Newport office.

In my free time, I enjoy playing the piano and guitar, and I find relaxation in reading Christian literature.

Hi there, I’m Emily! I work as a licensed Architect and Project Manager at Studio+’s Traverse City office. I am originally from Traverse City, and I feel privileged to be a part of a team that is dedicated to serving and contributing to the growth of this community.

I started my career in the A+D industry at Michigan State University, where I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design. During my time there, I gained experience working for the University’s in-house Infrastructure and Design Department. This experience fueled my desire to further my education and broaden my skill set. As a result, I pursued my Master of Architecture with a specialization in Urban Sustainability from the University of Oregon.

Before joining Studio+, I gained valuable experience working on a variety of project types, including prototype development for national retailers, multi-use high/mid-rises in Seattle, and single-family homes in Northern Michigan. Regardless of the project, my motivation stems from my passion for cultivating strong working relationships while creating and constructing spaces that unite people and enhance their daily lives.

When I’m not in the studio, you can find me exploring backroads and hiking trails with my dog, Ruca, and likely a book and trail beer in my pack.

Hi, I am Ava,

I am an Architectural Designer at Studio+ in Traverse City, Michigan. I graduated in 2023 from Lawrence Technological University with a Bachelors of Science in Architecture. I am pursing a Master of Architecture at Lawrence Tech as well.

My passion for architecture stems being exposed to the profession in high school and being able to get some hands on experience through course that were available. From there I attended LTU and continued to grow my knowledge and love for the field.

My hometown is Allen Park, Michigan which is the Metro Detroit area. Back at home my parents, six siblings and dog live there. We are always singing and dancing as well as having somewhere to be. So there is never a dull moment with my family! I also enjoy golfing and taking advantage of the weather when it is nice in Michigan.

My name is Jeremy, I live in Long Beach and am a Project Manager here in the Newport Beach office.

I was born and raised in the mountains of Central Pennsylvania and after graduating from Kent State University in Ohio I moved to New York City to begin my career in architecture. I worked for 10 years in NYC before moving to Southern California. Overall I have 17 years of professional experience and have spent most of my career focusing on healthcare and multifamily projects.

Outside of work I enjoy hiking, off-roading with my Jeep, riding motorcycles, and just generally spending time in nature or at the beach. I am obsessed with music and love to go out dancing. Sports that I enjoy watching are professional baseball, college volleyball or anything that my niece is competing in.

My current personal projects include trying to get better at swimming and yoga, as well as reading more.

Hi I’m Zack!

Born and raised in Princeton, NJ, my experience combines formal architecture training, project management, and leadership with hands-on construction experience. I consider myself a bit of a Swiss army knife as I bring a wide range of project experience to the team including education, hospitality, master planning, civic work, historic renovation, community engagement and single and multifamily housing. As a senior project coordinator, I bring my technical abilities, and client focused approach to each project to help grow the Los Angeles office. I graduated from Tulane University in 2019 with a master’s degree where I spent much of my time working closely with the greater New Orleans community.

Outside of the office, I love to surround myself with my family and friends who I enjoy cooking and spending time outdoors with. I grew up playing any sport I could get my hands on from basketball, to soccer or hockey and my newest love is golf. I believe this is where I gained my competitive spirit. I am always looking to try new food and travel near and far to find new experiences.

I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and spent my early years at Eastern Hills Christian Academy. After completing elementary school, I was honored to receive a legislative scholarship to attend the New Mexico Military Institute. My time at the Institute was incredibly formative; I achieved the rank of platoon sergeant and graduated with honors. It was also at the Institute where I discovered my passion for design, especially through a project in science class where I built balsa wood bridges.

After military school, I continued my education at the University of New Mexico. I spent four years at the School of Architecture and Planning, immersing myself in the field of architecture. Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture was a significant milestone, marking the start of my professional journey.

My first job out of college was with Southwest Glass and Glazing, the largest glazing subcontractor in New Mexico. Working there, I was involved in producing shop drawings for storefronts, curtainwalls, metal panels, and sunshades. This experience was invaluable, giving me hands-on knowledge of architectural design and construction.

In May 2018, I decided it was time for a new adventure and moved to the West Coast. I settled in California and started working with PBK Architects in Costa Mesa. As a job captain, I oversee projects from the schematic design phase through to agency review/approval and even continuing to support projects through the construction administration phase. My primary responsibilities include working on construction documents and preparing client presentations, which I find both challenging and rewarding.

I now live in Irvine with my girlfriend and our two cats. While I enjoy the beautiful weather and outdoor lifestyle that Orange County offers, I also make it a point to return to Albuquerque to visit family. Balancing my professional and personal life is important to me, and I cherish the time I spend enjoying the great outdoors.

Hi, I’m Nick

I am a Project Coordinator here at Studio+. I studied architecture at the University of Arizona, College of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape Architecture, prior to transferring and graduating from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona with a Bachelor of Architecture. My professional experience includes a diverse array of project scopes, at a variety of project phases, ranging from single-family and mixed-used residential to commercial, civic, and educational projects. Here at Studio+, I contribute to the team by providing my design, technical, and coordination management skills to all of the projects that I have the pleasure of engaging with.

Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I also like cooking new and interesting dishes, traveling and exploring new places, learning about different cultures, photographing urban and natural landscapes, and spending time pampering and spoiling my two cats.

My name is Jessica, and I am originally from Costa Rica. I have a Master’s degree holder in Architecture and a licensed in Costa Rica. My goal is to become an Architect Licensed in US in 2025. Furthermore, I am a certified Health Coach from IIN in New York.

Apart from my professional pursuits, I enjoy spending time with Rich and his family, ride a boat and BBQ during the weekends is our thing. I enjoy visit my family in Costa Rica. During my free time, I engage in reading personal finance books and conducting interviews with foreign Architects in the US for personal motivation and sharing valuable insights with others who are also in the process.

I have a passion for fitness and have participated in bodybuilding competitions in VA three times. My daily workout routines are a priority, usually scheduled in the early mornings before work.

Fun fact: I played soccer with Costa Rican’s national team for 5 years. I loved it!

I am grateful for the abundance of opportunities and the privilege of being surrounded by wonderful people. I look forward to connecting with you soon.

Hi, I am Anait,

I was born in Armenia. I graduated from Polytechnic Institute in Yerevan (Armenia), renamed presently as National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia.
I arrived to the United States in 1992 and have one son and 3 beautiful grandchildren.
I have been practicing architecture since my graduation, and have been working at TDM Architects (now Studio+), for the past 21 years.

My name is Manuel Alvariño, originally from Camagüey, Cuba, I have been residing in Tampa, Florida since 2005. My architectural journey began with three years of studies at my hometown University in Cuba. Since then, I have continued to expand my education and professional experience in the United States. I hold a Master degree in Architecture from the University of South Florida, complemented by foundational studies at Hillsborough Community College.

My career highlights began with receiving the 2018 AIA Florida/Caribbean Honor Award for Theoretical/Research Design with my graduate thesis project. This recognition highlights my dedication to pushing architectural boundaries and exploring innovative new frontiers.

As a Project Manager, my goal is to ensure our clients achieve the best possible outcomes for their projects. With over a decade of experience, I navigate challenges effectively to ensure that the final design not only meets their needs but also complies with all relevant standards.

Outside of my professional endeavors, I find fulfillment in family life with my wife and my two children. In my leisure time, I enjoy activities such as fishing, grilling and scuba diving. These pursuits not only rejuvenate my spirit but also provide new perspectives that enrich my architectural practice.

“Inspired by challenges, driven by creativity, and be happy”

Hello, I am Neha Arora. I come from India, and the U.S. has been home for the past 19 years. Growing up as an army kid, we moved frequently, which allowed me to attend seven different schools. This journey exposed me to diverse cultures and an interest in local ways of life. I believe this led me to architecture, where I developed an appreciation for vernacular design, particularly the works of Ando and Bawa.

I have a bachelor’s degree in architecture from India and a master’s from Northeastern University. I am a licensed architect with 13 years of professional experience spanning projects in both public and private sectors, primarily multifamily housing, amenities, and restaurants/food service.

I am passionate about turning design ideas into practical outcomes. I also enjoy balancing the creative and business sides of a project, and in that, I help teams plan projects, guide design progress, streamline processes, and create solutions around quality and efficiency.

Outside of work, I am a proud mom to two wonderful girls and a proud wife to a supportive husband—they are my lifeline. I love to read when I can and have managed to get my older one hooked, while working on the younger one. My ideal time off is relaxing with a great book by the water, while my family play in the background.

Hi! My name is Samantha Bain, but I usually go by Sam. I am originally from Denville, New Jersey. I graduated from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations. Since graduating, I have been networking and making connections while also substitute teaching to expand my professional skill sets and creativity.

I have experience in marketing, research, and social media from school and past internships and customer service working in the restaurant industry. I am a creative and hard-working individual who adapts well to new situations, eager to learn and take on new responsibilities. I am passionate about helping people and looking for a career where I can continue to strengthen my skills.

You can find me connecting with nature outside of the workplace and always taking on an adventure.

Hello, I’m Ana! I’m a recent graduate in Architecture from the Savannah College of Art and Design, Magna Cum-Laude, and I’m serving as an Architectural Designer here at Studio+ in Tampa, Florida.

I was born in Croatia and was raised in different places like Croatia, Canada and, Turkey, but my architectural journey took off during high school in the United Arab Emirates, where I gained a unique perspective on design, sparking my passion for architecture.

At eighteen, I decided to venture to the United States to further my educational journey by attending SCAD. While at SCAD, I diligently pursued my degree and worked on various projects and competitions within Savannah, GA, and abroad.During this time, I also lived and interned in Los Angeles, CA, to further my knowledge and gain a first-person perspective on different sectors within architecture. Upon graduation, I moved to Florida, fell in love with the community, and joined an incredible and honest team here at Studio+.

When I’m not in the office, I surround myself with my family and friends, test the limits of my cooking capabilities, and try new things. I also grew up playing sports like fencing, swimming and softball, which really shaped the person I am, so I love activities that bring out the athlete in me.

Hello, I’m Javier Alvarado. I was born and raised in Lorain, Ohio, as a second-generation citizen. My grandparents on my dad’s side came from Puerto Rico, and my mother’s side came from Italy. After high school, I enlisted in the U.S. Army with the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) of 37F (Psychological Operations Specialist). I spent just one year serving as a reserve unit member before being released due to medical reasons. To this day, I appreciate everything I learned during that year, as it helped mold me into the person I needed to become.

I graduated from Kent State University with a BS in Architecture in 2023. I am only the second person within my family to have ever graduated from college. This has always been a goal of mine, as I grew up as the fourth of seven siblings, and our competitiveness runs deep due to our similar ages.

Outside of architecture, I grew up playing various sports with my older brothers, such as baseball, basketball, football, and even tried my hand at bowling for some time. I believe this is where my competitiveness started, as I always wanted to impress my parents by outperforming my older brothers despite being younger.

I joined Studio+ in September after moving to Florida from Ohio following my graduation to be a part of the team in Lakeland. I look forward to working with and getting to know everyone here.