About | Emersion Design

emersion DESIGN provides thoughtful and sustainable value through professional services in architecture, planning, interior design, structural engineering, and sustainability consulting for clients interested in strategic quality design.

23 Registered Professionals

20 LEED Accredited Professionals

7 LEED AP BD+C

3 LEED Green Associates

2 WELL Accredited Professional

1 LFA

1 CPHC

1 GGP

1 Accredited Learning Environment Planner

LEED For Neighborhood Development Regionalization State Chair

Signatories Of The 2030 Commitment & Challenge

Office
310 Culvert Street, Suite 100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 USA
513 841 9100

Awards for our work.

bAwards

People

jacob bernans

Masters of Architecture, University of Cincinnati

Bachelors of Science in Architecture, University of Cincinnati

A recent addition to the emersion DESIGN team, Jacob’s passion for drawing and creativity, whether that be an architectural sketch or whimsical illustration, fuels his desire to convey meaning and Beauty through visual representation. Stemming from his Master of Architecture thesis work at the University of Cincinnati, he views his craft in art and the architectural profession as a pursuit aimed at “...nothing less than the upliftment of the human spirit” (St. JPII). Herein this desire lies his eagerness to use his talents and experiences to serve and inspire those around him, whether that be in his personal artistic endeavors, an office setting, or in teaching younger students…a new passion taking shape back at his alma mater.

LEED GA

architectural designer

aaron bodart

Graduate University of Cincinnati

Registered Architect

As a father and an architect, Aaron is all about creation. Not only does his world come alive through the unique perspective of this children, but as an architect he transforms ideas into a new, physical reality. He enjoys the complex puzzle of architecture; laying out the space, noting where the intricacies lay, and finding a home for each need within the building takes technical expertise and dedication. His commitment is renewed by the rush of gratification that arises when he can admire the finished building with his kids and say, “I helped create that.”

senior project architect

christie boron

Graduate Miami University, Oxford

Registered Architect

LEED Accredited Professional

Accredited Learning Environments Planner

25+ years of experience as an architect with an emphasis on 21st-century learning environments

Experience in designing and managing projects ranging from small renovations to major new construction projects of $150 million

Christie was blessed to grow up in a family that loved to travel. They traveled to every state except Alaska before she went off to college. After conquering her 50th state a few summers ago with her husband and two daughters, she began to realize that her travel experience formed her career path. She took advice from nature and documented her inspiration: 1) Advice from a hot spring to an architect: Why do “earth tones” suggest muted colors? Am I not of the earth? 2) Advice from the forest to an architect: Don't forget that light can be a building material. Protect the creatures that call it home. Don’t forget your roots. 3) Advice from a mountain to an architect: Strive to give your visitors a sense of awe. Take people to new heights. Provide inspiring views. 4) Advice from a dandelion to an architect: Make a wish for those who cannot imagine. Dream for those who live in nightmares. Believe for those who have lost hope. Celebrate the little things. Don’t forget to blow the seeds of your creative spirit, and spread the joy.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP, ALEP

principal | learning client leader

mike boron

Graduate University of Cincinnati and Thomas More College

Registered Architect

NCARB

25+ years of experience as a Project Architect and Construction Administrator

Mike’s attention to detail is not only evident in our project success stories, but also found in his personal carpentry portfolio. As an excellent maker and worker, we love having Mike on our team. He brings extensive value to any project, with former experience as a Senior Project Architect & Lead Construction Administrator he knows how to get the job done.

RA, NCARB

architect | consultant

michael a. chapman

Graduate Ohio State University

Graduate Miami University

Registered Landscape Architect

Project Management Professional (PMP)

LEED Accredited Professional

Nearly 25 years of experience as a landscape architect, business leader and project manager in the private and government sectors

Michael enjoys the art and science of problem solving. He believes the word “problem” should not be viewed negatively but rather as the reason we are able to discover new opportunities and creations. When he is not at work, you can find him renovating his 1922 bungalow or camping with his family. Since he can remember, he has always had a passion for breathing new life into antiquated and neglected things. Mike also feels a strong connection to the outdoors. Growing up near a 300-acre nature preserve heavily influenced his interests in both landscape architecture and environmental science.

PMP, RLA, LEED AP

principal | federal government client leader

jim cheng

Graduate Cornell University

Registered Architect

NCARB

LEED Accredited Professional

When we asked Jim, "What's your hidden talent?" He said, "I'm still looking." We suspect that Jim doesn't need a hidden talent because his design skills are so apparent and simply remarkable. With over 40 years of experience as a Design Architect, Jim’s work has been recognized for excellence by the AIA, GSA, USACE, and USAF, and honored in regional, national and international design competitions. Jim integrates design as a key element of each client’s financial and strategic objectives. He was lead designer for the American Red Cross Cincinnati Regional Headquarters, the University of Cincinnati’s Procter Hall renovation, the Information Technology Complex Master Plan/Phase I Supercomputing Center, and the Art Academy Renovation at the Cincinnati Art Museum. As an independent consultant, he was lead designer for a $250 million lab, research, and aerospace medicine complex. As a designer and team leader for civic, cultural, university, corporate and government facilities, any project with Jim is bound for success and thoughtful design.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP

sr. designer | consultant

bryant cherry

Graduate University of Cincinnati

Previous HVAC designer

25+ years of experience as Guru and IT Administrator

Is this something you think you can do? That was the question Bryant faced when first asked to join emersion DESIGN. After years of HVAC design and drafting, Bryant’s love for tinkering with electronics and helping people with software and computer issues gave others the insight to see that his skills went beyond his HVAC savvy. It never occurred to Bryant that his love for electronics and technology would transform into something he could do as an IT professional. Bryant’s patience, intellect, dedication and work ethic is key to the ongoing daily operation of emersion DESIGN. Every day. Love your work and you never work a day in your life.

IT administrator

byron cherry

Graduate University of Cincinnati

extensive plumbing design experience

30+ years of experience in CAD/BIM management

Projects range in education, workplace, retail, correction, government and private sectors

One might ask “What does designing plumbing systems and being an elite CAD/BIM systems troubleshooter over the span of 30 years have to do with grilling?” Patience. I’ve learned over time it takes quite a bit of patience to do both. Come by the house on any given weekend during the spring, summer or fall and you might find me on the deck enjoying one of my favorite past times; preparing a meal on the grill or smoker (charcoal, not gas). Nothing says patience more than babysitting a grill and waiting for the perfect time to take something off or turn it.

director of CAD/BIM operations

christian drummond

University of Cincinnati, 2025

Pursuing architecture license through NCARB and LEED Green Associate certification this summer

Christian Drummond is entering his fourth year at University of Cincinnati, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture with a minor in Sociology. With a strong passion for design and a heart for improving the communities around us, Christian hopes to use his expertise to focus on building up areas and serving those who need it most. Design is Christian's passion, but his real fulfillment only happens if he serves others through his work. Ultimately, his goal is to reach and help as many people as possible. With his air Pods always on hand, he is eager to jump into any task and learn new skills. In his spare time, Christian enjoys running, bowling, and producing electronic and hip-hop music under the name DrumBeatz.

architectural intern

shannon duffy

Graduate Miami University, Oxford

Registered Architect (Ohio& Illinois)

NCARB

LEED Accredited Professional

40+ years of experience as an architect

Shannon has come to realize that what she likes about architecture and travel has nothing to do with seeing sites but everything to do with experiencing the culture. Shannon holds the expression of community, the celebration of food, the recognition of public spaces, and the embrace of the natural environment dear to her heart and her design work. She knows that the quiet park off a busy street, the small temple in the midst of a lush landscape, the local dish served with pride, and the busy intersections of daily life all tell a story. The way people live and work and interact with the environment - built and natural - is constantly revealing new information. These discoveries alter how she thinks about places and spaces. We love Shannon's awareness of the wider world and can't wait to see what her next journey will bring!

RA, NCARB, LEED AP

senior project architect

chad edwards

Graduate University of Cincinnati

Registered Architect

NCARB

LEED AP

LFA

Nearly 30 years of experience

Why are we here? This is a daunting question for many of us, which can take a lifetime to uncover and fulfill. Chad firmly believes that we were made for some definite purpose and that our lives are not to be spent on ourselves. This takes the form of sacrificial love. Chad works with this purpose in mind, always striving to be the best steward he can be and serving our clients with integrity.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP, LFA

principal

hannah edwards

Graduate Elmhurst University

"From the beginning, You have blessed man with work so that he may grow in Your image and likeness. Teach me to see my work as a true path to holiness and way of serving You and others. Keep me always mindful of the example of Your Son, Jesus, who, though God, took up a servant's nature and worked humbly among us as a carpenter." -St. Francis de Sales

marketing coordinator

marina eger

Marina joined emersion DESIGN with experience gained in the banking, restaurant, and business brokerage industries, providing support in branch management, restaurant bookkeeping and accounting support, and various office and administrative assistance duties. Her non-traditional and varied background allows her to build on previous knowledge and experience as she approaches the challenges of her position at emersion DESIGN. Her personal philosophy is: “Whatever I can do to make my company successful makes me successful.”

office manager

rick fussner

Graduate University of Colorado

Registered Architect

20+ years of professional experience

God is in the detail. Rick’s thorough, detail-oriented mind draws him towards order, the design process, repetitive patterns, and simplicity, where he finds profound beauty. When a project marries good design and practicality, he is satisfied - knowing that the team asked all the right questions. An architect in an engineer’s body, Rick is a nuts and bolts kind of guy and is always pursuing the elusive perfection.

project architect

amber gentry

Graduate University of Cincinnati

National Council for Interior Design Qualification

LEED Accredited Professional

Amber thrives on emotive design. While she deeply appreciates thoughtful architectural design, her true passion consists in developing an interior space that celebrates vitality. Her holistic designs benefit the human person. She accomplishes this through attentiveness toward her clients. This allows her to sift through their ideas to define how their desires will be translated into a livable, viable, workable space. Amber composes spaces that are a positive reflection of her client - welcoming, inspiring, timeless and beautiful.

NCIDQ, LEED AP

senior interior designer

nikki goldstein

Registered Architect

LEED Green Associate

NCARB

Master of Architecture, University of Cincinnati

Bachelor of Architecture, University of Cincinnati

From drawing, knitting, water coloring, or ceramics Nikki’s creative wheels are always turning. She is always ready to try something new. It is the ever-changing nature of architecture and the hunt for design solutions that keeps her interested day after day. She can quickly uncover solutions when designing and always adds a sophisticated touch of thoughtfulness to each concept. Nikki’s creative flare is never without intentionality, making her one awesome architect.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C

design architect

hannah grady

Masters of Architecture and Masters of Historic Preservation, University of Maryland

A history fanatic and a lover of houseplants, Hannah is very interested in unpacking the surrounding context and lifespans. “Will another plant fit within the context of my apartment?” Yes, the answer the always yes. “Will this plant stay alive?” Questionable, but worth the risk. More specifically within design, Hannah enjoys viewing projects in regard to their place in time, their surrounding environment, and questioning how the current context could change over the next 10-50 years. She is eager to lead projects that are built to last, withstanding the test of time and invoking positive emotions along the way. Outside of her time with emersion, Hannah is most proud of her summer internship with the National Parks Service where she documented conditions for 17th century hunting cabins. Now, as she trains to become a Project Manager her passions for historic preservation and inspiring design can take the driver seat!

jr. project manager

amy green

Graduate University of Cincinnati

National Council for Interior Design Qualification

Whole Body Alignment Program

Nearly 15 years of experience in Interior Design

When Amy’s oldest child started school, she began to see firsthand how spaces impact our health. Likewise, in work meetings, she constantly heard complaints of pain and discomfort. from clients. This her to a flurry of research on how alignment, movement, and focus intersect in a space. Her wheels start spinning with furniture and space solutions that allow for more movement throughout the day. Amy understands that whole body wellness is just as much about how often you use your body as it is about the way you use your body. Amy wants her clients to be able to use their body better – to feel better. Amy continues to excel in her passion of interior design, creating healthy, functional, beautiful spaces for all to enjoy.

NCIDQ, GGP

senior interior designer

kellie grob

Graduate Wright State University

APR

25+ years of experience in marketing, communications, and business development

Kellie brings a customer-centric perspective to her work and believes the true measure of success is the relationships that are built and preserved over time. Her past work at a professional services firm allows her to fully embrace her business development activities. Kellie's deep understanding of emersion DESIGN and the clients they serve allows for new engagements that are mutually beneficial and lead to long-lasting partnerships.

APR

director of business development | consultant

alan hautman

Graduate Miami University, Oxford

Registered Architect

LEED AP BD+C

Nearly 40 years of experience as an architect, business leader and project manager

Co-founder of emersion DESIGN

Experience in design and design/build projects ranging from small renovations to major new construction projects of $100 million.

What does a love for wine making have to do with architecture? Maybe nothing, or maybe everything. A good wine is created to be enjoyed, but highly technical to produce, requiring great attention to detail. Alan is passionate about his wine making, which he started in high school, and he even grew his own grapes at one time. Every year, he fine tunes his skills to constantly pursue that perfect glass of wine. Alan co-founded emersion DESIGN after being an Architect for nearly 20 years. If you asked him, he would tell you he is a nuts and bolts guy, detail oriented. He is passionate about providing spaces for clients that meet all the technical points but also the aesthetic ones. His experience, in life and architecture, helps him provide spaces that meet all the design criteria and are thoughtful, satisfying to experience - which can be appreciated, much like a fine glass of wine.

RA, LEED AP BD+C

principal

michael haynes

Graduate Miami University, Oxford

VR Enthusiast and Project Visualization Guru

In a world of increasing complexity and scale, we cannot forget that it is the details that make it all possible. Michael has always been detail-oriented, and it started early with his never-ending questions of how anything and everything around us works. These questions continue to this day and help drive his design process; they allow a team to identify client and project goals in order to deliver solutions that are on-time and on-budget. Michael’s love for the details does not stop at work - he spends many hours spent tinkering with electronics and exploring our rapidly changing world. He also enjoys staying active through athletics (such as soccer and biking), traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

designer

jennifer helderman

Graduate Virginia Tech

LEED Green Associate

Inspired by the narratives of science fiction, Jennifer believes that integrating emerging technologies with architecture has the potential to significantly improve the human experience. She enjoys researching innovative ways to solve problems and working with a team to execute complex designs. She values a strong sense of community and strives to make a difference in the world around her through volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cincinnati as a mentor and with The Scratching Post cat shelter as an adoptions counselor. When she’s not working or volunteering, you can find her running along the streets of Cincinnati or in her home studio recording original songs.

LEED GA

designer | consultant

whitney huver

Graduate Tulane University

Whitney grew up crafting with her mother and building things in the garage with her father. This creative outlet propelled her into the world of architecture, where she continues to design for solutions. Outside of work, you can still find her in the woodshop creating new things. Despite Whitney’s innovative spirit, her favorite quote is, “Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else.”

RA, NCARB, LEED AP

architect | consultant

kevin kastle

Graduate, University of Cincinnati

Kevin brings a warm spirit and a great perspective to the design team. He comes with a diverse portfolio, both in work and travels, ranging from church design to mixed-use development. He has also participated in a Sustainable Urbanism course that took place throughout ﬁve cities in India, visited Rome and Florence, and lived in China for fourteen months! If he is not refining drawings, he is likely creating more AI-generated imagery or exploring local shops in Over The Rhine.

architectural designer

steve kimball

Graduate Kentucky State University

Graduate Eastern Kentucky University

Juris Doctor Chase College of Law

Project Management Professional (PMP)

LEED Accredited Professional

40+ years experience in design, project management and business leadership

Co-founder emersion DESIGN

When not engaged at emersion DESIGN, Steve enjoys reading. The exposure to other ideas and cultures in a variety of fiction and non-fiction works provides an opportunity to broaden his knowledge and challenge views of politics, society and business. He is always looking for a better way. Steve firmly believes that the ability and opportunity to think freely, exchange ideas, and establish a path for independent success is vital to both our firm culture and society.

PMP, LEED AP

project manager | science & technology client leader

johannes kolshorn

Graduate University of Cincinnati

Registered Architect (New Mexico)

NCARB

AIA

Johannes was born and raised in Ohio but has always had a passion for experiencing new places. After high school, Johannes traveled abroad to Europe and North Africa for a year. He eventually returned to attend school in Cincinnati, graduating from the UC DAAP program. In his 30 years in architecture, Johannes has lived many places in the country, including stays in Nashville, Chicago, and Taos, New Mexico. Johannes has worked in both residential and commercial architecture, working in custom home design, educational facilities, flagship retail, hospitality, and entertainment facilities. Johannes and his wife even designed and built their own passive solar home together. In his free time, Johannes enjoys cooking, road trips, landscape photography, and music.

AIA, NCARB

director of architecture

adam luginbill

Graduate Cornell University

Registered Architect

NCARB

LEED Accredited Professional

Can one person build a complex modern building? Not a chance. Constructing a building is inherently a collaborative process. Adam takes delight in working with clients, the project team, and contractors to craft solutions that go beyond simply meeting the needs of the occupants. Instead, the space brings them health, well-being and delight. He is passionate about building performance and sustainability, and he is grateful for the rich experience he had as both Project Architect and LEED AP for the first LEED Platinum building in the state of Ohio, the Fernald Preserve Visitor Center.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP

senior project architect

brett macht

Graduate University of Cincinnati

Registered Architect

NCARB

LEED AP BD+C

Architecture is more than just the sum of program and place, it’s a community experience. As a kid at heart, a life-long learner, and a social butterfly, Brett’s true passion can be found in collaboration and advancing the whole person. He believes the best solutions are always the product of teamwork and relationships. Brett works alongside clients to deliver projects that inspire, ignite creativity, and engage. As the leader of the cultural market, Brett unites his passion for people and learning with the design of spaces that enrich the community. His greatest inspiration comes from his family as he works to advance community through the built environment.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C

principal | cultural client leader

cindy mckiernan

Graduate Miami University

Cindy began her career in retail management and buying. It was there she learned a valuable business principle: the customer is always right! No matter the industry or who your “customer” is, fixing a problem and making the customer happy should be the highest priority because “good customer service costs MUCH less than bad customer service”! That service-oriented thinking drives her personal and spiritual life as well and she believes that happiness is a by-product of serving others and the effort to make someone else happy.

marketing manager

andrew morrison

Graduate University of Cincinnati

If Andrew is not studying the implications of the built environment, you can find him on a bike ride or playing frisbee. The outdoors is where Andrew both recharges and finds professional inspiration. The inherent beauty of nature moves Andrew towards good design. Andrew recognizes the ways in which the built environment affects the natural one and understands the deep responsibility he has as an architectural designer. Andrew is ready to help emersion move the industry towards genuine stewardship.

LEED AP BD+C

designer

mary clare peck

Graduate Steubenville University

Graduate Wilmington College, BA in Accounting and Business Administration: Management

Mary Clare knows how to account for the past and move forward with a spirit of love. With a BA in History, a certification in accounting, and a mother of seven we mean this quite literally. Mary Clare’s commitment to learning and diverse skillset will help keep emersion on the right track. Her favorite quote serves as the perfect bridge between her three, main disciplines of history, accounting, and motherhood; “We are not the sum of our weaknesses and failures, we are the sum of the Father’s love for us and our real capacity to become the image of His Son, Jesus.”- John Paul II.

Office Manager

andrew plogsted

Registered Architect

LEED AP BD+C

Masters Architecture, Miami University

B.S. Architectural Engineering Technology, University of Cincinnati

U.S. Green Building Council Member

With over two decades of experience, Andy’s passion for architecture is rooted in sustainable and client-centered design. In the early 2000's, Andy served as a Sustainability Manager for Cincinnati Public Schools, guiding green building decisions while they built 22 schools to USGBC LEED standards. From promoting the reuse of street trees into furniture to green roof curriculum, Andy is always looking for ways to work with nature and the client’s needs, not against. In his spare time, you may see him around the West side of Indiana tending to his garden or kickstarting his very own brewery!

AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C

senior project architect | project manager

steve ricci

Graduate University of Cincinnati

Registered Professional Engineer (Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky)

LEED Accredited Professional

15+ years of experience as a Structural designer/engineer in the private and public sectors.

No matter if the task at hand is running calculations to make a building stand up or going to the gym to become super buff, Steve is always ready for a challenge. This is why he chose to go into such a technical field. Besides being a contractor’s best friend, Steve prides himself in keeping his yard in perfect condition. Don't let the super smarts and super looks fool ya, Steve is a normal guy who just loves what he does and the people he works with.

PE, LEED AP

senior structural engineer

jayme ritter

Graduate Savannah College of Art and Design

Registered Architect

NCARB

LEED AP BD + C

WELL AP

A love of windows – the light that comes through them, the shadows they create, the vistas they frame, the variety of colors, shapes and sizes – is what piqued Jayme’s interest in architecture. From there, the vast differences in the built environment throughout the world and throughout history completely hooked her. Jayme truly enjoys listening to her clients’ needs, helping them to problem solve and trouble shoot, so she can translate their desires into a workable architectural solution. Her innate interest in culture and history - along with her desire to see, touch and experience more of the world - compels her and her husband to travel as frequently as possible.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP

project manager

m. simon sapsford

Graduate Harvard University

Graduate University of Cincinnati

Registered Professional Engineer

40+ years of experience as a Structural engineer, leader, and entrepreneur

Co-founder of emersion DESIGN

Experienced in a variety of design/bid/build and design/build projects as varied as a Net-Zero Energy police station, historic seismic retrofits, side wall travelling jib cranes, wooden roller coasters, site cast curved tilt up concrete, earth covered magazines, site adapts of chain stores and corporate campus headquarters

What does a love for soccer, coaching and Jesus have to do with being a structural engineer, manager and entrepreneur? Simon will tell you that he has an appreciation for a free flowing process where every member of the team has a role and responsibility that leads to the meeting of goals and the overall success of the team. Simon wants to ensure that we treat every stakeholder in our projects and in our firm with respect. When we can approach our projects jointly and thoughtfully, we are able to deliver successful projects every time!

principal

melissa striet

Miami University, Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, 2001

Xavier University, Master of Business Administration (focus in Marketing), 2009

Ready to assist on all things marketings, Melissa comes to emersion with the best of both worlds- an undergraduate background in architectural design and graduate studies in marketing! She has a deep appreciate for well-designed spaces and is often motivated by the beauty of nature and the joys of family life. Whether she is carting her three kids around to their weekly extracurriculars or exploring a new hiking trail, Melissa absorbs it all and enjoys experiencing the world through the lens of her children.

marketing coordinator

tim sperling

Graduate Miami University, Oxford

When Tim isn’t refining his technical skillsets, you can find him cooking his famous white chicken chili and cornbread skillet. Just like a good meal, Tim knows that architecture is able to go beyond merely physical creation and make positive, social change. His passion for the job rests on the belief that good architecture and design can rebuild communities, restore natural environments, and reshape people’s lives. Tim is ready to create beautiful spaces at emersion DESIGN that bring people together and help mold unforgettable experiences.

WELL AP, CPHC, LEED AP BD+C

technical designer

mark stedtefeld

Graduate University of Cincinnati

43+ years of professional experience

Registered Architect

NCARB

CDT

Do you believe in magic? When you watch a professional magician, are you in awe of what they can do? Magic is a hobby and love of Mark's. When he sees a skilled magician perform, he applauds not only the trick, but his/her ability to transform a simple illusion into total wonder for the audience. To Mark, the “patter” and performance is as good if not better than the illusion itself. Architects do the same when they are asked to design a structure for a client. Anyone can build a box with a roof, but an Architect transforms the box into something that inspires whoever comes in contact with the building, be it the owner, the tenant, the visitor or passerby. The building can then uplift and inspire that individual in his or her life. This is why Mark is an Architect. To move people and make the world better through architecture. This is why he’s at emersion DESIGN.

RA, NCARB, CDT

emeritus principal

joe sweeney

Graduate University of Detroit

Registered Architect

NCARB

LEED Accredited Professional

Joe is a project architect and project management professional with an extensive history of developing and driving innovative design projects that exceed client expectations. He is a trusted team leader and coordinator who commits to clients with passion and dedication. Joe is a relationship development specialist with a proven background in establishing strong alliances among cross-functional teams, clients, vendors, and the community. He has over 40 years of experience in designing educational, military, local government, and cultural spaces.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP

senior project architect

nicole velasquez

Graduate Milwaukee Area Technical College

Student University of Cincinnati

Growing up in a creative household where people designed, doodled, and built, Nicole was naturally led to a lifelong passion for all things design and the process of making. During 9+ years of operations management, Nicole observed the various ways design decisions impacted all aspects of daily operations. These observations led to her decision to return to school. She cannot help but analyze these things and can often be found straightening walk-off mats and wiping up spills wherever she goes.

interior designer

tim wiley

Graduate Miami University, Oxford

Graduate Clemson University

Registered Architect

LEED Accredited Professional

NCARB

20+ years of experience as an architect, business leader and project manager in the public and private sectors

At first glance, people may think that architecture and sports are two completely different worlds. Yet, Tim has a competitive passion for both and, as he’ll be quick to point out, there are many overlapping themes. Leadership, teamwork, preparation and execution are some of the critical foci whether you’re attempting the game winning drive or meeting a deadline. Tim stays active and enjoys many sports including softball, golf, racquetball and cycling. When he is not at work or out on the field, Tim loves to spend time with his family and travel.

RA, NCARB, LEED AP

principal | civic government and higher education client leader

chris willis

Registered Architect

LEED Accredited Professional

Member of American Institute of Architects

Graduate University of Cincinnati

As a daughter, mother, and former school board member, Chris understands that “with great power comes great responsibility.” Her desire to care for others and inspire them to choose joy permeates her outlook on life and overflows to every client she advances. Chris brings a unique blend of perspectives as a laboratory planning/programming specialist in the Science & Technology market. Regarded as an industry expert, she has co-authored the National Institute of Health's Design Requirements Manual and has been a peer reviewer of NIH grants. As a former chair of the AIA Design Awards Committee, Chris’ practice of architecture balances art and technology.

AIA, LEED AP

director of laboratory planning

Awards

2022

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Community Impact Award

Covington Alleys Rejuvenation

2022

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Sustainability Award

Bethany School Regenerative Campus

2022

FIREHOUSE Station Design, Satellite Station, Bronze Award

West Chester Township Station 73

2022

Learning By Design, Outstanding Project Award

Little Miami School District, Early Childhood Development Center

2022

US Green Building Council, Ohio Leadership Awards, Green Building of the Year Honorable Mention

Bethany School

2021

Learning By Design, Honorable Mention

Bethany Schools

2020

Law Enforcement Design, Gold Award

District 3 Police Station

2020

Ohio Engineering Excellence Awards, Honor Award

Art Climb, Cincinnati Art Museum

2020

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Landscape Architecture Award

Art Climb, Cincinnati Art Museum

2019

Net Zero Trailblazer Award

Cincinnati District 3 Police Station

2019

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Interior Architecture Honor Award

Muntz Hall, University of Cincinnati

2019

Cincinnati Business Courier

Best Places to Work Finalist

2018

Sustainability & Energy SMART Awards, Sustainability & Energy Project, New Construction Business Award

District 3 Police Headquarters

2018

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Merit Award

Cincinnati Art Museum Schmidlapp Gallery

2017

Build Magazine, Best Full-Service Interior Design Company - USA

2017

Build Magazine, Best USA Commercial Design/Build Project

District 3 Police Headquarters

2017

ASHRAE National Technology Award, Commercial Buildings New Category

District 3 Police Headquarters

2017

Design/Build Institute of America, National Excellence Award

District 3 Police Headquarters

2016

Cincinnati Design Awards, Honor Award

District 3 Police Headquarters

2016

PCI National Design Awards, Sustainable Design Winner

District 3 Police Headquarters

2016

PCI Regional Design Awards, Sustainable Design Winner

District 3 Police Headquarters

2015

Green Business Awards, Finalist

District 3 Police Headquarters

2015

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Honorable Mention

District 3 Police Headquarters

2015

Cincinnati Preservation Association, Local Preservation Excellence Award

Chatfield College

2015

Green Business Awards, Green Advocacy Award

Greater Cincinnati Green Business Council (emersion DESIGN, Member)

2015

Cincinnati Business Courier

Best Places to Work Finalist

2014

Federal Energy & Water Management Award

Advanced Power & Thermal Research Lab WPAFB

2014

USAF Design Award, Merit Award

Advanced Power & Thermal Research Lab WPAFB

2014

Building Design + Construction, Giants 300 Report, #75 A/E Firm Overall

2014

Cincinnati Business Courier, Best Places to Work

2013

Cincinnati Business Courier, The List - Greenest Tri-State Buildings

Highland Medical Office Building

2013

Cincinnati Business Courier, The List - Greenest Tri-State Buildings

American Red Cross Regional HQ

2013

Cincinnati Business Courier, The List - Greenest Tri-State Buildings

Cincinnati Art Museum Longworth Wing

2013

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Merit Award

Lick Run Watershed Master Plan

2013

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Honor Award

Cincinnati Art Museum Longworth Wing

2013

Green Business Awards, Green Advocacy

Energy Efficiency Training for Ohio Architects, Engineers, and Developers

2013

Cincinnati Business Courier, Best Places to Work

2013

Cincinnati Business Courier, The List - Greenest Tri-State Buildings

emersion DESIGN Headquarters

2013

Building Design + Construction, Giants 300 Report, #61 A/E Firm Overall

2012

Socio Design Foundation, Honorable Mention

"Space by Subtraction"

2013

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Merit Award

Procter Hall Façade Renovation & Green Roof

2012

Cincinnati Business Courier, 55 Fastest Growing Companies

2012

Cincinnati Business Courier, Best Places to Work

2012

Ohio Environmental Council, Green Gala

emersion DESIGN Headquarters

2011

Green Business Awards, Design For NonProfit Winner

American Red Cross Regional HQ

2011

Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute, Finalist

Security Forces Operations Center WPAFB

2011

Government/Administration, Masonry Design

American Red Cross Regional HQ

2011

NCARB, SEED Grant for Architectural Development Projects

Roche Health Center

2011

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Merit Award

American Red Cross Regional HQ

2011

Green Business Awards, Design For Profit Winner

emersion DESIGN Office Expansion

2011

Cincinnati Business Courier, Best Places to Work

2011

SAME Kentuckiana Post, Small Business of the Year - Excellence in Engineering

2010

US Air Force Materiel Command Design Award, Citation Award for Concept Design

Security Forces Operations Center WPAFB

2010

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Honorable Mention

Blue Green Alliance - Green Jobs Research

2010

US Air Force Worldwide Design Award, Citation Award for Concept Design

Security Forces Operations Center WPAFB

2010

US Air Force Worldwide Design Award, Merit Award for Concept Design

Information Technology Complex Ph 1 WPAFB

2010

US Air Force Materiel Command Design Award, Design Concept Honor Award

WPAFB Human Performance Wing Complex

2010

US Air Force Worldwide Design Award, Honor Award for Concept Design

WPAFB Human Performance Wing Complex

2009

Hamilton County Development Center, Business Development Award / Tenant of the Year

2009

Green Building of America, Real Estate Construction Review

emersion DESIGN Office Expansion

2009

American Institute of Architects - Ohio Chapter Design Award, Honor Award

emersion DESIGN Offices - High Performance Design

2009

American Institute of Architects - Ohio Chapter Design Award, Honor Award

emersion DESIGN Offices - Interior Design

2008

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Honorable Mention

Over-The-Rhine Green Historic Study

2008

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Honor Award

LE3D Social Sustainability Rating System

2008

Cincinnati Region Design Awards - AIA, ASID, IIDA, ASLA, SEGD, Honorable Mention

Greening Over-the-Rhine

2008

IIDA Honor Award for Built Work, Honor Award

emersion DESIGN Office Expansion

2008

Greater Cincinnati Earth Coalition, Environmental Business of the Year