For the past 6 years, I have worked as a Project Manager and Senior Architect for two different firms that specialize in high-end, ground up residential projects, and I am looking to add to my growing knowledge of architectural design, construction and project management. I have extensive experience in Schematic Design through Construction Document issuance, GC bidding, contract negotiations, and billing through the life of a project. I also have experience in Construction Administration, client, contractor, and consultant coordination.
When I started at my first firm, we were a four person team and I was given the opportunity to manage many projects simultaneously while also contributing to the development of our firm’s profile. During this time - through increased social media output, the successful completion of multiple projects, and a carefully fostered reputation with clients, contractors and consultants - the firm grew to 15 people. This growth gave me the opportunity to manage multiple people on multiple projects, helping me to understand the importance of leadership, mentoring and collaboration. I also lead major parts of our onboarding process, carefully explaining our drawing standards, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and file organization systems.
I have experience working through all phases of a project, starting with contract negotiations and pre-design through construction administration and completion. I have worked directly with clients, contractors and consultants, while also leading our client meetings and most client communications. I have extensive experience working with contractors during construction, drawing through relevant details and helping to coordinate critical aspects of our designs. I have been the main point of contact for upwards of five general contractors simultaneously during construction. This experience has also included bid analysis, bid leveling, change order reviews, payment application reviews and contract negotiations.
I am searching for a practice where I can exercise both my design and management skills in a collaborative environment. I deeply value strong working relationships between colleagues, clients and builders. I am excited to have the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with a variety of new people. While my experience has been primarily in residential, I am open and interested in projects of all types and sizes.
Caplan Colaku Architecture, New York, NY, US, Senior/Project Architect
Managing the design and construction of NYC based art galleries and private residences. I have been involved in all phases of design and construction, including client meetings, consultant coordination, bidding, permitting and construction administration.
Studio MM Architect, New York, NY, US, Project Manager
Managed the design and construction of over 25 new construction homes and renovations in the Hudson Valley, Catskills, Berkshires and Tampa Florida. I have been involved in all phases of design and construction, including client meetings, consultant coordination, bidding, permitting and construction administration.
Tulane School of Architecture Woodshop, New Orleans, LA, US, Shop Worker
Required basic woodworking knowledge along with an understanding of the different machines available in the shop. Aside from shop maintenance, I was also expected to be able to to assist less experienced students.
Becker Architects, Highland Park, IL , Intern
Worked on schematic design and design development drawings for multiple residential projects including 3-D modeling and rendering. I also had the opportunity to contribute to construction documents, including wall sections and window details.
Robinette Demolition, Chicago, IL , Apprentice Laborer, Estimator and Project Manager
Gained on site construction experience demolishing built elements of existing commercial spaces. Learned how to put together estimates based on walkthroughs and take offs. I also had experience managing multiple projects via on site coordination and progress reports
Crawford Supply, Chicago, IL , Warehouse Management and Sales
I worked in both a warehouse capacity and also as a salesman. I was required to have knowledge of different fittings, pipes and other plumbing supplies and their application in residential and commercial construction.
Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, US, MArch, School of Architecture
Received my Masters of Architecture and my Minor in Real Estate
Masters Thesis Commendation, Honorable Mention
A total of ten commendation were given to the Tulane School of Architecture's thesis students based on our research and related project.
Selected for Small Center Thesis Exhibition, Nomination
Eight projects are selected every year to be a part of a secondary thesis exhibit to allow more people in New Orleans to view our work.
Selected Schematic Design UrbanBuild 11, 1st Place
During my time at Tulane, I participated in the URBANbuild program in which a team of students design and build a prototypical home in New Orleans. The selected scheme was authored by my partner and I and was chosen over six other proposals for construction. This program gave me an opportunity to develop a project from concept through construction. I gained experience in schematic and design development as well as construction documentation. Also, as a part of the build team, I was exposed to different fabrication techniques.
Redfield Prize For Excellence In Craft, Nomination
A nominated prize for excellence in craft, selected by a panel of professors.
