Brena Daly, CPHC
Designer|Seattle, WA
Meet the Global Visionaries: Our Team of Creative Minds
Our firm thrives on the fusion of ideas and perspectives from various cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. This rich tapestry of global talent allows us to approach each project with a fresh outlook, pushing the boundaries of conventional design and embracing the extraordinary.
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Brena Daly, CPHC
Designer|Seattle, WA
In what moment did you decide to become an architect?
In high school after meeting a family friend who was an architect – it sounded like the coolest job ever to me.
What’s your favorite building and why?
Louisiana museum – being there is magical + use of materials is amazing.
Do you have a particular design style?
Scandinavian Design is my favorite design aesthetic.
What is your most treasured possession?
A necklace made of amber from Lithuania, brought to America when fleeing during WWII.
Nikshith Reddy, Assoc. AIA
Designer
Nikshith Reddy, Assoc. AIA
Designer
What inspires you?
Life inspires me. I have an indiscriminate sense of passion for everything. But not so much time!
In what moment of time did you decide to become and architect?
18 years old when I was discussing career prospects with developers
Do you have a particular design style?
Yes. I am conscientious about the holistic lifecycle of a project with catering to provide aesthetic, ethical and health conscious design influenced and informed by the financial proforma.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of the work. You should never engage in action for the sake of reward, nor should you long for inaction.” -Lord Krishna, Bhagavad Gita
Katee Chard, AIA, NCARB
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Architect
Katee Chard, AIA, NCARB
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Architect
What is your favourite journey?
The journey home
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Jet Pilot
If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
A mermaid
Where would you like to live?
On a beach in the tropics.. I’m going to be a mermaid duh!
Who is your favourite hero of fiction?
Dagny Taggart –from Atlas Shrugged
David Huchteman, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Principal|Los Angeles, CA
Managing Director
David Huchteman, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Principal|Los Angeles, CA
Managing Director
With over 20 years of experience, David Huchteman manages our Los Angeles office and takes the lead on many of our civic sector projects, though, he is also has extensive experience in education, technology, commercial, mixed-use, and entertainment projects. David’s leadership style is distinctly collaborative, seamlessly combining technical proficiency, innovative design expertise, business development insight, and demonstrated leadership.
A Registered Architect in California and a dedicated advocate for sustainability with 15 years as a LEED AP, David has successfully overseen the completion of several LEED Platinum and LEED Gold certified projects. Holding a Bachelor of Architecture from The Pratt Institute in New York City and having completed Executive Education coursework in Integrated Project Management at Harvard GSD, David is committed to continuous learning and excellence in the field. In addition to his professional achievements, David is deeply passionate about mentorship. Currently serving as Chair for Pratt Institute’s Alumni Los Angeles Network’s volunteer board of directors, and having previously chaired USC’s Architectural Guild mentorship program, he has been an active mentor for six years, guiding and inspiring the next generation of industry professionals.
What inspires you?
Doing work for great clients that create positive impact in peoples’ lives.
Who are three of your favorite designers/architects?
Thom Mayne, Renzo Piano, Herzog and de Meuron.
What’s your favorite building and why?
The Pantheon. What’s not to love about the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome located in the middle of my favorite city in the world?
Sophia Wang
Designer|San Diego, CA
Sophia Wang
Designer|San Diego, CA
In what moment of time did you decide to become and architect?
When I came to terms with the fact that it’s ok to study the same thing as my parents.
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Pastry Chef or Artist
Do you play any musical instruments?
Piano
Craig Anderchak, ASID, NCIDQ
Principal|Atlanta
Director of Interiors
Craig Anderchak, ASID, NCIDQ
Principal|Atlanta
Director of Interiors
Craig leads and operates our Atlanta office and oversees all Interior Design projects across the firm. He is a mentor for our Interior Design team, ensuring that his colleagues receive the necessary support, training, and opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
Craig holds his NCIDQ certification and is a registered Interior Designer in the State of Georgia. He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design degree from The Florida State University. He is a past member of the FSU Interior Design Advisory Board and past Chapter President of ASID Georgia. Craig is a recognized subject matter expert and featured speaker and content creator within the Interior Design Industry. Over the past 26 years, he has designed and lead award winning solutions improving millions of square feet of space with clients such as SANDAG, Industrious, Mailchimp, Allsteel, Cushman & Wakefield, Porsche North America, Invest Atlanta, Clorox, BCG, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Verizon, Thompson Hine LLP, Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP, Baker Hostetler LLP, Baker Botts LLP, Whole Foods, Bacardi USA, EY, IBM, Ericsson, Habitat For Humanity, Boys and Girls Club of America, Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, Eaton, and Pandora/Sirius XM.
What brought you to Carrier Johnson?
The mission and story of the firm.
What (3) things do you want to be remembered for?
Kind, Loving, and Faithful
What architect do you admire most?
Mies Van Der Rohe
What was the best concert you ever attended?
Depeche Mode
Eric Martina
Designer|Los Angeles, CA
Eric Martina
Designer|Los Angeles, CA
In what moment of time you decide to become and architect?
When as a kid I built a whole city out of Legos on my bedroom floor, one could barely walk without stepping on something
What inspires you?
I love observing how cities pulse with life and energy, how they grow and evolve though cycles of boom and bust
What’s your favorite building and why?
Milano Centrale, one of Europe’s most majestic train stations. Not only does it impress with an epic main hall, iron canopy and historical features, it is also a modern hub for high speed, international, regional suburban and subway trains
Where did you grow up?
North-Eastern Italy
Steven Kiss, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, DBIA
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Architect
Steven Kiss, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, DBIA
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Architect
What is your motto?
KISS – Keep It Simple Silly
What architect do you admire most?
I.M. Pei
In what moment of time you decide to become and architect?
3rd Grade, we took an architecture tour of Downtown Chicago. Saw the First National Bank of Chicago building which has an optical illusion of sorts.
What is your most treasured possession?
My telescope
Jayson Ho
Senior Job Captain|San Diego, CA
Jayson Ho
Senior Job Captain|San Diego, CA
What is your motto?
Life is a plan of action. If you don’t have any plans, you are only part of someone else’s plan.
What profession other than your would you like to attempt?
Racecar Driver or Fitness Coach
Any pets (Names and Types)?
Mochi, Misa, Maui (Cats)Meiko (Puppy)
Aaron Frease, AIA, NCARB
Project Manager|Seattle, WA
Project Architect
Aaron Frease, AIA, NCARB
Project Manager|Seattle, WA
Project Architect
What inspires you?
My children and getting to see the world through their eyes.
Who are three of your favorite designers/ architects?
Tom Kundig, Norman Foster, Omar Gandhi
What (3) Things do you want to be remembered for?
My kindness and respect for others, for being a loving husband, and a loving dad.
Ose Etomi
Project Leader|Los Angeles, CA
Ose Etomi
Project Leader|Los Angeles, CA
What architect do you admire most?
Tadao Ando
Do you have a particular design style?
In my personal life I’m a Maximalist, I enjoy a lot of bold patterns and colors.
Which super power would you most like to have?
Teleportation, I could live anywhere in the world and experience so many beautiful cultures and places.
What is your motto?
You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take, so shoot your shot!
Ben Gist, AIA
Principal|Seattle, WA
Managing Director
Ben Gist, AIA
Principal|Seattle, WA
Managing Director
With over two decades of experience in the field of architecture and a passion for urban development, Ben has established himself as a prominent figure in the Pacific Northwest. He is widely recognized for his exceptional ability to navigate the intricacies of complex building projects while fostering efficient progress through effective communication and the cultivation of robust relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and fellow professionals.
As the Managing Principal of the Carrier Johnson + CULTURE Seattle office, Ben brings his visionary leadership and extensive expertise to the forefront of the architectural landscape. Under his guidance, the Seattle office thrives as a hub of creativity, innovation, and community engagement.
Not content with merely excelling within the confines of Carrier Johnson + Culture, Ben has extended his influence and dedication to the broader community through multiple community service activities. Currently, he serves a distinguished two-year term on the Seattle Design Commission, where his insights and expertise play a pivotal role in shaping the city’s urban fabric.
One of Ben’s defining strengths lies in his ability to lead projects from the initial stages of consensus-building input all the way through to completion. He ensures that every design emerges from a deep understanding of the client’s mission and values while demonstrating a profound care for project stakeholders and the well-being of the community.
In a field where vision, collaboration, and a commitment to community are critical, Ben leads by example by not only shaping remarkable structures but also enriching the lives of those who inhabit them and the communities that surround them.
Who are three of your favorite designers/architects?
David Baker, Handel, Snohetta
Do you have a particular design style?
Modern, progressive and contextual.
What (3) things do you want to be remembered for?
Kindness, empathy, generosity
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Pilot
Rachel Cardenas
Accounting Specialist|San Diego, CA
Rachel Cardenas
Accounting Specialist|San Diego, CA
What is your favorite pastime or hobby?
Listening to music and playing piano.
Which super power would you most like to have?
The power of transportation to avoid traffic.
If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
I would be a broken sage green crayon.
What is your favorite word?
Heyy
Sherri Hritz
Senior Project Leader|San Diego, CA
Sherri Hritz
Senior Project Leader|San Diego, CA
In what moment of time did you decide to become and architect?
As a teenager, I watched Trading Spaces and realized that I could form art into the space around me and make a living doing what I love.
Do you have a particular design style?
I have the space and the end user experience determine my design style. Aesthetically I like a cleaner palette that people can gravitate towards, feel comfortable and enjoy their time being in.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve worked on?
My favorite project was a multi-family housing project that was homes to the developmentally disabled population. I was able to immerse myself the understanding of how colors, space and shape impact the human experience.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I would love to improve on slowing down to enjoy my surroundings more often.
Leo Acevedo
Job Captain|Los Angeles, CA
Leo Acevedo
Job Captain|Los Angeles, CA
In what moment did you decide to become an architect?
Walking through Disney Concert Hall, amazed that not all buildings need to be boring.
Which super power would you most like to have?
Teleportation, for instant travel.
Who are your three favorite designers/architects?
LE Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe, Frank Gehry
Favorite sports team?
Liverpool FC – English football team
Stephanie A. Shenas
Operations Manager|San Diego, CA
Stephanie A. Shenas
Operations Manager|San Diego, CA
What is your favorite pastime or hobby?
Interior Design
What is your most treasured possession?
My home
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Awesome
Which super power would you most like to have?
Teleportation
Sai Zhang
Senior Architect|Los Angeles, CA
Sai Zhang
Senior Architect|Los Angeles, CA
What’s your favorite building and why?
The old town piazzas: human scale, sense of belonging, a container of real life.
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Writer
What (3) things do you want to be remembered for?
Being loving, caring, and fun to be around.
What are your favorite pens to sketch with?
Paper Mate Felt-tip
Sanbir Sidhu, AIA, NCARB
Senior Architect|San Diego, CA
Sanbir Sidhu, AIA, NCARB
Senior Architect|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
Making a difference; seeing the designs that we create have an impact on the user’s day to day experience.
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
The other profession is actually one that I am currently involved in which is teaching higher education. I have always loved the idea of not only practicing architecture but also teaching it as well and late last year I got the opportunity to do just that at my alma mater.
Which super power would you most like to have?
Teleportation, just so I could travel more. Just imagine going to Paris for lunch and drinking a pina colada as the sun sets on a beach in Tahiti after work.
What is your motto?
“Make mistakes faster”, anytime we try something we are going to make mistakes as nothing is perfect the first time, but you can’t let that fear slow you down or stop you. If you make decisions sooner, you can see the issues and address them quicker as well rather than procrastinate.
Libby Creim, NCARB
Architect|Seattle, WA
Libby Creim, NCARB
Architect|Seattle, WA
What inspires you?
I find inspiration in many things every day, but especially when taking a hike and catching views of the ocean.
What (3) things do you want to be remembered for?
Being kind, good cooking, and making a difference
If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
Cornflower
Which super power would you most like to have?
The power of flight!!!
Matthew Dunbar, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Project Architect|San Diego, CA
Matthew Dunbar, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Project Architect|San Diego, CA
What brought you to Carrier Johnson?
The desire to work with the leading local architecture firm, working on some iconic buildings in San Diego.
Do you have a particular design style?
No particular design style, but I am drawn to solutions that are tidy, intuitive, and reasonable.
What is your favorite past time or hobby?
Playing the piano, working in the garden, and driving around in / working on my 1974 MGB.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Being a father.
Matthias Winkler, AIA, ISHC
Director of Hospitality|San Diego, CA
Matthias Winkler, AIA, ISHC
Director of Hospitality|San Diego, CA
Matthias has been an expert in the design and construction of high-end resorts, hotels, clubhouses, villas, and estates for more than two decades. Educated as an architect in Europe and the United States, including being a Fulbright Alumni, he was influenced by diverse cultures and languages from the very start of his career. His expertise in hospitality design was molded in high-end hotel and residential design firms in the Pacific Northwest and on several of the Hawaiian Islands before settling in San Diego. He is a member of AIA Honolulu, ULI San Diego, and the International Society of Hospitality Consultants. Matthias’s designs are inspired by his international work experience and the distinctive character of their location. He is passionate about creating hospitality environments that lift the spirit of the guests, the employees, and the surrounding community. Therefore, he enjoys working with clients who share this passion.
Along with expertise in design and operations, Matthias is a skilled project manager and business development leader for hospitality and senior housing in the US and internationally.
What’s your favorite building and why?
Guggenheim NY, the interior space is simply fantastic
If you could choose who or what to come back as, who or what would you be?
A choreographer
Which super power would you most like to have?
Being able to fly
What was the best concert you ever attended?
Tina Turner
Anais Adamska, AIA
Senior Project Architect|Seattle, WA
Anais Adamska, AIA
Senior Project Architect|Seattle, WA
What brought you to Carrier Johnson?
I’ve been interested in multi-family projects for quite some time, I’m a big believer in the necessity for high density housing.
In what moment of time did you decide to become and architect?
I kept visiting my twin sister at her architecture studio in college and got to see the types of things she was building and designing. I was undecided at the time and finally realized I needed to be an architect as well and applied to the school of architecture.
Do you have a particular design style?
I love understated & simple, but at the same time I love bold colors & irreverent design just as much.
What is your most treasured possession?
1964 Vespa
Peggy Heim, AIA, NCARB, CPHD
Associate|Seattle, WA
Peggy Heim, AIA, NCARB, CPHD
Associate|Seattle, WA
What brought you to Carrier Johnson?
I was drawn to the high-quality civic-scale projects and the collaboration with designers in another city to bring new energy and ideas to Seattle. I am also excited about the prospects of growing the Seattle office into a thriving go-to studio for projects in the Pacific NW region.
What architect do you admire most?
I love the work of Holst architects from Portland, OR. I often seek out their work for multi-family project precedents. I recently attended a lecture by Julie Eizenberg and was very inspired by her firm’s body of work, especially their Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh renovation project.
In what moment of time did you decide to become and architect?
I wanted to be an architect since childhood, but I made the decision to go to architecture school in my last year of high school after visiting the University of Minnesota architecture school and seeing all the student projects in the central courtyard and knowing that was the place for me.
Which superpower would you most like to have?
Seeing into the future would be awesome as a project manager that is constantly trying to plan for uncertainty.
Randy Morton, AIA, NCARB
Design Principal|New York, NY
Randy Morton, AIA, NCARB
Design Principal|New York, NY
Randy is a Design Principal who specializes in large-scale, dynamic urban plans and community development visions. He has over 40 years of experience serving both the public and private sectors, seamlessly integrating architecture, landscape, infrastructure, and the arts to create vibrant, diverse, and economically robust places that bring joy to those who experience them. Believing that collaboration creates richer results, Randy seeks to encourage client participation as well as full team involvement in the design process. He is also internationally recognized as an expert in waterfront, transit-oriented, and entertainment district master plans that focus on human scale and pedestrian-oriented initiatives.
Luca Maffey, International Assoc. AIA
Firmwide Head of Design | Design Principal|Atlanta, GA
Luca Maffey, International Assoc. AIA
Firmwide Head of Design | Design Principal|Atlanta, GA
Luca is CJ+C’s Firmwide Head of Design and boasts a robust portfolio of high-profile architectural projects in the US and abroad, in the hospitality, workplace, mixed-use, master plan and residential sectors. In his 25-year career, he has developed skillsets from several roles within the industry ranging from Design Principal to Business and Marketing Director. Luca has refined his design expertise while at prestigious firms including Portman Architects, TVS Design, Cooper Carry Architects, and Gensler.
Luca’s mission is to shape architectural projects and the firm’s culture. Luca’s multifaceted role encompasses firmwide design leadership, business development and culture cultivation. As the champion of design excellence across the offices he will steer the creative vision, serving both as a mentor and a coach to empower growth. On the business front, Luca will help retain and consolidate existing clients, while acquiring new ones, helping the firm to enter new national and international markets.
What architect do you admire most?
Renzo Piano
In what moment of time did you decide to become and architect?
When I realized that instead of studying law… I was skipping classes to draw churches and streets in Rome
What is your motto?
Dream, Inspire, Collaborate, Mentor, Design, Enjoy Life!
What was the best concert you ever attended?
Sting at Circus Maximus
Nash Reyes, Assoc. AIA
Director of Technology|Los Angeles, CA
Nash Reyes, Assoc. AIA
Director of Technology|Los Angeles, CA
With an impressive 25-year career in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction, (AEC) sector, Nash Reyes, Assoc. AIA brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of driving change through cutting-edge digital solutions. His journey includes pivotal roles at prestigious firms including Design Technology Director at Gensler, Technology Director at HMC, and Regional BIM Leader at HDR where he honed his technology expertise and found a passion for delivering tangible outcomes through innovation.
Nash‘s strategic vision for CJ+C encompasses fostering seamless collaboration between the firm’s technology and design teams, elevating technical skills, staying abreast of emerging trends, and aligning technology solutions with client needs. His primary goal is to position CJ+C as a pioneering industry leader by inspiring and supporting the exploration and adoption of new technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and generative design. Nash prioritizes enhancing the overall client experience by meticulously integrating collaborative platforms that offer an immersive design journey, delivering real-time updates on project progress.
What brought you to Carrier Johnson?
The opportunity to make a lasting change for the firm in Business Technology.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Digital transformation for AEC firms
What’s the coolest thing you’ve worked on?
Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi
What was the best concert you ever attended?
Shakira El Dorado tour
Erick Hipolito
Designer|San Diego, CA
Erick Hipolito
Designer|San Diego, CA
Who are three of your favorite designers/architects?
Mies Van der Rohe, Luis Barragan, Alberto Campo Baeza
What is your most treasured possession?
My family.
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Photographer, VFX Artist, Musician
Angie Jiménez
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
Angie Jiménez
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
The beauty of the world.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“Really?!” “Please” and “Thank you”
What is your most treasured possession?
My family, no doubt.
Craig Atkinson, AIA, NOMA, DBIA, LEED AP
Director of Higher Education|Los Angeles, CA
Craig Atkinson, AIA, NOMA, DBIA, LEED AP
Director of Higher Education|Los Angeles, CA
Craig Atkinson’s life is steeped in education. The son of a former LAUSD district supervisor, Atkinson’s design leadership, extensive community outreach, and focus on client relationships have resulted in more than 50 K-12 bond-funded modernization projects. As a leader in Southern California’s Learning+ Studio, Craig successfully navigates the shared governance process of California school funding to achieve design outcomes that enhance learning.
As CJ+C’s Director of Higher Education, Craig leads our firm’s charge in progressing the student experience across campuses for private and public institutions and offers clients more than 30 years of experience in the planning, design and construction of educational projects. These range from athletic facilities to student centers to technology complexes. Craig is also active in the design industry as the President of the Southern California chapter of NOMA (the National Organization of Minority Architects) and serves on CJ+C’s EDI Committee.
What architect do you most admire?
Paul Williams – Primarily for the greatness of his work considering the obstacles he faced.
What inspires you?
Talented young people truly inspire me. I like their commitment and energy
In what moment did you decide to become an architect?
My father worked for DMJM and I was fascinated by the work he did (even though he wasn’t an Architect). So I would say that I knew probably as early as Elementary School.
Jeff Haack
Principal|San Diego, CA
Managing Director, Strategy & Brand
Jeff Haack
Principal|San Diego, CA
Managing Director, Strategy & Brand
Jeff is CJ+C’s Principal in charge of Marketing, Branding, and Environmental Graphics. He is a multidisciplinary creative leader with over 25 years of experience serving a wide range of brands and projects in Brand Strategy, Identity Development, and Environmental Graphic Design. His work seeks to combine form and function, pushing the boundaries of traditional design creative thinking; he emphasizes the importance of integrating technology, sustainability, and human-centered design principles that create joy and satisfaction for the end users. He’s developed brand positioning and visual storytelling strategies for global brands including Columbia Sportswear, The University of California, The International Olympic Committee (IOC), Cushman & Wakefield, Microsoft, the Boeing Company, Herman Miller, and Sony.
Dani Chang
Communications Designer|San Diego, CA
Dani Chang
Communications Designer|San Diego, CA
What is your favorite pastime or hobby?
I grew up practicing Taekwondo, a Korean martial arts, with my sister and twin brother. We went to classes, performed on the demonstration team, competed together, and are now a family of fourth degree black belts! I enjoy practicing forms or poomsaes the most because to sharpen and perfect the technique of my kicks and punches.
What is your most treasured possession?
My most treasured possession is my design journal. I preserve and document internal thoughts and external conversations onto my journal, and this constant notion of handwriting a stream of consciousness allows me to organize my ideas. I consider myself both a creative and logical thinker who needs to analyze all potential approaches while visualizing them neatly on a canvas.
Do you have a particular design style?
I enjoy multiple design styles, and learn towards modern, elegant, and modular forms that give a subtle yet bold impression.
Antonio Navarro Jr
Communications Designer|San Diego, CA
Antonio Navarro Jr
Communications Designer|San Diego, CA
Do you have a particular design style?
If I had to use words to describe my work, I would say: Imaginative, Intentional, Strategic, Passionate, Unorthodox, Disruptive, Contemporary, Colorful, and Abstract.
What is your favorite pastime or hobby?
Playing instruments, writing songs, producing music, swimming in the ocean, hunting for vintage photography lenses, playing table tennis.
What is your motto?
Todo Tranquilo.
Lara Normand, LEED AP
Senior Landscape Architect|Seattle, WA
Lara Normand, LEED AP
Senior Landscape Architect|Seattle, WA
Lara Normand is a seasoned landscape architect with over 28 years of experience, specializing in mixed-use developments, senior living spaces, and private residences. She earned her Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Washington’s College of the Built Environment, following a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a minor in Environmental Studies from Scripps College. Lara’s design philosophy emphasizes the subtle beauty and well-being her work brings to individuals, often creating spaces that blend seamlessly into their environments. With a keen eye for planting design, she likens her craft to painting—infusing landscapes with colors and textures that evolve with the seasons.
Currently managing ongoing projects at CJ+C after the merger with Communita Atelier, Lara is dedicated to expanding the firm’s landscape architecture portfolio. Her expertise in low impact development, bolstered by a certification from the University of Washington, complements her technical skills in AutoCAD and InDesign. Lara’s commitment to her craft has been recognized with prestigious awards, including an Honor Award from the Seattle AIA for the Rabour Village Community Resource Center in Kenya and another from the City of Portland for the East Portland Courtyard Housing Competition. Beyond her professional endeavors, she served on the Seattle Bicycle Advisory Board, reflecting her passion for sustainable urban design.
Who are three of your favorite designers/architects?
Gilles, Maya Lin, Piet Oudolf
What’s the coolest thing you’ve worked on?
A courtyard plan for a vocational school in Kenya, volunteering fir Architects Without Boarders (unbuilt)
What inspires you?
Being in a natural landscape where the vistas are expansive, feeling the enormity of the world – also, finding myself in a new city with a bike and a camera, and taking in all the new and unfamiliar things
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager|San Diego, CA
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
The Energy + Creativity of Others
Do you have a particular design style?
Industrial Glam
Which superpower would you most like to have?
Animal Telepathy
Kyle Stevens
Associate|San Diego, CA
Design Manager & Development Strategist
Kyle Stevens
Associate|San Diego, CA
Design Manager & Development Strategist
What is your favorite word?
cognate
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
archaeologist
Where would you like to live?
New York City
Claudia Escala, LEED AP
President|San Diego, CA
Architect
Claudia Escala, LEED AP
President|San Diego, CA
Architect
Claudia Escala, architect and LEED AP, is the co-president of Carrier Johnson + CULTURE, a global architecture firm that has provided professional design services to the local San Diego community since 1977.
A native of Perú, Claudia completed her undergraduate work in architecture at Universidad Ricardo Palma in Lima, later earning a Master of Architecture degree at the University of California, San Diego. With 23 years of experience, Claudia is a registered architect in California and Washington, and maintains a clear focus on improving the lives and communities of residents throughout the regions she touches.
As a resident of San Diego’s East Village neighborhood, Claudia’s prolific career has had a significant influence on the evolution of the downtown San Diego skyline. In 2005, she moved from the suburbs to the East Village with her husband and two children to become involved in the emerging multifamily housing boom. Over the past 19 years, Claudia has become a zealous advocate for families like hers who want to live and raise children in the city.
Claudia remains an active member of the local community, currently serving as Chair of the San Diego Regional Chamber’s Transportation and Land Development Committee.
What is your least favorite word?
Deadline
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
Maria Reiche, Mathematician & archaeologist who researched the Nazca Lines in Peru.
What is your favourite journey?
Anywhere camping.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Learning to hang glide while being afraid of heights.
If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
An opera singer
Other affiliations:
DCPC Downtown Community Planning Council
Dawn Zimmer
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Quality Assurance & Specs
Dawn Zimmer
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Quality Assurance & Specs
What is your favorite word?
Chocolate
What is your favourite journey?
Putting together a 1000+ piece jigsaw puzzle
When and where were you happiest?
Senior year of college
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Making Sr. National Swimming Time Standards
What is your motto?
Be true to yourself
Duane Hagewood
Principal|San Diego, CA
Duane Hagewood
Principal|San Diego, CA
Throughout his 30-year career, Duane has been deeply immersed in every facet of city building and redevelopment. With his expertise spanning various domains, he has played pivotal roles as both a project manager and project architect for numerous architectural and planning endeavors in Southern California. Duane’s unwavering passion for designing solutions that empower cities and celebrate their unique identities has been a driving force behind his project leadership style, characterized by a thoughtful and proactive approach while navigating the logistical complexities of planning and design. His rich and diverse portfolio is a testament to his exceptional skills in navigating urban development
As a seasoned leader, Duane has steered project teams to effectively orchestrate design, planning, scheduling, and consultant coordination for a wide array of urban design projects, commercial ventures, multi-family residential complexes, student and affordable housing, and mixed-use developments. Among his skills, Duane exhibits a remarkable flair for mixed-use and residential projects, where he consistently demonstrates an unparalleled ability to secure project goals with remarkable efficiency.
What is your least favorite word?
Tenacious
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Woodworker
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
Have more patience
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Building a family
Where would you like to live?
Mesa Verde, N.M.
Gordon Carrier, FAIA, NCARB
Chairman|San Diego, CA
CEO
Gordon Carrier, FAIA, NCARB
Chairman|San Diego, CA
CEO
Gordon Carrier is Chairman and CEO of Carrier Johnson + Culture and guided the firm with his partner, Michael Johnson, for nearly years before handing the reigns to our current presidents, Ray and Claudia.
As Design Principal, Gordon has been responsible for the design of 36 collegiate and higher education facilities, ranging in cost from $20 – $120 million, including the new home of Pitzer’s Robert Redford Conservancy for Southern California Sustainability. In his role as Design Principal, Mr. Carrier has inspired the creative concepts for eleven “iconic” buildings for eight different Southern California university campuses – Point Loma Nazarene University, University of San Diego, CSU Dominguez Hills, UC Irvine, Cal Poly Pomona, CSU San Marcos, San Diego State and San Jose State.
Gordon holds a Bachelor of Science and Masters Degree in Architecture from the University of Michigan. His ancillary education includes mentor training through the San Diego Mediation Center and nomination to the National Panel of Arbitrators for the American Arbitration Association. Mr. Carrier is a member of the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects and is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. Past affiliations include the California State Board of Architectural Examiners, San Diego Board of Zoning Appeals, Centre City Development Corporation/Civic San Diego and the Mayoral Design Advisory Council.
As an active member of the San Diego business and civic community, Mr. Carrier has been involved with the Young Presidents’ Organization, World Presidents’ Organization, LEAD San Diego, San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee, CCDC Board of Directors, Junior Achievement Board of Directors, City of San Diego Board of Zoning Appeals, San Diego AIA Board of Directors, NAAB Architecture School Accreditation Team and the State of California Architects Licensing Board.
What is your favorite word?
Expression
What is your least favorite word?
Weed
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Professional Musician
Which talent would you most like to have?
Scratch Golfer
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
Patience
Other affiliations:
San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation, California Architect’s Board Professional Qualifications Committee, World President’s Organization
Jackie Angel
Principal|San Diego, CA
COO
Jackie Angel
Principal|San Diego, CA
COO
Jackie joined Carrier Johnson + Culture in 2005 as the firm’s Controller and has dedicated the past 18 years to helping the firm achieve maximum profitability. Now as Principal and Director of Operations, she is responsible for targeting areas in which the firm can maximize revenue margins, ensure employee retention, and streamline productivity. She is a nimble multi-tasker, both diligent and disciplined. As a direct result of Jackie’s efforts, business savvy, and indomitable spirit, Carrier Johnson is one of the highest-performing architectural firms in Southern California.
Jackie earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Phoenix in 1992 and spent her early career providing accounting services for a global architectural firm. As a native of California, Jackie enjoys living along the coast with her boyfriend in Carlsbad and spending time with her son and grandchildren in Texas.
What is your greatest extravagance?
My Shoes
What is your favourite journey?
The one I am on daily
Who are your heroes in real life?
My son Matt
What (3) things do you want to be remembered for?
That I am a faithful/hardworker/loving
What is your motto?
What’s Plan B
John Martinez
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Senior Designer
John Martinez
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Senior Designer
What is your favorite word?
Mamihlapinatapai. It is a real word and we have all experienced it at least once!
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
I always wanted to be a Chef. Architects and Chefs both combine ingredients to hopefully create something desirable.
Where would you like to live?
On a sailboat. Adventurous, slightly romantic, and the best way to escape a zombie apocalypse.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My family.
What is your motto?
“Architecture is pretty pictures and parking garages.”
Vicki Piazza, LEED AP BD+C
Associate Principal|Los Angeles, CA
Architect
Frank Landry, AIA, LEED AP, CASp
Associate Principal|San Diego, CA
Technical Director
Frank Landry, AIA, LEED AP, CASp
Associate Principal|San Diego, CA
Technical Director
What is your favorite journey?
Spain 2004
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Rockstar
What is your most treasured possession?
Family
Where would you like to live?
San Diego
What is your motto?
There’s always tomorrow
Dina González, AIA, NCARB
Associate|San Diego, CA
Dina González, AIA, NCARB
Associate|San Diego, CA
What is your favorite word?
serendipity
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Why?
When and where were you happiest?
Still am, whenever I’m dancing
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
007
What is your motto?
If it makes you happy, go for it.
Alex Kacur
Associate Principal|San Diego, CA
Senior Project Manager
Alex Kacur
Associate Principal|San Diego, CA
Senior Project Manager
What is your favorite journey?
3 months spent in Southern Turkey, along the Mediterranean, visiting deserted Greek, and Roman, ruins that were off the tourist maps.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Tweak
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
To have been able to support my wife while she stays at home to raise the kids.
If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
Myself, but with more hair.
Where would you like to live?
San Diego and Paris
Ray Varela, NCARB
President|San Diego, CA
Design Principal
Ray Varela, NCARB
President|San Diego, CA
Design Principal
Ray Varela is Co-President and Design Principal of Carrier Johnson + Culture.
Ray’s extensive professional journey spans 35 years as a Registered Architect in California. His ascent to his current role follows a successful tenure as lead design architect, featuring a rich portfolio encompassing various project types such as corporate, higher education, urban mixed-use, multifamily luxury residential, and scientific research facilities.
Beyond his architectural endeavors, Ray actively engages with the local community and currently assumes roles on the executive committees of the Downtown Partnership and The San Diego EDC.
Ray earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree in Environmental Design from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, in 1989. Following this, he pursued further architectural studies in Florence, Italy, before obtaining a Master’s Degree in Architectural Design from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1996.
What is your least favorite word?
Can’t
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Cool!
Which talent would you most like to have?
Writer
What 3 things do you want to be remembered for?
Great father and husband, loves God.
What is your motto?
Don’t give up!
Manuela Bravo-Smith
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Senior Interior Designer
Manuela Bravo-Smith
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Senior Interior Designer
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Fashion and Industrial Design
Which talent would you most like to have?
To sing or play an instrument
If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
Classic Ballet Dancer
Who are your three favorite designers/architects?
Frank Lloyd Wright, Marc Jacobs, Florence Knoll
Who are your heroes in real life?
My parents
John Beck, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Architect
John Beck, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Architect
What is your favorite word?
Yes!
What is your least favorite word?
No, no, no….
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
Grandparents
Which living person do you most admire?
Kids
What is your greatest extravagance?
Travel
Dennis Ginn
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Project Leader
Dennis Ginn
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Project Leader
What is your favorite word?
Simple
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Professional Fishing or Race Car Driving
If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
A Bird
Paige George, LEED AP
Associate|San Diego, CA
Architect
Paige George, LEED AP
Associate|San Diego, CA
Architect
What is your least favorite word?
Ama-azing
What is your greatest extravagance?
Sleep
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Ballet; set design
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Undo
Which talent would you most like to have?
Musical: singing or playing an instrument
Min Sung
Senior Interior Designer|Los Angeles, CA
Min Sung
Senior Interior Designer|Los Angeles, CA
Who are three of your favorite designers/architects?
Santiago Calatrava, Rem Koolhaas, Kengo Kuma
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Jet pilot
Anything else you’d like to share?
I was born in Busan, South Korea
Priscilla Corcoran
Contracts Specialist|Los Angeles, CA
Priscilla Corcoran
Contracts Specialist|Los Angeles, CA
What is your greatest extravagance?
Memorable trips with my husband and kids to Aulani Resort in Hawaii
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
All of my family on my mother’s side, were born in Costa Rica. I was the first woman in my family to leave our birth country to study at a University and earn a Bachelors and Master Degree.
What is your most treasured possession?
My husband and children; Family
What (3) things do you want to be remembered for?
Passionate, Perseverance, Kindness
What is your motto?
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me
Abe Gutierrez
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Senior Designer
Abe Gutierrez
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Senior Designer
What is your favorite word?
Thoroughly
What is your greatest extravagance?
Precision measuring tools
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Art Director / Production Design
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
Korben Dallas
What is your motto?
To see the world, things dangerous to come, to see behind walls, to draw closer, to find each other and tofeel. That is the purpose of life.
Heather Foster
Controller|San Diego, CA
Heather Foster
Controller|San Diego, CA
WHAT IS THE COOLEST THING YOU’VE WORKED ON?
Movie Pirates
WHAT PROFESSION OTHER THAN YOURS WOULD YOU LIKE TO ATTEMPT?
Manage a dog shelter
WHICH WORDS OR PHRASE DO YOU MOST OVERUSE?
No-Do
WHAT WAS THE BEST CONCERT YOU EVER ATTENDED?
Darius Rucker
WHAT IS YOUR MOST TREASURED POSSESSION?
My Dog
Sean Baba
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
Sean Baba
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
Which architect do you most admire?
Tadao Ando
What is your motto?
Never be complacent, always strive to achieve something greater
Favorite sports team?
San Diego Padres
What brought you to Carrier Johnson?
Incredible respect for the quality of work and extremely talented employees
Hoda Jafarzadeh, LEED AP BD+C, CSI CDT
Project Architect|Seattle, WA
Hoda Jafarzadeh, LEED AP BD+C, CSI CDT
Project Architect|Seattle, WA
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Art and movies
WHAT MUSICAL INSTRUMENT DO YOU PLAY?
Daf – a Persian instrument
WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT?
Immigrating along to an unknown world
DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR DESIGN STYLE?
Modern but in respect its context
IN WHAT MOMENT OF TIME DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME AN ARCHITECT?
When I was a kid, my father is an architect
Aaron Zamarron
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
Aaron Zamarron
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
What brought you to Carrier Johnson + Culture?
I was luck enough to have the opportunity to intern at Carrier Johnson back in 2016 and 2017 and when I hear there was an open position, I was ecstatic to apply
What’s the coolest thing you’ve worked on?
PLNU Prescott Prayer Chapel. I’m proud to have the opportunity to build the initial 3D modeling and create shop drawings for details and features of the chapel, such as the hanging lattice structure
What is you motto?
Never stop learning
Favorite sports team?
Pittsburgh Steelers and US National Soccer
Jay Schlesinger
Designer|San Diego, CA
Jay Schlesinger
Designer|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
Cinema and storytelling. I like to think I can tell a story with architecture
Do you have a particular design style?
My design style starts with an idea, establishing the simplest form of that idea and then using branches of that idea to add complexity to the spaces of that form.
Favorite sports team?
Cleveland Browns
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
To date – graduating with my masters degree with the highest GPA of my class, while I worked part-time with a significant role in a firm the whole time
If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
Red
McKenna Leventhal
Designer|San Diego, CA
McKenna Leventhal
Designer|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
My travels to amazing countries like Czech Republic, France, Spain and my mom
What is your motto?
Don’t stop until you are proud
What’s your favorite hobby?
I love running – I find it very calming after a stressful day. One of my favorite spots to run is Mission Bay Loop at sunset
Which words or phrases do you most over use?
“That’s Interesting”
Do you have a particular design style?
A mix of organic modern and a splash of mid-century
Marco Lopez
Designer|San Diego, CA
Marco Lopez
Designer|San Diego, CA
What was your favorite subject in school?
History
What inspires you?
Feeling productive
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
F1 pilot
What is your most treasured possession?
My mom and dad
What is your motto?
Never say never!
Jessi Galicia
Accounting Specialist|San Diego, CA
Jessi Galicia
Accounting Specialist|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
Being a positive role model for my two nieces
What alternate profession would you like to attempt?
Pastry chef or chocolatier
What super power would you like to have?
The ability to heal people — whether it be physically or mentally
What is your motto?
The present moment is all you ever have
Fun Fact
During the hiring process, I learned that Carrier Johnson + Culture was the architect and interior designer for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library — which is where I spent countless hours studying throughout college.
Tingting Xu, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Project Architect|Los Angeles, CA
Tingting Xu, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Project Architect|Los Angeles, CA
What brought you to Carrier Johnson + Culture?
The variety of project types in the company’s portfolio… a lot of which I wish I could have worked on.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I never thought I could make cheese cake and grow vegetables in my backyard. Thanks to the COVID lockdown, I’ve accomplished both.
What is your motto?
Time won’t turn back so make every minute count.
William Bilyeu
Designer|Seattle, WA
William Bilyeu
Designer|Seattle, WA
Which super power would you most like to have?
Not having to sleep.
What’s your favorite building and why?
Markthal in Rotterdam, Netherlands. It’s an enclosed open-air market surrounded by a sculptural arch of apartments. I really enjoy the blending of public and private spaces and how the form of the building represents the joining of the two.
If you could choose who or what to come back as, who or what would you be?
A person if I could retain all the knowledge from my past life, otherwise probably a cat.
Alex Gutierrez
Associate Principal|San Diego, CA
Design Director
Alex Gutierrez
Associate Principal|San Diego, CA
Design Director
A designer with more than 15 years of architecture experience, Alex has led a variety of award-winning projects in both types and scale. He has developed particular expertise in the design and execution of mixed-use developments, residential, office, institutional buildings, and commercial projects across the west coast of the United States. Alex holds an undergraduate degree from the Instituto Tecnológio y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey School of Architecture; and studied his master’s at NewSchool of Architecture and Design. He is a registered Architect in Mexico.
As Director of Design, Alex is involved in all the firm’s projects to ensure that our teams achieve design excellence in all the phases of work. Alex has a passion for design and conceptual thinking. Through the iterative design process, he believes that every building has a story inspired by thoughtful research, grounded in site, and driven by program and function. Alex seeks to mentor and inspire innovative and thought-provoking work within our offices. Clients enjoy working with Alex because of his creative design approach and hands-on emphasis on collaboration.
What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
Photographer, graphic designer, score composer / musician
What is your most treasured possession?
Photos & music collection
Where would you like to live?
Paris / New York City / Tijuana
Who are your three favorite designers/architects?
Marcio Kogan, Rem Koolhaas, Luis Barragan
Who is your favourite hero of fiction?
Han Solo
Charles Worthington
Designer|San Diego, CA
Charles Worthington
Designer|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
Travel, History, Nature
What’s your favorite building and why?
US Grant Hotel – Historic Building beautifully preserved
Which super power would you most like to have?
Time Travel