Aaron Frease, AIA, NCARB
Associate | Project Architect|Seattle, WA
Project Manager
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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Aaron Frease, AIA, NCARB
Associate | Project Architect|Seattle, WA
Project Manager
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.
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
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.
Adrienne Westlund
Senior Project Architect|San Diego, CA
Adrienne Westlund
Senior Project Architect|San Diego, CA
With 20 years of experience, Adrienne is a Senior Project Architect specializing in a wide range of sectors, including multifamily high-rise, healthcare, oil & gas, recreation, ceremonial, library, office, and hospitality projects. She has extensive experience with design-build projects, guided by her collaborative philosophy—“We are all professionals striving to do our best to create outstanding projects.” Adrienne leads design and execution, ensuring both creative and technical integrity, while managing teams, clients, timelines, and budgets to deliver successful projects and strengthen client relationships. She is proficient in Revit and AutoCAD, utilizing these tools to efficiently bring designs to life.
In what moment did you decide to become an architect?
When I was a child I would pour over home plan books and had hours of fun creating my own floor plans.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve worked on?
A ceremonial teepee for an aboriginal women’s shelter
Do you have a favorite design style?
Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern
What’s your motto?
Deserve your dreams
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
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
Alexia Garcia
Associate|San Diego, CA
Interior Designer
Alexia Garcia
Associate|San Diego, CA
Interior Designer
Alexia is an experienced designer with 7 years of expertise in multifamily, higher education, Pre-K, and healthcare projects. She holds both a Master of Architecture from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona and a Bachelor of Architecture from Universidad Autónoma de Baja California. With a design philosophy focused on creating functional, aesthetic, and user-centered spaces, Alexia takes a collaborative approach to align her work with client needs. She provides design support on a variety of tasks, including client communication, design work, research, and the preparation of presentations and construction documents. Her software proficiency includes Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp. Alexia thrives on meeting new people and building relationships while ensuring that project schedules, contracts, and deliverables are meticulously managed.
What brought you to CJ+C?
I was always drawn to CJ+C for its innovative, collaborative approach to design and commitment to culturally relevant, sustainable spaces.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by the diversity of cultures and the unique perspectives they offer on the world.
Which superpower would you most like to have?
If I could have any superpower, I’d choose time traveling—to explore different architectural eras firsthand and see how design has evolved through history.
What (3) things do you want to be remembered for?
I’d like to be remembered for my creativity, my passion for design, and the positive impact I’ve made on others through my work and relationships.
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
Andrew Sadera
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
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.
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
Ben Ruswick
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Design Director
Ben Ruswick
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Design Director
In what moment of time did you decide to become and architect?
Freshman year of college. Resisting my mom’s urging that I would be a good architect because I “could draw and was good at math” became too tiring.
Who are three of your favorite designers/architects?
Renzo Piano, Lebbeus Woods, Louis Kahn (I like an arch…)
What’s your favorite building and why?
Hagia Sophia – simultaneously inspiring and completely uncanny.
What is your favorite word?
Anachronistic. It feels self-referential.
Favorite Sports Team?
Generally: Michigan Football; specifically: Team 144 (go blue).
Brena Daly, CPHC
Associate|Seattle, WA
Job Captain
Brena Daly, CPHC
Associate|Seattle, WA
Job Captain
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.
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
Craig Atkinson, AIA, NOMA, DBIA, LEED AP
Managing Director, Los Angeles|Los Angeles, CA
Director of Higher Education
Craig Atkinson, AIA, NOMA, DBIA, LEED AP
Managing Director, Los Angeles|Los Angeles, CA
Director of Higher Education
Craig Atkinson’s life is steeped in education. The son of former LAUSD local district 3 superintendent. Atkinson’s design leadership, deep engagement with diverse educational communities, and commitment to lasting client relationships have supported transformative projects across higher education, community college, and K-12 environments. With experience spanning master planning, capital bond programs, and complex modernization efforts, Craig adeptly navigates shared governance and stakeholder processes to deliver design solutions that strengthen student success and elevate campus experience.
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 35 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 an active member Design Build Institute of America (DBIA). As West Region Vice President of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and the chair member of CJ+C’s Culture & Belonging Committee, Craig also champions diversity and belonging in the AEC profession, advancing pathways for future designers and a more equitable built environment.
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.
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.
David Huchteman, AIA
Chief Executive Officer|Los Angeles, CA
David Huchteman, AIA
Chief Executive Officer|Los Angeles, CA
David Huchteman is CEO of Carrier Johnson + Culture. He leads the firm’s strategic direction, performance, and culture, evolving the practice to meet the needs of today’s communities and project delivery while enabling teams to solve challenging problems and deliver meaningful work.
With more than 23 years of experience, David has delivered complex work across mixed-use, civic, education, science and technology, and adaptive reuse projects throughout California and the western United States. Previously serving as Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director of CJ+C’s Los Angeles office, he played a key role in expanding the firm’s presence and strengthening client relationships across Southern California. David is also recognized for his expertise in design-build, fast-track, and alternative project delivery methods, enabling high-quality outcomes under accelerated schedules and complex conditions.
David is a Registered Architect licensed in California, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Utah, and New York. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Pratt Institute and completed Executive Education in Integrated Project Management at Harvard GSD.
Deeply committed to mentorship and leadership development, David previously served as Chair of the Pratt Institute Alumni Los Angeles Network volunteer board and currently serves as a member of the Pratt Institute Alumni Advisory Board. Through his leadership, he remains focused on developing future design leaders and advancing architecture that positively shapes communities and cities.
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
Dina González, AIA, NCARB
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Architect
Dina González, AIA, NCARB
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Architect
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.
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.
Eric Martina
Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Designer
Eric Martina
Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Designer
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
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
Felicia Ridgeway
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
Felicia Ridgeway
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
Being out in nature – it really puts life into perspective
What is your favorite pastime or hobby?
Sewing – I occasionally sew clothing for smaller dogs
Favorite Sports Team?
Have to support my hometown – so Buffalo Bills!
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
Gordon Carrier, FAIA, NCARB
Executive Chairman|San Diego, CA
Gordon Carrier, FAIA, NCARB
Executive Chairman|San Diego, CA
As co-founder and Executive Chairman of Carrier Johnson + Culture, Gordon Carrier has spent more than four decades shaping the firm’s design culture and practice alongside his partner, Michael Johnson. His leadership has been central to defining CJ+C’s design practice defined by curiosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the people and places we serve. Gordon has nurtured generations of designers and helped establish the studio culture that defines the firm today.
As Design Principal, Gordon has led the design of 36 collegiate and higher education facilities, including the new home of Pitzer College’s Robert Redford Conservancy for Southern California Sustainability. He has inspired the creative concepts for eleven landmark buildings on eight 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—helping these institutions translate mission and identity into built form.
Gordon holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of 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. He is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects and is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. His past professional and civic roles include service on the California State Board of Architectural Examiners, the San Diego Board of Zoning Appeals, Centre City Development Corporation/Civic San Diego, and the Mayoral Design Advisory Council.
An active member of the San Diego business and civic community, Gordon has been involved with the World Presidents’ Organization, LEAD San Diego, the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee, the CCDC Board of Directors, Junior Achievement Board of Directors, the San Diego AIA Board of Directors, the NAAB Architecture School Accreditation Team, and the State of California Architects Licensing Board.
Heather Foster
Associate|San Diego, CA
Controller
Heather Foster
Associate|San Diego, CA
Controller
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
Hoda Jafarzadeh, LEED AP BD+C, CSI CDT
Associate|Seattle, WA
Architect
Hoda Jafarzadeh, LEED AP BD+C, CSI CDT
Associate|Seattle, WA
Architect
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 did you decide to become an architect?
When I was a kid, my father is an architect
Jackie Angel
Chief Operating Officer|San Diego, CA
Jackie Angel
Chief Operating Officer|San Diego, CA
Jackie Angel is Chief Operating Officer and a Principal at Carrier Johnson + Culture, where she provides the operational leadership, financial stewardship, and organizational clarity that support the firm’s creative ambition and long-term success. With more than two decades at CJ+C, Jackie brings deep institutional knowledge and a one-firm mindset, ensuring that systems, processes, and teams are aligned to enable high-performing, people-centered design across all offices.
Since joining the firm in 2005, Jackie has played a central role in guiding CJ+C’s operational evolution, supporting growth, strengthening financial performance, and fostering a culture that values accountability, collaboration, and resilience. Her leadership helps translate vision into consistent execution, allowing design teams to focus on delivering meaningful work for clients and communities.
Jackie earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Phoenix and began her career providing accounting and operational support for a global architecture firm. A California native, she lives in Carlsbad and enjoys time with her family.
Jamie Rapp
Senior Marketing Coordinator|San Diego, CA
Jamie Rapp
Senior Marketing Coordinator|San Diego, CA
What’s your favorite pastime or hobby?
Weightlifting! I compete in Olympic weightlifting so I spend many many hours in the gym.
If you could choose who or what to come back as, who or what would you be?
I’d be a dog owned by a wealthy family in San Diego.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I’m originally from DC and I love meeting fellow east coasters out here! I also have a cat named Knox that is a little mean but has been with me for 8 years. I dress her in ties and I’m always happy to show you a photo.
Jay Schlesinger
Associate|San Diego, CA
Designer
Jay Schlesinger
Associate|San Diego, CA
Designer
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
Jenna LaRocco
Office Administrator|San Diego, CA
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
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.”
Jordan LaRocco
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
Jordan LaRocco
Job Captain|San Diego, CA
What inspires you?
The small details of a project, nature, music, and progress.
Do you have a particular design style?
Not a particular style, but I love everything midcentury and anything historical.
What is your favorite pastime or hobby?
Some of my favorite hobbies are going to the beach, bikes rides, crossfit, golfing, and drawing.
Favorite Sports Team?
GO PADRES!
Junie Carlos
Intern|Los Angeles, CA
Kevin Bussett
Senior Project Architect|San Diego, CA
Kristen Chidester
Associate|San Diego, CA
Director of Marketing
Kyle Stevens
Design Manager|San Diego, CA
Development Strategist
Kyle Stevens
Design Manager|San Diego, CA
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
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
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
Lesmi Villaman
Designer|San Diego, CA
Lesmi Villaman
Designer|San Diego, CA
Libby Creim, NCARB
Associate|Seattle, WA
Architect | Project Manager
Libby Creim, NCARB
Associate|Seattle, WA
Architect | Project Manager
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!!!
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
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!
Marin Gertler, AIA
Chief Design Officer|San Diego, CA
Marin Gertler, AIA
Chief Design Officer|San Diego, CA
With over two decades of experience leading significant projects in architecture, real estate development, and urban placemaking, Marin Gertler serves as Chief Design Officer at Carrier Johnson + Culture. He has delivered transformative mixed-use developments and guides the firm’s design vision, creative strategy, and technical excellence across its San Diego, Los Angeles, and Seattle studios—elevating standards and fostering collaborative teams that deliver innovative, high-performing solutions.
Marin’s commitment to uniting contextual insight with rigorous technical expertise, a deep understanding of client business goals, and end-user human experience positions CJ+C as an agile, trusted leader in design that inspires communities and supports long-term client success.
Marin is a Registered Architect licensed in California and a LEED Accredited Professional. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD).
An engaged industry leader, Marin has served on the Executive Board of the Downtown San Diego Partnership and held leadership roles with the Urban Land Institute (ULI). He has also taught as an adjunct professor at the New School of Architecture + Design and lectured in graduate real estate development programs at the University of San Diego (USD) and UC San Diego (UCSD).
Passionate about mentorship and the next generation of design leaders, Marin remains focused on advancing design and technical excellence that shapes meaningful places, strengthens communities, and delivers exceptional long-term value for clients.
Matthew Dunbar, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Senior Project Architect
Matthew Dunbar, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Senior Project Architect
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
Associate|San Diego, CA
Director of Hospitality
Matthias Winkler, AIA, ISHC
Associate|San Diego, CA
Director of Hospitality
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
Michelle Lewandowski
Project Architect|Seattle, WA
Mills Martin
Senior Associate |San Diego, CA
Senior Project Architect
Mills Martin
Senior Associate |San Diego, CA
Senior Project Architect
Mills is a Senior Project Architect with over two decades of experience delivering mixed-use, multifamily, commercial office, hospitality, and higher education projects from entitlement through construction administration. His work spans market-rate, affordable, and supportive housing, complex commercial developments, and large-scale institutional facilities across California and the Southwest. Mills brings deep technical expertise in building systems, construction typologies, and custom detailing, supported by a strong background in hands-on construction and fabrication. He is known for leading multidisciplinary teams, coordinating closely with clients and consultants, and advancing design intent through rigorous documentation and execution.
Nash Reyes, Assoc. AIA
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Director of Technology
Nash Reyes, Assoc. AIA
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Director of Technology
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
Nikshith Reddy, Assoc. AIA
Designer|Los Angeles, CA
Nikshith Reddy, Assoc. AIA
Designer|Los Angeles, CA
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
Paige George, LEED AP
Senior Associate|San Diego, CA
Architect
Paige George, LEED AP
Senior 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
Peggy Heim, AIA, NCARB, CPHD
Associate Principal|Seattle, WA
Senior Project Manager | Architect
Peggy Heim, AIA, NCARB, CPHD
Associate Principal|Seattle, WA
Senior Project Manager | Architect
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.
Priscilla Corcoran
Associate|San Diego, CA
Contracts Specialist
Priscilla Corcoran
Associate|San Diego, CA
Contracts Specialist
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
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
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!
Sai Zhang
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Senior Project Architect
Sai Zhang
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Senior Project Architect
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
Stephanie A. Shenas
Associate|San Diego, CA
Operations Manager
Stephanie A. Shenas
Associate|San Diego, CA
Operations Manager
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
Steven Kiss-Fierros, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, DBIA
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Director of Civic
Steven Kiss-Fierros, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, DBIA
Senior Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Director of Civic
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
Takara Tada
Senior Architect|San Diego, CA
Takara Tada
Senior Architect|San Diego, CA
Takara has over 14 years of experience as a designer, project architect, and project manager and a diverse background in project types. She is a licensed in California and her breadth of work spans from San Diego to San Francisco & additionally New York. Her expertise is in mixed-use/multifamily housing.
Tingting Xu, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Project Architect
Tingting Xu, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Associate|Los Angeles, CA
Project Architect
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.