At LS3P, optimization isn’t just a buzzword — it’s our secret sauce for success.
By making the most of our resources—whether it’s our talented team members, precious time, boundless energy, or hard-earned revenue—we’ve worked to craft efficient, consistent practices that break down barriers and pave the way for innovation.
This year, we’ve tried something different for our annual Year in Review. While it still includes all the great achievements and milestones of LS3P and its team members, the authors have also taken the opportunity to interview more than 20 key leaders throughout the firm to dive into the main themes of efficiency, innovation, adaptation, and aspiration.
These themes have fueled our achievements over the past year, and we’ve curated extracts from each of the interviews (using generative AI software) to share more details insight into why optimization is the key to delivering exceptional results for our clients, colleagues, and communities.
08-39
EFFICIENCIES
Working better, together.
40-55
INNOVATIONS
Bespoke solutions to everyday challenges.
56-69
ADAPTATIONS
Integrating new resources for success.
70-83
ASPIRATIONS
Planning for an even better tomorrow.
EMBRACE THE IDEA THAT SMALL CHANGES CAN BE INNOVATIVE.
MARC MARCHANT AIA, LEED AP CEO
2024 began with a promise to focus on optimization. We challenged each other with four firmwide goals: Optimize People Development and Support, Optimize Performance and Measures, Optimize Quality, Optimize Design Excellence.
We made great strides along many of these goals, but still have work to do with others. As part of our evolutionary process and the constant quest to improve through iteration, we will continue to exercise the theme of optimization as we enter 2025.
But first, it is worth reflecting on another successful year at LS3P. We continue to invest in world-class office space and training and development programs for our colleagues. These things support the growth of our greatest asset: our team members. We have honed our Go/No-Go process, continued to build a professional business development team, and developed smarter ways to mine and win good clients and projects.
We have deepened our expertise, welcomed new talent, and continued to advance talent to address our constant pursuit to design excellence. We are leading in the understanding and use of technology and tools, from AI to F.R.A.N.K. (LS3P’s intranet) and everything in-between. We are in perpetual motion, moving forward with a solid professional acumen while constantly seeking and learning new ways to improve the firm.
Amidst the course of business, we are also met with unforeseen, often uncontrollable, challenges. Untimely and unplanned departures, threats from hackers and nefarious technological outsiders, and natural disasters that disrupted business and create chaos for many of our colleagues. Yet we persevere, address, support, and move forward.
Our Values keep us grounded, and our Vision and Mission move us forward.
We are achieving much of what we set out to do at the beginning of the year. We have made measured investments in people, tools, and process. We have tried some things that worked well, and we have missed the mark on others.
All-in-all, we should step back and congratulate each other on our well-earned success. I am excited at what is next to come, living out our current plan while determining the next five years of advancement through Evolution30.
We are a firm of great value, uniquely designed, and purposefully made. We are poised to continue to develop and grow our colleagues; to innovate so we can best serve our clients, and to share design excellence across our community with meaningful impact.
It’s been a great year, and the best is yet to come!
EFFICIENCIES EFFICIENCIES
Team efficiency is LS3P’s top priority. Regular team huddles, both virtually and in person, have made operations smoother and supercharged our problem-solving. We’re also thrilled about our financial wellness efforts, boasting an impressive 94% participation rate in our 401(k) program.
On the tech front, we’ve made significant leaps with advancements in Revit templates and AI tools, turbocharging our capabilities. Enhanced dashboards and data analytics evolved our Knowledge Management systems, making self-service reporting a breeze and empowering informed decisionmaking firmwide.
OPTIMIZATION IS USING OUR RESOURCES MOST EFFECTIVELY.
Our daily huddles focus on ‘What’s up, Heads up, and What’s stuck,’ which has streamlined operations and improved problem-solving. These huddles provide a platform for team members to share updates, highlight potential issues, and seek assistance when needed. By addressing challenges in real-time, we can prevent small problems from escalating and ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards common goals. This practice has significantly enhanced our team’s efficiency and collaboration.”
Celebrating our people encourages growth.
In 2024, we had countless opportunities to celebrate our people. Our staff made significant impacts in their communities through various speaking engagements, teaching opportunities and new external professional memberships. We also celebrated numerous recognitions and milestone anniversaries, with many of our team members achieving professional licensure in architecture and interior design.
Casey Revelle (CLT) Practice Professional
Ginny Magrath (CLT) Senior Architect
Kellyn Messel (GSP) GSP Hospitality Leader
Chelsea Lawrence (CLT) Senior Interior Designer
John Edwards (GSP) GSP Office Leader
Chris Roberts (RDU) RDU Office Leader
Katie Kwaske (GSP) Interior Designer
Douglas Rackley (GSP) Senior Project Manager
Katie Robinson (CHS) Chief Marketing Officer
Mary Beth Branham (CAE) K-12 Practice Leader
Matt Bramstedt (ILM) ILM K-12 Sector Leader
Emily Kite (GSP) AVL K-12 Sector Leader
Casey Revelle (CLT)
Speaking Engagement: Charlotte Hornets Women in STEM
Chelsea Lawrence (CLT)
Speaking Engagement: IIDA Carolinas
Chris Roberts (RDU)
Speaking Engagement: NAIOP Raleigh Durham
Douglas Rackley (GSP)
Speaking Engagement: AIA Aspire Teaching Opportunity: Clemson University
Emily Kite (AVL)
Speaking Engagement: NCSBA Conference
Ginny Magrath (CLT)
Speaking Engagement: NCSBA Conference, and East Mecklenburg High School AIA Architecture in the Classroom Event
John Edwards (GSP)
Speaking Engagement: AIA Aspire, Lakes at Litchfield Lifelong Learning Program Guest Lecturer, and Clemson University SoA Graduate Master of Real Estate Development Program
Katie Kwaske (GSP)
Speaking Engagement: IIDA Upstate Chapter Teaching Opportunity: Anderson University Guest Reviewer for IIDA Student Design Competition
Katie Robinson (CHS)
Speaking Engagement: SMPS North Florida, SMPS National, and Knowledge Architecture Synthesis
Kellyn Messel (GSP)
Speaking Engagement: Cape Fear Community College Guest Speaker, Anderson University Student Work Guest Juror, and ASID Texas North Design Award Judge
Mary Beth Branham (CAE)
Speaking Engagement: NCSBA Conference
Matt Bramstedt (ILM)
Speaking Engagement: NCSBA Conference
Zakiya Wiggins (RDU) Architect
Shawn Sowers (RDU) Higher Education Practice Leader
Ryan Lewis (CHS) Project Manager
Ryan Sutherland (GSP) Architect
Leigh Pfeiffer (GSP) Sustainability Leader
Cari Gerrits (ATL) Business Development Professional
Kristie Nicoloff (GSP) Senior Project Manager
Beth Florence (CAE) Senior Interior Designer
Angela Douglas (ILM) ILM Healthcare Sector Leader
Matt Takacs (GSO) Senior Architect
Mike Martinez (GSP) Senior Project Manager
Angela Douglas (ILM)
Speaking Engagement: Wilmington Chamber of Commerce
Beth Florence (CAE)
Teaching Opportunity: IIDA Georgia Chapter
Cari Gerrits (ATL)
Speaking Engagement: ACEC Georgia, and SMPS Atlanta
Kristie Nicoloff (GSP)
Teaching Opportunity: CIDA Site Reviewer, Bob Jones University, and Anderson University
Leigh Pfeiffer (GSP)
Speaking Engagement: NC State University Panelist to Ethics in Leadership and Design Course, AIA Aspire, LeadingAge Carolinas, CREW Upstate South Carolina, and USGBC Carolinas
Matt Takacs (GSO)
Speaking Engagement: The Society for College and University Planning
Mike Martinez (GSP)
Speaking Engagement: AIA Greenville
Teaching Opportunity: UNC Charlotte, and Clemson University
Ryan Lewis (CHS)
Speaking Engagement: AIA South Carolina, and AIA Young Architects Forum, and AIA National
Ryan Sutherland (GSP)
Speaking Engagement: AIA Greenville
Shawn Sowers (RDU)
Speaking Engagement: The Society for College and University Planning
Zakiya Wiggins (RDU)
Speaking Engagement: AIA Aspire
“I’ve been paying more attention to how the world may look through my daughter’s eyes. Witnessing how a toddler explores and interacts with her surroundings is truly enlightening from an educational architecture perspective. Her innocent curiosity has inspired me to transform my approach to designing child-centric spaces.”
KAMERON QUICK AIA
CHS K-12 Sector Leader
"We've made significant progress in technology operations, including Revit standardization and the integration of AI tools, which have enhanced our capabilities. By adopting these advanced technologies, we can streamline our design processes, improve accuracy, and reduce the time required to complete projects. The use of AI tools, in particular, has allowed us to quickly visualize ideas and generate innovative solutions, ultimately leading to better project outcomes."
GEORGE TEMPLE AIA, LEED AP
President | Chief Operations Officer
Cindy Benjamin (GSP)
Speaking Engagement: Greenville Professional Women’s Forum
Ruth Parr (GSP) Digital Practice Manager | Senior Architect
David Loy (CLT) CLT Studio Leader
SURFSIDE BEACH FISHING PIER
RESTORATION SURFSIDE BEACH, SC
The art of design registers with our team.
We are thrilled to recognize team members who garnered new professional registrations in 2024.
Allison Gregory (RDU)
Prosci Change Management Practitioner
Amanda Johnson (SAV)
LEED Green Associate
Annie Zipper (RDU)
Registered Architect
Ariel Fischer (CLT)
Fitwel Ambassador
Carla Deeds (JAX)
Notary Public
Cynthia Turner (AVL)
Regenerative Practitioner Training Certificate
Deborah Lukan (CLT) Fitwel Ambassador
Dennis Blaschke (CHS) CAL EOS
Emma Edmondson (CLT)
Registered Architect
Ginny Magrath (CLT) CPTED Professional Designation
Isela Martinez (ILM) CAL EOS
Jon Galloway (RDU) AZ-140 Azure Virtual Desktop Specialist
Allison Gregory RDU
Amanda Johnson SAV
Annie Zipper RDU
Carla Deeds JAX
Cynthia Turner AVL
Dennis Blaschke CHS
Deborah Lukan CLT
Ariel Fischer CLT
Isela Martinez ILM
Jon Galloway RDU
Emma Edmondson CLT
Ginny Magrath CLT
GROVES K-12 SCHOOL GARDEN CITY, GA
Julianna Weih (CLT) NCIDQ
Kaitie Harrigan (GSO) Living Future Accreditation
Kelly Jones (GSP) CSI Construction Documents Technologist
Kyle Novak (CLT) CPTED Practitioner
Leigh Pfeiffer (GSP) AIA SAP Evaluator CAL OES and Nationwide, Green Globes Professional and Fitwel Ambassador
Maggie Maidl (CLT) NCIDQ
Marvin Murillo (GSP) SHRM-CP
Nick Bilgri (CHS) Registered Architect
Ryan Lewis (CHS) AIA South Carolina President Citation Award, CAL EOS
Ryan Sutherland (GSP) Registered Architect
Scott Brady (JAX) Florida Green Certified Professional
Tyler McKenzie (CAE) CPTED Professional Designation
Scott Brady JAX
Tyler McKenzie CAE
Nick Bilgri CHS
Ryan Lewis CHS
Ryan Sutherland GSP
Marvin Murillo GSP
Maggie Maidl CLT
Leigh Pfeiffer GSP
Kelly Jones GSP
Julianna Weih CLT
Kaitie Harrigan GSO
Kyle Novak CLT
THE PINCH HOTEL CHARLESTON, SC
Elevating our people leads to more collaboration and better outcomes.
We are excited to announce the recognition of our team members as new Principals, Associate Principals, Senior Associates, and Associates this year! These recognitions celebrate professionals who have made a significant impact through their dedication to design excellence, expertise, innovation, and collaborative engagement. By committing to elevating our people, we grow as an organization, making a lasting and enriching impact on each other, our clients, and our communities. Nominations for LS3P recognitions require examples of leadership in these areas, as well as our values of excellence, integrity, empowerment, collaboration, balance, stewardship, and caring. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to their continued growth and success.
“For me, optimization is always a people-centered approach. It’s focusing on what we can do in our work, how we can be better at designing spaces for people to inhabit, or how we can better understand our client’s vision. Optimization is asking the right questions - the human-centric questions - to get to the root of the problem faster and create a path forward.”
WIL DRENNAN ASSOC. AIA, LEED AP, CDT Studio Leader
ASSOCIATES
Alice Gray RDU
Amanda Holland CHS
Aria Marlowe RDU
Autumn Delfino CHS
Debra Gantt GSP
Emily Butler CHS
Jason Carangelo SAV
Jenn Smith MYR
Justin Lopez SAV
Kaelee Pearson GSP
Andrea Brady CHS
Andrew Bennington RDU
Annie Zipper RDU
Bobbie Ramsay CLT
Brittney Myers ATL
Carey Nelson GSP
Coral Rembert CLT
Emily Nelson RDU
Erin Mulligan CLT
Grace Strickland CHS
Iván Martínez ILM
Jenna Drozd CAE
Jorge Gallegos CLT
Josh Kieb CLT
Justin Acevedo RDU
Kara Thomason GSP
Lee Martin ATL
Madison Millsaps RDU
Maggie Maidl CLT
ASSOCIATES
Marissa Deters CLT
Melanie Simmons CLT
Nick Bilgri CHS
Rob Stenhouse AVL
Sierra Abbott-Brown CLT
Tori Vick CHS
Trent Webb GSP
Zakiya Wiggins RDU
SENIOR ASSOCIATES
Ashley Goheen MYR
Ashlin Fox ILM
Greg McNamara RDU
Jeremy Alford CHS
Leigh Pfeiffer GSP
Matthew Kauzlaric ILM
Michael Wagner RDU
Natallie Santiago Rodríguez SAV
Tanya De Leon GSP
Troy Roehm MYR
“Optimization is the serendipitous encounter of our talents, passion, and projects. Optimization forges a path to innovative design, which starts when we look at the built environment through the lens of individualized experiences and perspectives. Innovation fosters a space where diverse backgrounds breed more impactful, human-scale design.”
Austin Loman RDU
Chris Lucas ILM
Jimmy Wilhide CAE
Judi Hayden-Rank GSP
Matthew Thompson RDU
Megan Bilgri CHS
Dan Jenkins ATL
Deborah Lukan CLT
Kyle Kiser GSP
Laura Rice GSP
Melissa Watness MYR
Michael Garcia SAV
MICHAEL WAGNER AIA Design Strategy Leader
ASSOCIATE PRINCIPALS
Burgess Metcalf GSP
Chelsea Lawrence CLT
Gus Aretakis ILM
Patrick Cooley CLT
Meredith Ray CLT
Emily Kite GSP
“Innovation is most prominent in the way we’ve been able to seamlessly integrate technological advancements, especially in the realm of AI, into our work. It’s truly remarkable that LS3P has dedicated working diligently behind the scenes, exploring new possibilities and refining them to perfection. Their efforts not only bring something novel to the table but also ensure that it evolves in harmony with our vision and goals as a firm.”
John Bedell CHS
Paul Domlyn RDU
Christina Smith GSP
Dan Harrop RDU
Jonathan Cantor JAX
BRYAN BEERMAN AIA, NCARB, LEED GA Senior Architect
PRINCIPALS
Darrell Puffer CHS
David Anderson CAE
Dylan Towe CHS
Sarah Mobraten RDU
Shawn Sowers RDU
Willy Schlein GSP
YOUR CAREER IS A ROADWAY; DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE WINDING PATH.
JENNIFER C. SMITH HRM Chief People Officer
Both our lives and our careers are like a map - a guide that we’re constantly dictating and detouring from. And while you may have an idea of the destination, it’s important to recognize that there is more than one way to get there - and that you’ll grow en route.
The People Team spent 2024 focusing on career development at LS3P and the different paths we all take. We’ve mapped out the breadth and depth of each role’s impact - from the diverse perspectives of student interns to the camaraderie brought on by a successful leader. Our goal is to help each person own their talents and show them how those skills can guide their futures.”
We are endlessly honored by the dedication and commitment of our long-standing team members.
30 years
15 years
25 years
20 years
Becky Smith CHS
Brian Bresg CLT
Marc Marchant CHS
Scott Brady JAX
Chuck Ciesar CHS
Nathan Daniel CLT
Danny Adams ILM
Lauren McCord CLT
Claire Schultz CLT
Burgess Metcalf GSP
Catherine Grainger ILM
Chris Paa GSO
40 years 35 years
10 years
Eric Aichele CHS
Allen Taylor CAE
Carsyn Jarrell CLT
George Temple CHS
Greg Soyka CHS
Kenny Wiley CLT
Jennifer Dillon CLT
Katie Robinson CHS
Maggie Carnevale AVL
Mary Beth Branham CAE
Amanda Fedorisin CHS
Amie Kremer-Blankenship GSP
Ariel Fischer CLT
Daryl Rackley GSO
Denise Haines CHS
Farah Kresack CLT
Helen Byce GSP
years
years
Jeff Mural RDU
Laura Rice ATL
Meredith Ray CLT
April Mundy SAV
Ashlin Fox ILM
Bailey Bresee GSP
Josh Coates CLT
Justin Lopez SAV
Kaitie Harrigan GSO
Keely Haggar CLT
Matthew Scharf CHS
Megan Bilgri CHS
Richard Sloop CAE
Stacie Katsibas CHS
Will Mack CLT
Willy Schlein GSP
Ryan Sutherland GSP
Ryan Barkes CLT
Sara Johnson GSP
Will Hinkley GSP
Carley Downs CAE
Christy Zeidler RDU
Ethan Atherton RDU
Jon Galloway RDU
Kennedy Lambe CLT
Kristie Nicoloff GSP
Linda Melendez-Kilb GSO
Matt Thompson CLT
Tessa Romanowski ILM
Ting Wang CLT
Trevor Holmes CLT
INNOVATIONS INNOVATIONS
At LS3P, innovation and optimization are a dynamic duo. By finding unique solutions to complex problems, we achieve remarkable results. One of our standout successes has been the evolution of the Go/No-Go process, transforming how we pursue and execute our work.
AI tools like MidJourney have been gamechangers, enabling quick visualization and idea generation, bringing concepts to life more efficiently. Cross-pollination with other groups has also been a big win, boosting collaboration and knowledge sharing across the organization.
WE HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO DISRUPT OUR INDUSTRY.
ESPY HARPER EDAC, SIX SIGMA GB Innovation Leader
For some time now, I’ve been trying to disrupt architecture. I’m disappointed that our industry hasn’t had a major disruption, and I can’t put my finger on why - but I think AI is a starting point, though technology brings certain dangers, fears, and aspects better suited for a human with a clear sense of ethics. For example, there are times when I use AI for image generation, and I make sure to specify that I want a diverse population in the view. Often when I ask AI to show me images that portray the future of architecture, those images won’t include architects of color or women. We need to be vigilant about integrating inclusive language models and prompts so that AI can learn to be a good citizen alongside us.”
Innovation takes ideas from rendering to reality even faster.
In the ever-evolving world of architecture, LS3P took the past year to explore how to utilize artificial intelligence to drive innovation. Our AI Steering Committee uncovered new ways to optimize processes, allowing for seamless project management and efficient resource allocation. AI-driven tools assisted in organizing our emails, workflows, and daily schedules. Moreover, AI acted as a boundless source of inspiration; advanced algorithms analyzed global architectural trends and historical designs, generating innovative ideas that pushed the boundaries of creativity. This harmonious integration of technology not only enhanced our productivity in 2024, but also opened up new frontiers of architectural brilliance for years to come.
“Optimization through the lens of Risk Management involves streamlining processes. The primary opportunities for improvement lie in communication quality and training; we have numerous tools and resources at our disposal, but there are better ways to utilize them. This includes training to make people aware of these tools, understand how and when to use them, and incorporate them into their work progression.”
KEVIN BRYANT AIA, CCCA Risk Management Leader
At LS3P, design excellence is a catalyst for positive change.
We are honored to have 13 projects recognized with awards for design excellence in 2024. Each one is a testament to our team’s creativity, our client’s visions, and our region’s growth. 1. TEN30 Charlotte, NC CREW Charlotte Impact Award Winner AIA Charlotte Design Merit Award 2. Vantage South End Charlotte, NC Urban Design Award
3. nCino Headquarters Wilmington, NC ABC Carolinas Excellence in Construction Cape Fear CREW Best Development Award
4. Live Oak Bank Building 4 Wilmington, NC Building NC - Commercial Project 5. Clemson University Memorial Stadium Video Board Clemson, SC AIA SC Citation Award
6. Charlotte Rescue Mission Beaty Center for Transformation Charlotte, NC Charlotte Business Journal Heavy Hitters
7. MOBRO Marine Green Cove Springs, FL AIA Jacksonville Award of Excellence - Platinum
8. Clemson University Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business Clemson, SC
AIA Aspire Citation Award
9. Robert Smalls Leadership Academy Beaufort, SC
A4LE SC Citation Award
10. Hendersonville High School Hendersonville, NC
AGC Pinnacle Award
11. Broadstone Optimist Park Charlotte, NC
ASID Carolinas Award of Excellence - Platinum
12. Broadstone Peachtree Corners Peachtree Corners, GA
ASID Carolinas Award of Excellence - Gold
13. Broadstone Oak City Raleigh, NC
ASID Carolinas Award of Excellence - Silver
“I draw inspiration from the people around me. I am in awe with my teams, and I think about when I first started with the firm and the tasks that I would do versus what Marketing does and what Knowledge Management does today. Knowledge Management didn’t exist when I started with the firm. I think about the speed in which both teams can work and the creativity and the strategy that is coming out of them. It is just awe-inspiring, really. It motivates me to continue to build those teams because I can see what a substantial impact they have on the firm.”
KATIE ROBINSON CKM Chief Marketing Officer
THE WAY WE CHALLENGE OURSELVES SETS
CHRIS BONEY AIA Chief Relationships Officer
Every day we innovate whether we realize it or not. I see the things that people do every day to improve subtle processes or make themselves more efficient, and that’s innovation.
I think the real challenge for all of us is to think outside of what we do in the ‘here and now’; think bigger. We all get caught up in the tyranny of the day-to-day demands of our job.
I think innovation is about seeking the big ideas and the big stories that will drive future change; optimization is about refinement and iteration. It’s crucial that we take time every day to think ‘how can I do this better?’ or ‘what is missing from this?’”
We’ve done our research.
LS3P’s Practice Research Strategist Katherine Ball led the production of 16 publications on topics like artificial intelligence, cross laminated timber construction, phishing, and so much more.
Strong foundations take ideas higher.
The LS3P Foundation honored its first Design Interventions Grant recipients in 2024 to universities, companies, and organizations in the region who are committed to advancing impactful research.
Board Members
Addressing Climate Change and Tourism on the Southeastern Barrier Islands
by Clemson University Master of Architecture Program
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: “Our project addresses two of the major challenges that affect disadvantaged coastal communities in the Southeast: the double threat of climate change and tourist development. In this context, our main goal is to empower and give agency to local communities in a two-step approach: to educate the public about these threats, and to create and distribute materials that offer practical assistance and design guidelines for future development.”
Building for Wellbeing
by North Carolina State University College of Design
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: “Because little research exists on how community schools provide resiliency support during and after disasters, this research explores developing an applicable framework for designing for community resilience in K-12 schools through lenses of both resiliency and community support.”
Blueprint: Sea Level Rise on Georgia’s Coast
Georgia Conservancy – Georgia Institute of Technology Urban Design Coastal Studios
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: “In its first phase, urban design students will conduct research on best practices for flood-prone and climate-vulnerable coastal developments from around the world. Then, under the coordination of design professionals in the Master’s in Urban Design program at the Georgia Institute of Technology, teams of architecture and urban design students will create site-specific design proposals that envision the future of the built environment in select coastal communities in Georgia.”
Chris Boney
Espy Harper
Neil Dawson
Kate Schwennsen
John Monteith Monteith Construction
INNOVATION IS ABOUT STREAMLINING OUR PROCESSES.
KATHERINE PEELE FAIA, LEED AP Chief Practice Officer
We’re standardizing repetitive tasks - things like door schedules, room finish schedules, etc. - to make more time for design. It’s using the right resources, the right tools, to streamline our process and make space for creativity. Innovation is also measuring value in terms of time; lessening the time it takes to do monotonous tasks to optimize opportunities for creative thinking. We’ve spent time over the last year testing different iterations of rendering software to determine which program delivers the best outcomes. We’re not looking to have AI generate buildings, but it is a phenomenal resource to present our vision to a client in the early stages.”
New voices. More airwaves.
LS3P released 14 new episodes of Human Scale - our podcast aimed at capturing the stories of team members firmwide.
Meredith Ray Co-host | Marketing Director
Patrick Cooley Co-host | Senior Practice Professional
Bailey Bresee Producer & Editor | Practice Marketing Manager
Carey Nelson Out of Office - Side Hustles & Hobbies
Samantha McElroy Out of Office - Side Hustles & Hobbies
Becky Smith Love, Death, and the Submittals in Between
Roy Smith Love, Death, and the Submittals in Between
Marc Marchant Marc the Occasion
Kelly Wagner Cruisin’ with Kelly
Bryan Beerman Falling Into Place
Ruth Parr Ruth the Truth the Revit Sleuth
Kaitie Harrigan Out of Office - Side Hustles & Hobbies
Katherine Schuff Out of Office - Side Hustles & Hobbies
Travis King Out of Office - Side Hustles & Hobbies
Greg McNamara All That and a Bag of Chips
Brian Wurst The Best of the Wurst
Roger Attanasio Read the... Contract!
Leigh Pfeiffer Hot Topic
Mary Beth Branham Renaissance Woman
Katherine Peele A Good Foundation
Espy Harper
Aspire to Inspire
Zakiya Wiggins
Aspire to Inspire Melanie
ADAPTATIONS ADAPTATIONS
Growth and adaptation were the cornerstones of our success in 2024. Maintaining a supportive work environment was key to our ability to thrive. Thanks to strategic planning and intentional communication, significant leadership transitions, and technological advancements, LS3P was able to smoothly adapt to change.
As our team has expanded, we’ve enhanced capacity management and system efficiencies to meet demand. We faced challenges like prioritization and project management staff shortages, but creative solutions and a focus on empathy, communication, and grace helped us overcome these obstacles.
A BROADER VIEW OF THE WORLD LEADS TO BETTER DECISIONS.
JEREMY ALFORD AIA, NCARB, LEED GA Senior Architect
As our team has grown, we’ve improved capacity management and system efficiencies to keep up with demand. By optimizing our processes and leveraging technology, we can handle a larger volume of work without compromising on quality. This approach has allowed us to scale effectively and continue delivering exceptional results for our clients, even as our team and project portfolio have expanded.”
On November 22, our Asheville team was able to celebrate potable water being returned to the city, just in time for Thanksgiving!
“Within the Technology team, we see optimization in the alignment of our roles, our talents, and our histories. While it may differ from the jobs we thought we were hired for, our practice has adapted to the needs of the firm as we see it today, and creates structure for growth in two years, four years, and five years down the road.”
JAY ADDISON IT Operations Manager
Caring holds us together.
In September 2024, western North Carolina experienced sweeping devastation; Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region and moved northward, dumping nearly 18 inches of water into Asheville alone. The Blue Ridge Mountains acted as a funnel for the rapid rainfall, leading entire communities to be swept away, roadways made impassible, and power supplies cut-off for miles.
TAKING ACTION
Once the skies cleared, LS3P team members across the region sprung into action. Donations poured into local organizations. Caravans brought fresh meals, clothing, water and gasoline to colleagues and strangers in hard-hit areas. Our Charlotte team hosted a paint and sip event in the office, with David Bellamy selling his personal artwork to raise money for communities impacted by the storm. LS3P team members even opened their homes to their colleagues in need, helping them to get back on their feet one step at a time.
GIVING BACK
During the 2024 holiday season, LS3P partnered with several organizations as they continued their relief efforts following the historic impacts of Hurricane Helene. With these gifts, we remembered with sorrow those who lost their lives, honored the incredible spirit and resilience of the Southeast, and celebrated the brave responders who continue to serve the people of our region - and we encouraged our clients, consultants, friends, and neighbors to do the same.
1. EMERGE at Crush Yard (CHS)
2. Armstrong Headquarters Tour (multiple offices)
3. Classroom Central School Supply Drive (CLT)
4. Earth Day at Jackson Creek Elementary School (CAE)
5. Volunteering at Atlanta Humane Society (ATL)
6. CANStruction (CLT)
7. AIAT Women in Architecture Networking Event (RDU)
8. Beachside Barbecue (ILM)
9. CRU Panel Discussion (CLT)
10. American Heart Association Heart Walk (CHS)
11. Career & Leadership Development Academy (ILM)
12. Clemson Tours the Line Street Development (CHS)
18. Volunteering at Grand Strand Humane Society (MYR)
19. Haven House Cornhole Tournament (RDU)
20. Holiday Beach Bowl (JAX)
21. Kick it for Kids (RDU)
22. March of Dimes Luncheon (GSP)
23. Donation Drive for Libby & Mace’s Place Animal Rescue (CHS)
24. Monthly Mile Walk (ILM)
25. Oconee County ED Golf Tournament (GSP) 26. Operation Christmas Child (ILM) 27. Relay for Life (MYR)
28. Samaritan’s Purse (ATL)
29. School Supply Drive (RDU)
30. Summer Intern Construction Tour (RDU)
31. Summer Scholars Office Tour (GSP)
32. Swain County Schools Award NC DPI Grant (GSP)
33. Supporting Wrightsville SUP (ILM)
34. Tri County Technical College Presidents Cup (GSP)
35. Trick or Treating at the Market Common (MYR)
36. Walk to End Alzheimer’s (GSO)
37. We Care Event (CLT)
38. Well Spring Be the Solution Event (GSO)
INTENTIONALITY LEADS TO BETTER WORK-LIFE BALANCE.
LISA PINYAN IIDA, ASID, LEED AP SAV Office Leader
We’ve learned a lot over the past year, and it’s shaped how we look at our projects. By zeroing in on the right opportunities, we’re making the most of our efforts. Chasing every single project can be exhausting and often pointless, so being selective is key. This way, we’re saving time and resources and can really dive deep into the projects and clients that match our strengths and goals. Plus, this focus helps us build stronger relationships with our current clients. When we’re not stretched thin by going after every lead, we can give more attention and deliver better results. Our clients appreciate our dedication and expertise, which leads to more successful collaborations while encouraging creativity in our designs.”
“2024 was an experiment in innovation; we saw a lot of refinement in terms of technological efficiency. We adapted workflows from project onset - allowing team members to launch new designs with ease, integrate BIM models, and optimize the information that the model draws from.”
DARRELL PUFFER AIA, LEED AP, WELL AP Technology Leaer
FRANKIE LEMMON SCHOOL
FIRST TEE TRIANGLE RALEIGH, NC
Giving back to the region in kind.
Our Design In-Kind program allowed us to continue our pro bono work to make a meaningful impact on communities across the Southeast.
First Tee Triangle Raleigh, NC
MUSC Hollings Cancer Center Charleston, SC
Hickory Top Farms Master Plan Columbia, SC
Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity Wilmington, NC
Frankie Lemmon School Raleigh, NC
St. Augustine Master Plan Raleigh, NC
Autism-Friendly Healthcare MUSC Raleigh, NC
Family Promise of Wake County Raleigh, NC
Haywood Street Community Development Asheville, NC
“We’ve faced challenges such as prioritization and project management staff shortages, but creative solutions and a focus on empathy, communication, and grace have helped us overcome these obstacles. By fostering a supportive work environment and encouraging open communication, we can address issues proactively and find innovative solutions to keep our projects on track. This approach has been essential to our ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.”
Looking ahead to 2025, our strategic plan is all about fostering an innovative culture and aspirational thinking. We’re invigorated by leveraging AI and new digital tools to achieve better project outcomes and continue our growth and improvement.
Community engagement remains a top priority, and we’re committed to meaningful work that makes a positive impact. We’re dedicated to providing opportunities for our team members to grow and take on new roles, ensuring that LS3P remains a dynamic and forward-thinking organization.
OPTIMIZATION IS MAKING THE BEST OF WHAT WE HAVEOUR PEOPLE &
NICK BILGRI AIA, LEED GA Architect | Urban Designer
Community engagement remains a priority, and we’re committed to meaningful work that makes a positive impact. By actively participating in community initiatives and building strong relationships with local stakeholders, we can contribute to the wellbeing and development of the communities we serve. This focus on community engagement is an integral part of our mission and values.”
“We’re dedicated to providing opportunities for our team members to grow and take on new roles, ensuring that LS3P remains a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. By investing in professional development and creating pathways for career advancement, we can attract and retain top talent and foster a culture of continuous learning and growth. This commitment to our people is essential to our long-term success.”
RUTH PARR AIA Digital Practice Manager
Our interns made a splash in all of our offices - offering unique perspectives to solve complex design probelms.
A special thank you to our interns for their dedication and innovative contributions. Their hard work and fresh perspectives have significantly enriched our team, making a lasting impact on our projects and overall success.
To encourage firmwide collaboration across our intern class, LS3P hosted a t-shirt design competition. The rules were simple: work as a group to capture the essence of a summer with LS3P. We received 15 incredible t-shirt design submissions, but only one could take home the gold.
Inspired by the Summer Olympics, the team’s t-shirt design combines an architectural section of a pool with the LS3P logo serving as the diving platform. Grid lines draw a connection between the internship program and the summer games while reinforcing the idea of a dive as an architectural drawing. The overarching concept was a clear winner - and stylish wardrobe addition - in our eyes!
Aden Wright CLT
Alexa Smith JAX
Alyza Zink CLT
Aidan Gowe CHS
Caroline Woodard CHS
Daniel Montalvo GSP
Dasha Shishkina CLT
Diego Milner AVL
Ghritika Paul CHS
Hannah Farrugia GSP
Isaac Goodin ILM
Julia Goodman CHS
Isabella Losavio RDU
Kinsley Stevens RDU
Maggie Orta CLT
Michael McCarroll CLT
Mackenzie Shipman RDU
Samantha Brennan CLT
Sydney Cherrington ATL
Tyler Costa RDU
“Quality control is becoming increasingly understood firmwide. We’ve optimized our workflow with a standardized internal request form - helping to remove a barrier to communication. Our team is here to help projects be more successful; limiting exposure, lessening challenges, and encouraging collaboration. Our grassroots movement has been widely embraced, with our people asking for help around every turn.”
GUS ARETAKIS CCHM Quality Leader
Amber Hanselman ILM
Brooke Phares CHS
Cami Magallanes Lagos CLT
Andrew Tuz CLT
Elise Petit CHS
Ella Fata GSP
Eva Bean RDU
Elizabeth Levine CLT
Jack Demarest AVL
Jessica Gray CAE
Joel Abidoo MYR
Jackson Copeland GSP
Mary Caroline Degnan GSP
Mia Mangold CHS
William Hough CAE
We welcomed our newest additions in 2024!
August Hunter Fedorisin
Amanda Fedorisin
Sophia Elena Trujillo
Andrea Trujillo
Shepherd Patrick Walters
Emily Walters
Benjamin Brendle Hines Jason Hines
Annabelle Lyn Harrigan
Kaitie Harrigan
Callum Samuel Emme
Kyle Emme
Henry Thompson
Matt Thompson
Ian Russell Colfer
Megan Colfer
Joseph Steven Drozd
Jenna Drozd
Grey Allen Kieb
Josh Kieb
Margot-Ryan Graciella Sutherland Ryan Sutherland
WE’RE BUILDING A BETTER, STRONGER COMMUNITYONE DESIGN AT A TIME.
NATALLIE SANTIAGO RODRÍGUEZ ASSOC. AIA Senior Practice Professional
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re excited about leveraging AI and new digital tools to achieve better project outcomes and continue our growth and improvement. By embracing these technologies, we can enhance our design processes, improve efficiency, and deliver even more innovative solutions for our clients. Our strategic planning efforts are focused on fostering an innovative culture and future-oriented thinking, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of our industry.”
To those who retired in 2024: we wish you simply the best!
Thank you for your contributions to LS3P over the years!
Brian T. Wurst CHS
Scott P. Sampson CHS
Prescott (Scott) D. May GSP
Steve Moody GSP
W. Elliott O’Neal, Jr. ILM
Paul Davis Boney ILM
Rick Peele RDU
J Moore GSO
Roger M. Attanasio CLT
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Thank you to all who offered their time, perspectives and guidance in the creation of the 2024 Year in Review.
