A team of talented and dedicated professionals.

A team of talented and dedicated professionals.

A team of talented and dedicated professionals.

A team of talented and dedicated professionals.

A team of talented and dedicated professionals.

Adan Rios

Al Socias

Amanda Gusky

NICDQ, IIDA

Associate

Amanda Gusky

NICDQ, IIDA
Associate

Education

Master of Science, Interior Design, Florida State University

Bachelor of Science, Architectural Studies, Florida A&M University

Joined HKIT

2016

Amanda excels in transforming interior spaces through thoughtful planning and design. Her strengths lie in space planning, product research, and project specifications for many of the firm’s education and residential projects. Collaborating closely with clients, she guides them in visualizing spaces and selecting materials, finishes, furniture, color palettes, and lighting. When she is not creating beautiful spaces, she is the chairperson of the firm’s Social Committee, which organizes various events and outings for staff.

Amelia Goldrup

Amy Fine

CCS

Associate

Amy Fine

CCS
Associate

Education

Associate of Science, Architecture, Fresno City College

Joined HKIT

2017

Amy is an integral member of the firm’s education studio, managing several TK-12 projects encompassing campus modernizations and new construction. Her experience in applying best practices and methods to all project phases enables her to manage projects of all sizes and scopes thoroughly. Amy is a certified construction specifier who produces specifications that support the integrity of a project’s design and constructability. She heads the firm’s Professional Development Program, and outside of the office, she mentors young adults in design technology classes at local high schools.

Analin Geritz

Ariella Granett

AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Associate

Ariella Granett

AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Associate

Education

Bachelor of Arts, Architecture, University of California, Berkeley

Joined HKIT

2019

Ariella possesses a unique background in both architecture and interior design, resulting in an energetic approach to placemaking and storytelling in her projects. With a focus on interior design, she can integrate architectural systems to create vibrant, dynamic, and inclusive environments. Her work has focused on affordable multifamily housing, institutional, and TK-12 educational projects. Resilience and well-being are the underpinnings of Ariella’s approach to design, and she endeavors to educate clients about the value of sustainable strategies.

Audrey Garcia

Betsy Fikir

Bonnie Williams

Construction Administration Support Manager

Bonnie Williams

Construction Administration Support Manager

Joined HKIT

2003

Since joining the firm over two decades ago, Bonnie has been a valued and essential team member, supporting the firm’s steady growth and maintaining office operations. In her role as Construction Administration Support Manager, she is a consummate resource to all project teams, providing organizational and administrative support during the construction administration phase of projects.

Catalina Guerrero

Christophe Laverne

AIA, LEED AP, NCARB

Principal

Christophe Laverne

AIA, LEED AP, NCARB
Principal

Education

Master of Architecture, University of Oregon

Bachelor of Arts, Marketing, University of the Pacific

Joined HKIT

2013

Christophe has over two decades of design and management experience for a variety of project types within the senior living, multifamily residential, municipal, and civic sectors. He is one of the firm’s leaders in the senior living studio, focusing on collaborations with notable developer partners in Northern California. His approach to architectural design is rooted in meaningful, sustainable, and healthful experiences that balance the built and natural environment. Actively involved in the senior living industry, Christophe is a member of the AIA National’s Design for Aging Committee and has spoken at conferences for LeadingAge, Environments for Aging, and BisNow.

Cindy Morales

Dannielle Sergent

Director of Interiors

Dannielle Sergent

Director of Interiors

Education

Master of Architecture, University of Texas, Austin

Bachelor of Environmental Design, University of California, Berkeley

Joined HKIT

2021

Dannielle has three decades of experience in architecture and interior design, working on a diverse range of affordable housing, senior living, hospitality, and commercial projects. Her hospitality and retail design background brings a positive and unique approach to the firm’s community-based projects, bringing an elevated design approach to spaces that enhance the lives of often underserved persons. As a recognized artist outside of the office, Dannielle leverages her knowledge to curate the artwork in several of the firm’s projects.

Erika Meller

Erwin Won

LEED AP

Associate

Erwin Won

LEED AP
Associate

Education

Bachelor of Architecture, University of California, Berkeley

Joined HKIT

1989

For over three decades, Erwin has played a vital role in numerous projects within the education studio, both as a Project Manager and Construction Administrator. He excels in facilities evaluation, planning, and designing both new and modernized sites, applying meticulous attention to detail during a project’s construction administration phase. With  keen technical skills and an eye for detail, Erwin can effectively communicate with general contractor partners in the field and on-site.

Felix Hunziker

Associate

Felix Hunziker


Associate

Education

Bachelor of Arts, Architecture, University of California, Berkeley

Joined HKIT

1999

Felix is a cornerstone of the firm’s education studio, providing leadership on a wide range of TK-14 educational facility projects. As a senior project manager, he leads teams through all phases –  streamlining project planning, establishing design standards, and managing project costs and schedules. Fundamental to his approach to practical and realistic architectural solutions is his prior background in carpentry and trades experience as a journeyman carpenter. Felix can apply practical experience to manage projects and bridge solutions in partnership with general contractor partners.

Gordana Graves

Graham Booth

Greg Hielsberg

NCARB, CCS

Associate

Greg Hielsberg

NCARB, CCS
Associate

Education

Master of Architectural Design, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Southern Illinois University

Joined HKIT

2021

As a key member of the firm’s education studio, Greg brings two decades of experience planning and designing evocative learning environments. He excels at managing projects, effectively collaborating with clients to define goals, establish design direction, and manage budgets and schedules. Beyond his project expertise and contributions, Greg is the chairperson of the firm’s Production Standards Committee, responsible for updating, formalizing, and communicating internal design production standards to enhance efficiencies across project teams.

Harmony Santoro

CSI, CDT

Hoshana Maharjan

Jamie Demelo

Jason Shirriff

AIA, LEED AP BD+C, ASAI

Associate

Jason Shirriff

AIA, LEED AP BD+C, ASAI
Associate

Education

Bachelor of Architecture, Southern California Institute of Architecture

Joined HKIT

1997

Jason has been a cornerstone of the firm’s project management team for over two decades, significantly shaping the firm’s education, multifamily residential, and senior living project portfolio. In his roles as Architect and Project Manager, he has led  large and complex projects and smaller scale projects. Outside of the office, Jason has made an impact on the wider architectural community through his involvement and past presidency with the American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI). His dedication and skills in architectural illustration were recognized with the ASAI’s Award of Excellence in four years, most recently in 2022.

Jeff Ellis

Jeff Evans

AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Principal

Jeff Evans

AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Principal

Education

Master of Architecture, University of California, Berkeley

Bachelor of Science, Architecture, University of Virginia

Joined HKIT

2004

Jeff is one of the firm’s leaders in the education studio, having focused his career on the design of thoughtful, efficient, and inspiring learning environments. He is one of the firm’s key resources for innovative building practices and emerging trends in the TK-14 sector. His experience spans nearly all project types, small and large, including district-wide assessments and master plans; modernizations and renovations; and new construction and additions. Jeff’s leadership capabilities are a central strength during the initial project phases, primarily during visioning and programming, where he skillfully guides clients and stakeholder groups to successfully and collectively understand goals and objectives.

Jeff Heermann

Jeff Loustau

AIA, LEED AP

Jenna Costanza

Jennifer Lew

LEED AP

Joey Favaloro

AIA

Associate

Joey Favaloro

AIA
Associate

Joey has dedicated her career to designing spaces that inspire and support their users, with a focus on educational spaces. She specializes in creating future-ready learning environments, working closely with both public and independent school clients. Her expertise includes master planning, new construction, and modernization projects, all underscored by her commitment to fostering strong client relationships and community engagement. Joey’s commitment to local educational institutions extends to her participation in San Francisco USD’s Career Pathways Advisory Board and Laney College Architecture Department Advisory Board.

John Frando

AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, CASp

Principal

John Frando

AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, CASp
Principal

Education

Master of Architecture, University of California, Berkeley

Bachelor of Design, Architecture, University of Florida

Joined HKIT

1996

John has over three decades of architectural design, project management, and construction administration experience, primarily focused on the senior living market. His dedication to the development of affordable and market rate senior living environments stems from a passion for creating homes that improve the lives of seniors in support of the aging-in-place approach. As one of the firm’s leaders in the senior living practice area, his focus has been exclusively on all types of senior communities, including independent, assisted, memory care, and skilled nursing. John is a Certified Access Specialist and, as such, has in-depth knowledge of the applicability of State and Federal construction related accessibility standards, and in particular, experience that applies to occupied rehabilitation work.

Jordan Blacker

Jordan Fong

AIA

Associate

Jordan Fong

AIA
Associate

Education

Bachelor of Architecture, University of Hawaii

Joined HKIT

1999

For over two decades, Jordan has held a key role as a Project Architect and Project Manager focused on education and residential projects. His experience encompasses a variety of project types, including the modernization and new construction of educational facilities and the development of affordable housing communities for families and seniors. Jordan is an active member of the firm’s Production Standards Committee, tasked with standardizing and improving internal processes and procedures related to design documentation.

Justin Low

Ken Lin

AIA, Fitwel Amb., LEED Green Associate

Kha Nguyen

Assoc. AIA, LEED Green Associate

Lisa Laue

AIA

Associate

Lisa Laue

AIA
Associate

Education

Bachelor of Architecture, Rensselaer University

Joined HKIT

2018

With nearly a decade of experience, Lisa excels in the design and project management of multifamily residential projects, with a focus on affordable housing. She is skilled in all project phases, from assessments through construction administration and is particularly adept at working effectively with local agencies and jurisdictions for project approvals. Lisa’s deep understanding of building technologies and standards gives her the ability to effectively collaborate with builders in the field.

Melissa Regan-Byers

AIA, LEED AP, NCARB

Principal

Melissa Regan-Byers

AIA, LEED AP, NCARB
Principal

Education

Bachelor of Architecture, Louisiana State University

Joined HKIT

2006

With two decades of experience, Melissa has been instrumental in delivering award-winning projects for TK-14 school districts in the Bay Area, spanning facility master planning to new construction and modernizations. She has a keen understanding of the delicate balance between financial considerations, including bond measures and capital costs, with the goal of creating healthy and resilient learning spaces. With a passion for creating spaces that support both learning and well-being, Melissa is deeply committed to coaching clients about the significant impact of sustainable design practices on student wellness and success.

Michael Rizza

AIA

Neal Pann

AIA, LEED AP

Paul McElwee

AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Principal

Paul McElwee

AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Principal

Education

Bachelor of Architecture, Carnegie Mellon University

Joined HKIT

2005

For over three decades, Paul’s career has focused on the design of residential communities, with specialized experience in affordable multifamily and senior housing projects, encompassing assisted living, special needs, and permanent supportive housing. His approach to architectural design emphasizes the creation of sustainable and healthful environments, welcoming the community-at-large to influence the design of the places they call home. Paul is professionally active outside of the office, speaking at BisNow and as an active member of the East Bay Housing Organization’s Faith & Justice Committee.

Pauline Manansala

Controller

Pauline Manansala

Controller

Education

Masters in Accounting, Texas A&M University

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Computer Information Systems, San Francisco State University

Joined HKIT

2026

As the Controller, Pauline plays a critical role in managing the financial health of the firm, providing strategic financial guidance to the leadership team, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards. She is responsible for overseeing financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and analysis, contributing to the firm’s overall financial strategy.

Pete Corcoran

Marketing Manager

Pete Corcoran

Marketing Manager

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts, Pratt Institute

Joined HKIT

2025

Peter has a passion for building brands through compelling narratives and strong visual storytelling. His targeted approach helps the firm’s messaging resonate with clients and stakeholders, while elevating graphic standards and showcasing the firm’s commitment to design excellence and community impact. Peter manages the firm’s social media channels and proactively supports all studios through research, pursuit development, and content management.

Ping Liu

Priscilla Woo

LEED AP BD+C

Renee Wieber

Rezvan Jorshary

LEED Green Associate

Robert Gruspe

Rod Henmi

FAIA, LEED AP, NOMAC

Ruben Castillo-Banuelos

Sam McGeehan

Associate

Sam McGeehan

Associate

Education

Master of Architecture, Montana State University

Bachelor of Arts, Environmental Design, Montana State University

Joined HKIT

2021

Sam has more than two decades of experience working across a broad range of project types, including multifamily residential, educational, retail, commercial, and hospitality. He has managed several of the firm’s affordable housing projects, partnering closely with clients and builders to develop thoughtfully designed and sustainable spaces. Sam focuses his practice on affordable housing and brings additional expertise in modular construction. He also serves as chair of the firm’s quarterly Housing Forum, where he actively contributes to the knowledge and best practices across the housing studio.

Sandra Perez

Sean Winchester

RA

Shiori Sageshima

Skye Parker

CDT

Stan Lam

Tisha Tasaki

Director of Marketing

Tisha Tasaki

Director of Marketing

Education

Bachelor of Arts with Distinction, Interior Architecture, California College of the Arts

Joined HKIT

2021

As a true local with deep roots in the East Bay and three decades of experience in the A/E/C industry, Tisha offers unique local insight and value to the firm’s marketing, business development, and communications efforts. As the leader of the firm’s marketing team, she directs comprehensive marketing and communications strategies to enhance  the firm’s visibility, reputation, and engagement with clients.

Vanden Baysa

Vicky Guo

LEED Green Associate

Victor Chu

Yanina Pensa

Certified Revit Professional

Associate

Yanina Pensa

Certified Revit Professional
Associate

Education

Master of Global BIM Management, Zigurat Global Institute of Technology

Joined HKIT

2020

Yanina is a versatile designer with experience in residential, commercial, hospitality, and mixed-use developments. Most recently, her work has focused on senior living communities, both market-rate and affordable, throughout the Bay Area and Southern California.  As an Autodesk Certified Revit Professional, she is a key member of the firm’s Revit Committee, where she actively shares technical expertise and supports the development of best practices across the firm.

Young Woo ‘Mac’ Son

AIA