Team

Team

Team

Christopher P. Dewey AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

President

As Principal at VAA, Chris is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination of staff and integration of client goals. He has extensive experience serving on project for clients across a variety of market sectors, including non-profit, institutional, education, healthcare, commercial, public, industrial and retail. Chris functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He works collaboratively with CM’s and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise.
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member
  • Comercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP) Member
  • Cleveland Restoration Society Member
  • Construction Management Association of America (CMAA Ohio) Program Director
cdewey@vaakins.com
As Principal at VAA, Chris is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination of staff and integration of client goals. He has extensive experience serving on project for clients across a variety of market sectors, including non-profit, institutional, education, healthcare, commercial, public, industrial and retail. Chris functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He works collaboratively with CM’s and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise.

cdewey@vaakins.com

As President at VAA, Christopher P. Dewey is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination of staff and integration of client goals. Chris brings over 20 years of professional design experience to the team and has extensive experience providing project management and oversight on projects in almost every sector. Chris functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He is a Registered Architect in both Ohio and New York, is a member of the Cleveland Restoration Society, and is a graduate of Kent State University. 

Christopher P. Dewey AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

President

K-12 Education Studio Director

As President at VAA, Christopher P. Dewey is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination of staff and integration of client goals. Chris brings over 20 years of professional design experience to the team and has extensive experience providing project management and oversight on projects in almost every sector. Chris functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He is a Registered Architect in Ohio, New York and Utah, is a member of the Cleveland Restoration Society, and is a graduate of Kent State University.

 

  • Registered Architect
  • American Institute of Architects Cleveland Member
  • National Council of Architectural Registration Boards Certified
  • Certified in Infection Control Risk Assessment for Healthcare Construction
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional
  • Cleveland Restoration Society Member
  • Past Construction Management Association of America Program Director
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member

Melissa A. Fliegel RA

Associate Principal - Healthcare Studio Director

Associate Principal Melissa A. Fliegel, who has been with VAA her entire career, is a Registered Architect with over 20 years of project design experience. Melissa has served on a variety of project types, including higher education facilities, K-12 schools, healthcare facilities, recreation, commercial offices and public spaces. Melissa has proven her ability to work through complex problems as they arise, effectively lead the architectural design efforts of the team, review work, incorporate feedback and remain committed to our client’s mission. Melissa is a graduate of Kent State University and the former Chair of the Cleveland Heights Architectural Board of Review.

 

  • Registered Architect
  • Certified in Infection Control Risk Assessment for Healthcare Construction
  • Former Chair of the Cleveland Heights Architectural Board of Review
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member

Justin G. Fliegel AIA, LEED AP

Associate Principal - Higher Education Studio Director

Associate Principal Justin G. Fliegel is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of project design experience. Justin is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination with staff and integration of client goals. Justin will work collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise. He is a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the American Institute of Architects, and is a graduate of Kent State University.

 

  • Registered Architect
  • American Institute of Architects Cleveland Member
  • National Trust for Historic Preservation Member
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member

John P. Kaminski AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Associate Principal - Sports and Recreation Studio Director

Associate Principal John P. Kaminski is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of experience. John has vast experience working on a variety of complex project types, including sports and recreation facilities, hospitality and casinos, civic projects, commercial offices and K-12 schools. John is committed to creating successful and environmentally conscious projects by working collaboratively with all project team members to ensure the client’s goals are met. He takes pride in specializing in 3D rendering programs that bring the client’s vision to life before their project is built. He is a graduate of Kent State University and a member of the American Institute of Architects.

 

  • Registered Architect
  • American Institute of Architects Cleveland Member
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional

Holly A. Grambort RA, NCARB, LEED AP

Senior Project Manager - Zoological Studio Director

Zoological Studio Director Holly A. Grambort is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of project design experience. Her wide-ranging portfolio includes zoological exhibits, camp and nature projects, higher education facilities, K-12 schools, civic projects, healthcare facilities, and commercial offices. Holly works collaboratively with clients, consultants, and contractors to facilitate successful and sustainable outcomes. She is focused on ensuring our clients are listened to and their unique needs are met. Holly is a Registered Architect in Ohio and Michigan and is a graduate of Tulane University.

 

  • Registered Architect
  • National Council of Architectural Registration Boards Certified
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional
  • Certified in Infection Control Risk Assessment for Healthcare Construction
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member

Jill Van Auken AIA

Founder

Jill Van Auken AIA is the Founder of VAA. With over 35 years of professional experience, Jill has facilitated projects in nearly every sector. Jill was recognized by the National Association of Women Business Owners as a Top Ten Business Owner, is a member of Smart Business’ Smart 50 Class of 2019, and was recently regarded as one of Greater Cleveland’s Most Influential Women by Cleveland.com. Jill is a member of the Greater Cleveland Partnership’s Air Service Demand Task Force, the former Treasurer of American Institute of Architects Cleveland, a current Cuyahoga County Harvest For Hunger Campaign Cabinet Member, the former Vice-Chair of Beaumont School’s Board of Directors, and a graduate of the University of Notre Dame.

 

  • Registered Architect
  • Greater Cleveland Partnership Air Service Demand Task Force Member
  • American Institute of Architects Member and Past Treasurer
  • Beaumont School Past Board of Directors Vice Chair
  • Cuyahoga County Harvest for Hunger Campaign Cabinet Member
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member

Melissa A. Fliegel RA

Associate Principal

Healthcare Studio Director

Melissa, who has been with VAA her entire career, is a Registered Architect with 20 years of project design experience. Melissa is integral at every stage of a project, from programming through construction administration. She serves as the technical expert as it relates to design and construction activities, and works to resolve problems of major scope and complexity. She follows the project through construction administration, working with the contractor and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve issues which may arise. Her portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries, with a specialty in Pre-K through 12 education projects.
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member
  • Comercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP) Member
  • National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Certified
mfliegel@vaakins.com
Melissa, who has been with VAA her entire career, is a Registered Architect with 20 years of project design experience. Melissa is integral at every stage of a project, from programming through construction administration. She serves as the technical expert as it relates to design and construction activities, and works to resolve problems of major scope and complexity. She follows the project through construction administration, working with the contractor and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve issues which may arise. Her portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries, with a specialty in Pre-K through 12 education projects.

mfliegel@vaakins.com

Associate Principal Melissa A. Fliegel, who has been with VAA her entire career, is a Registered Architect with over 20 years of project design experience. Melissa has served on a variety of project types, including higher education facilities, K-12 schools, healthcare facilities, recreation, commercial offices and public spaces. Melissa has proven her ability to work through complex problems as they arise, effectively lead the architectural design efforts of the team, review work, incorporate feedback and remain committed to our client’s mission. Melissa is a graduate of Kent State University and the former Chair of the Cleveland Heights Architectural Board of Review.

Justin Fliegel AIA,

LEED AP

Associate Principal
Higher Education Studio Director

Justin is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of design experience. Justin is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination with staff and integration of client goals. He has extensive experience serving as the project management lead and construction administrator on a variety of education, healthcare, public and commercial projects. Justin functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He works collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise. His portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries.
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member
  • Comercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP) Member
  • American Institute of Architects (AIA) Cleveland Member
  • National Trust for Historic Preservation Member
jfliegel@vaakins.com
Justin is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of design experience. Justin is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination with staff and integration of client goals. He has extensive experience serving as the project management lead and construction administrator on a variety of education, healthcare, public and commercial projects. Justin functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He works collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise. His portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries.

jfliegel@vaakins.com

Associate Principal Justin G. Fliegel is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of project design experience. Justin is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination with staff and integration of client goals. Justin will work collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise. He is a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the American Institute of Architects, and is a graduate of Kent State University.

John P. Kaminski RA,
LEED AP BD+C

Associate Principal
Sports and Recreation Studio Director

Justin is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of design experience. Justin is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination with staff and integration of client goals. He has extensive experience serving as the project management lead and construction administrator on a variety of education, healthcare, public and commercial projects. Justin functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He works collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise. His portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries.
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member
  • Comercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP) Member
  • American Institute of Architects (AIA) Cleveland Member
  • National Trust for Historic Preservation Member
jfliegel@vaakins.com
Justin is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of design experience. Justin is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination with staff and integration of client goals. He has extensive experience serving as the project management lead and construction administrator on a variety of education, healthcare, public and commercial projects. Justin functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He works collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise. His portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries.

jfliegel@vaakins.com

Associate Principal John P. Kaminski is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of experience. John has vast experience working on a variety of complex project types, including sports and recreation facilities, hospitality and casinos, civic projects, commercial offices and K-12 schools. John is committed to creating successful and environmentally conscious projects by working collaboratively with all project team members to ensure the client’s goals are met. He takes pride in specializing in 3D rendering programs that bring the client’s vision to life before their project is built. He is a graduate of Kent State University and a member of the American Institute of Architects.

Holly A. Grambort RA,
LEED AP

Senior Project Manager
Zoological Studio Director

Justin is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of design experience. Justin is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination with staff and integration of client goals. He has extensive experience serving as the project management lead and construction administrator on a variety of education, healthcare, public and commercial projects. Justin functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He works collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise. His portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries.
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member
  • Comercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP) Member
  • American Institute of Architects (AIA) Cleveland Member
  • National Trust for Historic Preservation Member
jfliegel@vaakins.com
Justin is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of design experience. Justin is responsible for managing projects from conception through completion, including coordination with staff and integration of client goals. He has extensive experience serving as the project management lead and construction administrator on a variety of education, healthcare, public and commercial projects. Justin functions as the day-to-day contact to the owner and project team, and oversees all architectural and engineering efforts through construction administration. He works collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure the design intents are met and to resolve any issues that may arise. His portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries.

jfliegel@vaakins.com

Zoological Studio Director Holly A. Grambort is a Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional with over 20 years of project design experience. Her wide-ranging portfolio includes zoological exhibits, camp and nature projects, higher education facilities, K-12 schools, civic projects, healthcare facilities, and commercial offices. Holly works collaboratively with clients, consultants, and contractors to facilitate successful and sustainable outcomes. She is focused on ensuring our clients are listened to and their unique needs are met. Holly is a Registered Architect in Ohio and Michigan and is a graduate of Tulane University.New Paragraph

Jill Van Auken AIA

Founder

Jill Van Auken AIA is the Founder of VAA. With over 35 years of professional experience, Jill has facilitated projects in nearly every sector. Jill was recognized by the National Association of Women Business Owners as a Top Ten Business Owner, is a member of Smart Business’ Smart 50 Class of 2019, and was recently regarded as one of Greater Cleveland’s Most Influential Women by Cleveland.com. Jill is a member of the Greater Cleveland Partnership’s Air Service Demand Task Force, the former Treasurer of American Institute of Architects Cleveland, a current Cuyahoga County Harvest For Hunger Campaign Cabinet Member, the former Vice-Chair of Beaumont School’s Board of Directors, and a graduate of the University of Notre Dame.

As Principal and majority owner of VAA, Jill oversees all aspects of firm activities and is responsible for delivering exceptional design solutions and maintaining high quality service to clients. She brings over 30 years of project management and design expertise to the team, including architectural design, interior design, construction management, and planning for clients across a variety of market sectors, including non-profit, institutional, education, healthcare, commercial, public, industrial and retail. She has served in the roles of architect, construction manager and design consultant, and has a deep understanding of the interconnection between the design and construction process. Her portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries.
  • USGBC and USGBC NEO Chapter Member
  • Comercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP) Member
  • American Institute of Architects Past Treasurer
  • Beaumont School Past Board of Directors Vice Chair
  • Cuyahoga County Harvest for Hunger Campaign Cabinet Member 
jakins@vaakkins.com
As Principal and majority owner of VAA, Jill oversees all aspects of firm activities and is responsible for delivering exceptional design solutions and maintaining high quality service to clients. She brings over 30 years of project management and design expertise to the team, including architectural design, interior design, construction management, and planning for clients across a variety of market sectors, including non-profit, institutional, education, healthcare, commercial, public, industrial and retail. She has served in the roles of architect, construction manager and design consultant, and has a deep understanding of the interconnection between the design and construction process. Her portfolio of experience includes a combination of new construction, renovation, rehabilitation, interior improvements and assessment/master planning for clients across a variety of industries.

jakins@vaakkins.com
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