SEATTLE – June 20, 2016 – Runberg Architecture Group, a Seattle-based firm specializing in urban mixed-use, housing and adaptive reuse projects, announced today the promotion of Melissa Wechsler, AIA, LEED® AP, to partner.
Wechsler joins founder Brian Runberg, AIA, and Michele Wang, AIA, LEED® AP BD+C, as the firm’s third partner.
“Over the last decade, Melissa’s design vision and project management expertise have played a significant role in bolstering our reputation for designing some of the most high-performing mixed-use urban buildings,” said Runberg. “Her focus on livability, sustainability and contextual sensitivity embodies our firm’s philosophy and is brought to life on each project.”
Wechsler is currently the project manager for Block 47, a boutique apartment building at the corner of Ninth Avenue and John Street, across from the Olmstead Brothers’ Denny Park. She is also collaborating with Graphite Design Group on the design of two residential towers above Google’s future offices in South Lake Union.
“Runberg prides itself on designing buildings that are not only visually attractive but are sustainable and contribute to community growth as well,” said Wechsler. “I feel extremely fortunate to grow with a firm that shares my passion for urban design that embraces livability while remaining sensitive to the surrounding neighborhood.
Previously, Wechsler was project manager for the recently completed 8th + Republican, an 8-story apartment building designed in collaboration with The Miller | Hull Partnership. She was also the project manager of the award-winning Stack House Apartments and historic Supply Laundry Building renovation.
“We have enjoyed working with Melissa as the design lead on several Vulcan developments and know her as a strong team leader and a collaborative design innovator with a firm grasp of the technical side of design,” said Scott Mathews, senior director, acquisitions, for Vulcan Inc.
Prior to joining Runberg Architecture Group in 2006, Wechsler worked as a project architect and designer with Borrelli + Partners in Miami and taught architectural design as an adjunct professor at Miami Dade College.
Wechsler earned a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Washington and she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Vassar College. Wechsler is an active member of the American Institute of Architects Seattle chapter and frequently serves as a guest critic at the University of Washington’s architecture design studios.
About Runberg Architecture Group
Since its founding in 1998, Runberg Architecture Group has earned a name for thoughtful architectural design that balances the unique social, economic and environmental interests of each project. Runberg designs sustainable mixed-use urban environments where people want to be – vibrant, engaging places that create high and enduring value for its clients and communities. The firm understands that quality of life is highest in places where social, economic and environmental interests are in harmony. Runberg’s mission is to design places that achieve this harmony for its clients and communities by honoring the distinct needs and opportunities of each project.
