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Rafael Da Silva, AIA, LEEDAP

Rafael Da Silva, AIA, LEEDAP

Wanamassa, NJ, US

 

About 

I spent the last six years building an integrated design-build firm.  Paramount in our process was the goal of improving the lives of our clients through good design.  I helped guide each client in making all of the necessary choices so that, in the end, their building fit them perfectly.  I employed this hands-on approach with both residential and commercial clients where profitability was a major part of the puzzle.  As a result, the project goals were achieved while also enjoying the process.

In addition, my experience includes the design and management of commercial, healthcare, municipal, office, retail and production residential projects.  My strengths include my ability to adapt and manage various project types simultaneously and my attention to detail.  I have always believed that teamwork, good communication and proper planning are the keys to a successful project.  In addition to guiding my clients through the complex construction process, a large portion of my time was spent coordinating with various consultants, vendors and subcontractors as well as my own employees. 

Employment 

Parallel Architectural Group, Long Branch, NJ, US, Partner

• Founded both companies to provide integrated high quality Architect-led design-build services.
• Lead Designer on projects with responsibilities including programming, site design, schematic design, design development, detailing, material selections, interior design, and coordination with consultants and estimator on projects ranging from $20,000 to $800,000.
• Responsible for helping clients with all material selections including exterior finishes/colors, interior finishes/colors, cabinetry, plumbing fixtures, and electrical fixtures.
• Provided testimony at Zoning/Planning Board meetings.
• Coordinated preparation of construction documents by staff members and consultants.
• Review building codes/zoning regulations to ensure compliance with State and local regulations.
• Provided construction administration services including bid review, conducting job meetings, preparing meeting minutes, reviewing and tracking shop drawings and submittals, responding to requests for information, and reviewing and preparing punch lists.
• Responsible for Networking/Marketing to find new clients and preparation of proposals.
• Responsible for Finances including preparation of yearly budget averaging over $1 million gross billings, invoicing and collection, receipt and payment of bills, employee payroll, payroll tax payments, and coordination with Accountant.
• Responsible for human resources for average staff of 10 employees including management of insurance policies, employee relations and mentoring of Interns.

Jul 2005 - current
 

WML Architecture, West Long Branch, NJ, US, Project Architect

• Responsible for scheduling projects and managing staff of four employees.
• Managed projects of various sizes from design through construction administration.
• Managed the production of construction documents and specifications including the coordination of work by consultants. Reviewed work to ensure compliance with building codes and zoning regulations.

Jan 2005 - Jul 2005
 

Sonnenfeld + Trocchia Architects, Holmdel, NJ, US, Project Architect

• Managed projects ranging from $20,000 to $6,000,000 from design through construction administration for public and private clients.
• Design/selection of materials and presentation to building committees of public and private clients.
• Managed the production of construction documents and specifications including the coordination of work by consultants. Reviewed work to ensure compliance with building codes and zoning regulations.
• Conducted field surveys and oversaw the preparation of as-built drawings.
• Created and maintained the firm’s portfolio and marketing materials.

Jun 1999 - Jan 2005
 

Education 

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Newark, NJ, US, BArch, Architecture

Sep 1994 - May 1999
 

Awards 

2008 AIA Jersey Shore Young Architect of the Year, 1st Place

2008
 

2008 AIA New Jersey Young Architect of the Year, 1st Place

2008
 

2007 AIA Jersey Shore Firm of the Year, 1st Place

2007