Archinect
Kathleen O'Donnell

Kathleen O'Donnell

New York, NY, US

 

About 

As a licensed Architect my passion is centered around

creating innovative projects that address social and environmental challenges
in marginalized communities. My work focuses on collaborating with community
partners, developing design concepts, and crafting impactful solutions across
various sectors.

Employment 

Learning Lions LLC, Lodwar, Kenya, Lead Architect

• Led several civic and institutional projects from concept to construction administration.
• Developed design studies and solutions for affordable housing, community healthcare, and educational projects
• Partnered with community organizations to gather data from engagement events, which informed the development of design concepts for building projects
• Performed structural calculations and detailed cost estimations to maximize project success.
• Adapted design and details on-site due to budget and site complications.
• Assisted in construction administration and interior design alongside Kéré Architecture.
• Supported and led the production of a feasibility study for a project exploring innovative design approaches

Sep 2020 - current
 

Gensler, New York, NY, US, Architect

• Dedicated leader and problem solver on large to small-scale retail BIM projects in Revit.
• Seamlessly managed team work across the firm’s border-less studio to ensure that designs continue to push the boundaries of impact, innovation, and experience.
• Trusted advisor building secure client relationships and delivering projects with signature quality.
• Lead collaboration of project team with related disciplines and managed expectations with client team providing clear feedback
• Prepared drawings and renderings for schematic design, design development, and approval submissions on a wide range of small to large scale projects
• Main point of contact during CA processes and on-site observations/verifications.
• Participated in code review and identify problematic site conditions to resolve special code conditions.

Oct 2021 - Jun 2023
 

NELSON, New York, NY, US, Technical Designer II

• Assisted in the design of office schematics and interior finishes.
• Led construction document production and administration in field.
• Produced zoning applications, building code reviews, and bid packages.
• Participated with project management and client teams on site and throughout the CA process, performing punch lists, site observations, and verifications.
• Prepared drawings, details, and renderings from design development to construction administration

Aug 2018 - Aug 2020
 

Martin Architectural Group, Philadelphia, PA, US, Assistant Project Manager

• Contributed to the design of single-family and multi-family housing.
• Assisted document production on 500,000 sq. ft. mixed-use apartments.
• Generated design study documents and alternative solutions to promote discussion and collaborative problem-solving.
• Prepared drawings and details for construction documentation and design studies

Jun 2016 - Aug 2018
 

BRR Architecture, Philadelphia, PA, US, Architecture Intern

• Managed project delivery and document set of over 50 leading retailers, ranging from 1,000-250,000 sq. ft.
• Created 3D models in Revit of new and existing buildings for improved project visualization and planning.
• Led coordination meetings between projects consultants.
• Lead coordination and engagement with specifications team.
• Directed and ensured QA/QC process

Sep 2013 - Jun 2016
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills