David Cheney, AIA

Partner

With a strong background in institutional and building architecture projects coupled with the expertise to deliver complex design solutions that marry the interior and streetscape, David possesses the knowledge, skills, and management ability required to create successful projects. With 35 years of experience, his design skills and technical knowledge of innovative construction materials, value engineering, construction methods and architectural standards, bring a high level of competency and expertise to CORE. David works to meet the overall project goals with careful management of the project team and schedules. He has a Bachelor of Architecture, Cum Laude, from Norwich University. He is licensed in fifteen states and is NCARB certified.

Christina Schlecht

Director of Marketing and Business Development

Christina has 20 years of experience in leadership and management positions in the professional services, publishing, education, and entertainment industries. At CORE, Christina leads the development of marketing and communications plans and orchestrates a strategic approach to business development, generating company growth. She guides the production of effective lead generation and retention programs and oversees the activation of multi-channel campaigns and interactive digital platforms, improving conversion and client acquisition rates. Christina earned her MBA from Columbia Business School, New York and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany. She spent one semester as a Visiting Scholar at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.

Christopher Peli

Principal

Christopher brings a hospitality-focused lens to every project he undertakes. Ranging from interior and urban design to renovation and new construction, his work reflects a commitment to creating environments that elevate the user experience through thoughtful attention to flow, comfort, and atmosphere. With extensive experience in renovations, Christopher combines a refined design sensibility with a pragmatic mindset. A collaborative and inventive leader, he is known for unifying diverse stakeholders around a shared vision and guiding teams through tight timelines and budget constraints to deliver spaces that are as functional as they are inspiring.

Dean Hutchison, AIA

Principal

Dean works on a wide range of project types at CORE, from base building office to multifamily residential and institutional buildings as well as retail tenant fit-outs. He excels in all phases of projects, from design to construction administration and goes out of his way to establish strong relationships with those involved. Dean has a Master of Architecture from Catholic University of America and a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Central Florida.

Marie Vogt

Principal

Marie is highly valued for her leadership success in directing complex projects with a high level of design innovation and technical experience in both base building and interior architecture. As a team manager and project architect, she has been responsible for structuring project teams and fees, project schedules, consultant coordination, and project design and delivery. She is a highly effective communicator with clients, consultants and contractors and is quickly adaptive to changing project priorities. Her wide range of experience in work place interiors, multi-family residential, large scale government projects and design build projects has given her keen insight and a holistic approach to project process and delivery.

Daniel Kalinowski, AIA

Daniel’s expertise includes commercial and multifamily residential developments, corporate interiors and renovations, and restaurant design. He specializes in designing and executing custom millwork and lighting solutions and his attention to detail helps bring a level of excellence to the finished products. Daniel’s thoughtful approach enables him to deliver creative spaces that offer an immersive experience and cater to the client’s and user’s needs. He excels at designing both artful and structured spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional. Daniel has established a strong background in innovative design environments that enhance both team collaboration and individual productivity and satisfaction.

Deandra Smith

Deandra joined CORE after graduating from Rice University with a Master of Architecture. She obtained a Bachelor of Design in Architecture, and a minor in video game animation, from the University of Florida, where she served as a Teaching Assistant. She educated students about architectural precedents and helped them analyze the influence of historical and cultural practices on design decision-making. Deandra is passionate about photography, traveling, sustainability, and learning about the built environment. She is currently pursuing architectural licensure.

Kassandra Bishop

Kassandra Bishop is a Senior Designer with a passion for crafting interiors that tell a story. She approaches each project with equal parts creativity and precision, designing spaces that feel as good as they look—effortless, inviting, and memorable. Her work spans fine dining restaurants, boutique hospitality, high-end residences, and scalable food and beverage concepts for leading hotel brands. Known for her hands-on style, Kassandra is deeply involved from concept through completion, ensuring every detail serves both beauty and purpose. She believes that well-designed environments inspire connection, spark curiosity, and leave a lasting impression long after guests walk away. Kassandra graduated with a Master of Science in Interior Architecture and Design from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (concentration in Studio Art) from Bowie State University.

Malia Marantan

Malia brings an interdisciplinary perspective to architecture, grounded in a deep passion for historical and cultural design practices. With expertise spanning from conceptual development to operational execution, she offers a thoughtful and refined approach that enriches a diverse range of projects. A graduate of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Malia holds a Bachelor of Architecture with a minor in Art History. Her creativity extends beyond architecture through her love of photography and travel, which inspire her design sensibility. As she embarks on her career at CORE, Malia is eager to contribute her distinctive viewpoint to the team while pursuing her architectural licensure.

Michelle Finch

Michelle has previously worked on residential development and hospitality projects in Thailand, where she was born and raised, before joining CORE. She obtained a Bachelor of Architecture and minors in Sustainable Design and Architectural Entrepreneurship from Oklahoma State University. During her free time, she enjoys baking and film photography. Michelle is excited to join CORE and begin her career while currently pursuing her architectural licensure.

Savanna Wilkinson

Savanna brings diverse experience across residential, commercial, and hospitality projects, contributing a thoughtful and multidisciplinary perspective to CORE’s design team. Drawing inspiration from graphic design, photography, and writing, she approaches design as both an artistic and functional practice to create environments that are intentional, responsive, and enduring. Her interest in urban and landscape design informs a holistic approach that considers how spaces connect to their context, support human experience, and contribute to the surrounding community. Savanna is currently pursuing architectural licensure and continues to expand her expertise through collaborative practice and professional development.