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.

Ann Marie Avellino

Director of Finance

Ann Marie is a seasoned financial expert with over 30 years professional experience in managing overall corporate finances, in Fortune 500 as well as small to mid-size companies. At CORE, she establishes working relationships based upon respect, encouragement, and trust. She is responsible for all corporate finances, human resources, and facility management.

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.

Ayelet Masica

Ayelet has a passion for designing spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional. With over a decade of experience in hospitality design, she excels in creating spaces that not only reflect the brand’s identity but also exceed expectations through smart and impactful design. Her portfolio spans a wide range of work, from fine dining and fast-casual restaurants to cruise ship food halls as well as prototype concept design. Throughout her career, Ayelet has honed a keen ability to translate her clients’ visions into environments that are inviting, efficient, and memorable. She earned a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science in Communication and Media Studies from Goucher College.

Daniel Farji

Daniel has worked on various project types, ranging from transportation and historical preservation to high-end residential developments. He joined CORE after graduating from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Design in Architecture and a minor in Urban and Regional Planning. He also received a Master of Architecture with a concentration in Sustainability from the University of Florida. His graduate thesis focused on an urban multimodal transit hub which reflects his passion for transportation and public infrastructure. Daniel is well-traveled and enjoys photography. He is currently pursuing architectural licensure.

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.

Daniel Mayo, RA

Daniel demonstrates a diverse background in architecture with a wide portfolio that includes commercial buildings, corporate interiors, multifamily residential and restaurant design projects. He has a broad skillset bringing alternative perspectives and a focus to detail. He has an interest in industrial design and in international architecture, studying extensively in Italy and Finland. Daniel has participated in global competitions, exercising his passion for design. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, and a Master of Architecture with a concentration in Sacred Space and Cultural Studies from the Catholic University of America. Daniel is a licensed architect in Washington DC and is NCARB certified.

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.

Gavin Walsh

At CORE, Gavin has primarily worked on commercial and mixed-use design projects. He also has prior experience working in residential architecture. Gavin received a Master of Architecture degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture with a minor in Landscape Architecture from the Ohio State University. He is currently pursuing architectural licensure.

Jaida Tavares

Jaida has an eye for design and form that translates thoughtfully into every project she is a part of. She brings her multicultural background into her designs to experiment and collaborate on projects that results in something extraordinary. Her portfolio spans from fine dining and casual eateries to protype concept designs and upscale retail boutiques as well as hotel design. Jaida collaborates effectively with clients, transforming their ideas into spaces that leave a meaningful impression. She graduated from Marymount University with a Bachelor of Interior Design.

Kassandra Bishop

Kassandra's passion in art and design is inspired by the joy of making people feel encouraged. She has worked on a variety of projects including, high-end residential, retail, commercial, and restaurant projects. Kassandra brings a detailed artistic touch to the projects that she works on and is creatively fueled by the desire to leave the client invigorated. The transformation of an interior space, its relation to human behavior and the modern-day lifestyle, is what excites her the most. 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.

Lina Afzal

Lina is creatively fueled by the desire to leave the client inspired by bringing a detailed artistic touch to every project, infusing them with a meticulous and creative flair. Her approach to hospitality design is driven by inquiry and experimentation. She has partnered on a diverse array of projects, spanning from upscale dining establishments and casual eateries to renovations and comprehensive master planning. Lina collaborates effectively with clients, exploring possibilities together with them to transform their ideas into spaces that are both memorable and thoughtful. She graduated from Marymount University with a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design and is currently pursuing her interior design licensure.

Michael Borissow

Michael is a versatile designer whose portfolio spans hospitality, commercial interiors, multifamily residential, and master planning work. He thrives at the intersection of design vision and technical execution, bringing a holistic mindset to each project. Equally skilled in big-picture thinking and detail refinement, Michael is known for his ability to navigate design challenges with agility and purpose. A natural problem-solver and collaborator, he partners closely with clients and consultants to develop thoughtful, responsive solutions that maximize a project’s potential from concept through completion. Michael received a Bachelor of Architecture from Philadelphia University. He is a well-traveled, multilingual individual, whose unique perspective adds great value to CORE’s versatile team.

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.

Mira Tabbalat

Mira brings a multifaceted perspective to architectural design, shaped by her experience with public safety, education, and cultural projects in both the U.S. and abroad. She holds a Master of Architecture and Community Design from the University of South Florida, where she also taught at the graduate level. Deepening her global design outlook, Mira was part of a design competition team in Germany, where she contributed to projects of varying types and scales. Her approach is rooted in exploration and experimentation, thoughtfully weaving art, philosophy, and storytelling into the built environment to create spaces that are not only functional but also experience focused and deeply contextual.

Savanna Wilkinson

Savanna brings to CORE an array of work experience in healthcare, residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. She is passionate about blending architecture with other creative outlets like graphic design, photography, and writing. She has a keen interest in urban design and landscape design as these disciplines help to contextually understand spaces and experiences. Savanna received a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Drury University. She is currently pursing architectural licensure.

Zoë Nystrom

With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry as a sommelier and restaurant manager, Zoë brings extensive expertise to CORE. She pursued hospitality design as an extension of her career, a passion fueled by exploring the growing local restaurant scene. She understands the intricate relationship between design and guest satisfaction, seeking innovative solutions to enhance user experiences. Zoë has a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science in Intercultural Communications from Pepperdine University. She is currently pursuing her NCIDQ certification.