Team
We are an award-winning design firm with over 30 years of experience in the Resort, Hospitality, Entertainment, Commercial, and Residential design markets. We are both a local and international design firm servicing our clients on projects of all sizes, from east to west coast, with multiple projects overseas.
Andrew Allison
Founding Principal
AIA, LEED AP
Andrew Allison is the owner and principal of AJA Architecture and Planning and brings nearly 30 years of experience and design excellence to each project. With a keen eye for innovation and a commitment to sustainability, he integrates eco-friendly practices into his designs, creating spaces that not only meet aesthetic and functional criteria but also prioritize environmental responsibility. His experience in project management lends unique insight to the design and construction process; always searching for the solution that yields the best result. His personal commitment to his clients is the key to the firm’s culture, ensuring collaborative and client-focused approach that extends to the implementation of energy-efficient projects, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious built environment.
Sarah Haynes
Firm Associate
Sarah is an Associate who has been with the firm since its infancy. Her main role is the development of conceptual drawings into construction level documents. In addition to leading large teams on highly complex projects, she is skilled in the details of exhibit, graphic and interior design practices. She is a highly motivated individual who knows how to channel her creativity. Her experience in construction, project management and passion for historical preservation is enhanced with her strong design sense. She brings great ideas, organization and creativity to her projects and a welcome sense of what it takes to get projects built.
Chris Jones
Firm Associate
Chris’ main role as an Associate within the firm is the design and management of projects through completion. Bringing seven years of experience in the architecture and construction field he brings a unique eye to the process and works to find a creative solution. He has a diverse background in various craftsmanship proficiencies including; construction, fabrication, estimating, sculpture, and fine woodworking. He uses his construction skills to ground his designs. Along with design and management, he helps lead the CAD Drafting, 3D Modeling in CAD software, and 3D scanning for the office. His passion lies in the exploration of integrated structure and highly creative design, which in turn helps him find highly efficient design strategies.
Patrick Kniskern
Architectural Designer
Patrick Kniskern is an architectural designer and CAD manager here at AJA. He is always bringing creative ideas to the projects, constantly looking to improve the overall design. His attention to detail during the development of detailed drawings and 3D renderings accurately reflects the goals of each project and enhances our client’s ability to visualize their project through the design process. As a forward-thinking member of the team, he is always looking for new ways to build the vision into reality.
Addison Kelly
Graphic Designer
Addison brings a fresh take on social media presence, marketing, and business development, leveraging his multifaceted skills in film, photo, and graphic design. His creative expertise extends to exhibit design, where he excels in comprehensive research, graphic design, and the creation of compelling exhibit content and ideas. Addison’s unique blend of talents not only enhances our ability to document and convey our design portfolio through various media but also significantly contributes to our proficiency in developing engaging and visually captivating exhibit experiences.
Farideh Nazari
BIM Modeler
Farideh seamlessly integrates efficiency and proficiency into her work, embodying a powerhouse of productivity within our team. Her swift delivery of detailed drawings, renderings, and models, consistently surpasses expectations, often completing tasks ahead of schedule. A quick learner with a thirst for knowledge, Farideh stays at the forefront of our software advancements, demonstrating a relentless drive to evolve her skills and adapt to changes.
Connor McCormick
Designer
Connor is the newest addition to AJA Architecture and Planning, bringing a comprehensive skill set in architectural design and a strong technical background. Proficient in Autodesk Revit and Graphisoft Archicad, Connor leverages his expertise to deliver innovative and efficient design solutions. Connor’s diverse educational background and design approach make him an asset to our team, contributing fresh perspectives to our projects.
Want to Join Our Team?
We are looking for young, creative individuals who want to develop into well-rounded architects, engineers, and designers. We immerse our young staff into all facets of projects, from design and engineering to client meetings and working with contractors during construction, providing a great platform for those working on licensure. In 2018, AJA Architecture and Planning received the Firms Fostering Emerging Professionals Award, given by AIA New York State.
If you’re passionate about the impact of architecture on people’s lives and aspire to enhance your skills for the betterment of communities, and the environment, we encourage you to connect with us. Our team is committed to supporting your journey towards achieving those goals.
Interested candidates should submit their resume and samples of work. Please take the time to write a short cover letter telling us about yourself, your interest in the profession, and what inspired your interest in architectural engineering. Please send all materials to hello@ajaarchitecture.com > in PDF form.