Daniele Mannucci

Associate Principal

Daniele grew up in Uruguay, South America competing in mock design competitions against his budding architect brother and presenting to the “jury”–his architect father. These early lessons in architecture and design led to the development of his unique and realistic graphic style, which won AIA’s General Excellence in Architecture award. Today, Daniele utilizes both computer and hand sketch methods to explore designs that offer clients exceptional and economical solutions.

Otniel Tigu

LEED AP BD+C , Associate Principal

Otniel was inspired to explore the field of architecture after discovering his unique artistic talent, mathematical precision and affinity for detail at a young age. Encouragement from family and friends led him to study architecture in college, where he further advanced his design skills. He has since developed extensive graphic rendering methods to help WHA clients visualize a wide range of design solutions through realistic, 3D software. These methods have helped him design beautiful spaces for end-users to ultimately work, play, and rest in.

Otniel believes that having a clear purpose and balanced visual appeal leads to equally attractive and functional spaces. He uses this approach every day in his own work to ensure that the aesthetics, as important as they are, do not obscure the space’s main purpose. He’s seen this method come to life through the work of architects Santiago Calatrava and Renzo Piano, who both celebrate aesthetics without compromising the building’s true purpose.

Scott Rubel

AIA, Technical Director, Associate Principal

Scott became interested in architecture at a young age by watching his father, an architect, work from their home office. He started by using a Crayola drafting set at a young age, transitioned to mechanical drafting and architecture in high school, and later won second prize in the student category for a beach house design competition in Michigan City, Indiana. Scott’s interest in the field led him to join his father’s own firm as an intern, where he earned his architect’s license and quickly developed a sharp set of technical skills.

Today, architecture continues to satisfy his passion for working out details and seeing them come together in the field. As a Technical Architect, Scott strives to incorporate all facets of architecture, interior design and constructability into each project while maintaining the original design intent. This approach was evident in his recent contribution to A.J. Gallagher’s 315,000 SF corporate headquarters redevelopment in Rolling Meadows, IL.

Aaron Coon

LEED AP, Architect, Associate

Aaron holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he won two first-place design awards and received honorable mention for three design studio projects. Following graduation, he was recognized as the winner of an architectural competition to redesign the entry stairwells for a community housing project in Peoria, Illinois.

Today, Aaron approaches the architectural process by taking on each project in a way that best serves the client’s goals. He seeks out opportunities to creatively and thoughtfully design outside the box, and solves design challenges by offering program-driven solutions that ultimately exceed client expectations. Outside the office, Aaron is an active member of the Design Commission for the Village of Arlington Heights, where he has resided for nearly 15 years.

Ellen Lieder

IIDA LEED GA, Interior Designer, Associate

Ellen is a Registered Interior Designer, LEED GA accredited, a professional member of IIDA, and specializes in designing corporate interiors. She received a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Western Michigan University.

Ellen’s interest in channeling creativity into functional, beautifully designed spaces led her to a career in interior design. Her favorite piece of local architecture is Tribune Tower, and one of her favorites from Michigan, her home state, is the Eli and Edyth Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University. Her appreciation for design extends into her home life as well. Ellen enjoys following IIDA Illinois on Instagram and loves her Eames Molded Plastic Armchair for its timeless aesthetic and functionality.

Luke Heerema

Director of Business Development, Associate

Laurel Sieber

Project Manager, Associate

As a Project Manager and Licensed Architect, Laurel blends a unique combination of design sensibility, technical capabilities, and client focus. Laurel has extensive experience in all phases of the design process and will be involved from start to finish on the project. As project manager, she will lead the integrated design team and consultant coordination efforts. Her focus will be on ensuring that the client’s needs are kept at top of mind throughout the design process and that a successful project is delivered in a timley and efficient manner.