SK+I is a multidisciplinary design practice committed to creating a resilient future through urban residential architecture. Founded 25 years ago, the award-winning studio has designed and built more than 120 mixed-use projects—housing 30,000-plus residential units and two million square feet of retail—in the Washington, DC metro area and beyond. Our expertise—and passion—is innovative, community-centered contemporary architecture and urban design that is built to last.
We are dedicated to designing contemporary, urban, mixed-use residential architecture that responds to and anticipates the challenges of how we live through buildings that represent a variety of scales, residential typologies, and sustainable design strategies. In cities today, housing matters more than ever, and our steady commitment to durable, high-performance residential architecture—and its capacity to create community—remains our singular goal.
We are deeply committed to timeless, sustainable, responsive interiors with a passion for excellence in detail and craftsmanship. Our acclaimed interiors choreograph residential and amenity spaces to be an integrated, mindful part of our everyday life and support how we want to live, work, and connect.
The city offers the greatest opportunity for a prosperous, sustainable, and resilient future. We understand that our buildings and neighborhoods play a vital role in a larger public realm of streets, open spaces, and shared networks. As urbanists, we design for and reflect the urban sensibilities of the neighborhoods where we build through a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of contemporary urban life. Our work seeks to foster a sense of community and deliver the promise and power of the city to its inhabitants.
Sami Kirkdil, FAIA, NCARB, is a Founding Partner and President of SK+I, establishing the company in 1999. In the subsequent 25 years, SK+I has become a nationally recognized leader in urban residential design. Mr. Kirkdil’s work is known for thoughtful innovation and market savviness that has established them as an industry leader in multifamily residential and mixed-use projects that are ultimately realized.
Education: M.Arch, Catholic University of America
B.Arch, Istanbul State Academy of Fine Arts
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
Meral Iskir, FAIA, co-founded SK+I in 1999. Recognizing her five decades of practice experience, in 2019 she received the Joseph Miller Award from Catholic University, bestowed on leaders who have made notable contributions to the architectural profession, the University, and the larger community. Ms. Iskir is retired from active participation in the work of the firm but maintains an advisory role.
Education: M.Arch, Catholic University of America
B.Arch, Istanbul Technical University
Professional Affiliations: AIA DC Fellowship Committee (AIA DC), Member
Certifications: Certified Construction Document Technologist (CDT)
Jon Wallenmeyer, AIA, has 30 years of professional experience in the real estate, development, and architecture fields and joined SK+I in 2009. A veteran of the real estate development industry, Mr Wallenmeyer offers a client’s perspective on the design, entitlement, and construction processes. He is instrumental in the ability of the firm to forge relationships and build and maintain a strong base of repeat clients.
Education: B.Arch, University of Maryland
Certifications: Construction Documents Technologist (CDT)
National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
Dr. Abed Benzina, has more than 40 years of experience in urban and multi-family design. He joined SK+I soon after its founding in 2000.
Dr. Benzina possesses a well-grounded understanding of the relationship between urban design, architectural design, and technical requirements. With an in-depth knowledge of building and jurisdictional codes, he is a key asset in meeting entitlement requirements and client goals and serves as a resource for project architects in the firm.
Education: D.Arch, The Catholic University of America
M.Arch and Urban Design, Washington University in St. Louis
Diplome d’ Architecture,
Ecole Polytechnique d’ Architecture et d’ Urbanisme d’ Alger
Professional Affiliations: City of Alexandria, Beauregard Design Review Committee, Member
Marius Radulescu, AIA, has over 20 years of experience ranging from the mixed-use residential, commercial, hospitality, institutional, and transportation sectors. He joined SK+I in 2004.
His passion for design and ability to deliver attractive buildings and places, allow him to bring a client’s vision to reality. His authentic passion for mixed-use environments extends from an enjoyment of the wealth of urban life and informs his work creating those places that enrich people’s lives.
Education: B.Arch, Pratt Institute
Guclu Durusoy, AIA, joined SK+I in 2001 and has over 25 years of experience in the design and construction of mid to high-rise multi-family, mixed-use projects. As the Managing Principal he is responsible for day to day operations and delivery of high profile projects in the office. His attention to detail, ability to manage complicated large-scale projects, understanding of building elements and systems, and experience throughout all stages of design-documentation make him a successful project team leader.
Education: M.Arch, Savannah College of Art and Design
B.Arch, Savannah College of Art and Design
Toygun Mar joined SK+I in spring of 2013 and has over 20 years of international experience in the planning and design of large-scale, mixed-use projects.
Mr. Mar builds a strong rapport with the development team and maintains a repeat client base by providing value with excellent drawings and outstanding service. He is adept at establishing a solid connection with contractors, engineers, building officials, property managers, leasing agents, and the end-user.
Education: M.Arch, Morgan State University
B.Arch, Yildiz Technical University
Professional Affiliations: Urban Land Institute (ULI), Washington Housing Council, Member
Certifications: LEED Accredited Professional, Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
Robert Goodill possesses over 30 years of experience in walkable planning and urban design, joining SK+I in early 2021. A proponent of walkable, mixed-use urbanism, his work includes neighborhood revitalization, sprawl repair, and transit-oriented developments that are vibrant, inclusive, and implementable. His work with private and public/private clients focuses on the reciprocal relationship between building programs and the public realm of streets and open spaces.
Education: M.Arch in Urban Design, Cornell University
B.Arch, Notre Dame University
Professional Affiliations: Congress of the New Urbanism, Member
Urban Land Institute, Member
Andy Czajkowski has 25 years of experience in planning and design of complex, multi-stakeholder, urban infill, adaptive reuse, and suburban reinvention projects. He joined SK+I in 2016.
Mr. Czajkowski carefully considers each project context to maximize the positive effects on the community. He has a good track record of pairing creative problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate complex design and zoning challenges to realize client and community goals.
Education: B.Arch, University of Notre Dame
Certifications: Construction Documents Technologist (CDT)
National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
Brian Dayhoff joined SK+I in 2014 and possesses over 30 years of experience in all project delivery phases of multifamily mixed-use projects, including low-rise, mid-rise and high-rise buildings. He develops effective, efficient working relationships with General Contractors, Construction Managers, Design Team, and Client Team members. Mr. Dayhoff assists clients and contractors to analyze options for resolving unforeseen conditions during construction, leading to the successful completion of projects.
Education: M.Arch, The University of Maryland
B.Arch, The University of Maryland
Certifications: Construction Document Technologist (CDT)
LEED Accredited Professional, Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
Marty Towles joined SK+I in 1999 and is the Technical Director responsible for the quality and consistency of design detailing in the drawing sets done in the office. He brings with him almost 30 years of experience disseminating information and quality control.
Mr. Towles works intimately with teams and disseminates information through a series of workshops that focus on aspects of construction documentation, detailing, quality control, and lessons learned.
Education: B.Arch, University of Maryland
With 20 years of experience, Alejandra Colsa has brought leadership and new life to the Interior Design practice, joining in 2020. She is particularly passionate about the many ways the design of the interior environment can improve people’s lives. This enthusiasm extends to the developing world with an interest in understanding how simply and authentically quality of life can be improved through architecture.
Education: M.Arch, Polytechnic University of Madrid
B.Arch, Ibero-American University
Holly Leonard has been Controller at SK+I since 2011. She oversees the accounting for clients, consultants, and employees, assists in the coordination of project schedules, and manages the recording of office productivity. Ms. Leonard works closely with the firm leadership in all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting. In addition, she oversees the IT staff and network computer systems to ensure the firm remains current with software and operating systems.
Education: M.S. in Taxation, Bentley College
B.S. in Business and Management, University of Maryland
Valerie Hochman joined SK+I at its founding in 1999 and has 25 years of experience ranging from wood frame single-family homes to concrete high rise condominiums. With an intimate knowledge of the requirements of residential planning, Ms. Hochman is instrumental in the design and delivery of successful projects. She works out the challenges inherent in the design of innovative housing typologies to create apartment units that are comfortable and livable to residents.
Education: M.Arch, Tulane University
B.Arch, Tulane University
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
Chris Huffer joined SK+I in 2011 and has over 13 years’ experience working on complex mixed-use projects where he seems to effortlessly generate workable and creative design solutions.
Mr. Huffer has developed an in- depth knowledge of the entitlement process in DC and Alexandria and has become instrumental in design development and coordination of high and mid-rise, multi-family, mixed-use residential projects in these jurisdictions.
Education: B.Arch, University of Notre Dame
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
Jeremy Arnold has 20 years’ experience in the design and management of mixed-use projects in the Washington, D.C. area. He joined SK+I in 2018 and has been instrumental in delivering award-winning, mixed-use multifamily projects that impact the lives of the residents and the surrounding communities.
Mr. Arnold is a valued project leader who has acquired the experience and perspective to be able to successfully oversee projects from initial meeting to project completion.
Education: M.Arch, University of Maryland
B.S. in Architecture, University of Maryland
Certifications: LEED Accredited Professional, Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
Virginia Carnrick Joined SK+I in 2002 and has over 22 years’ experience managing and coordinating all aspects of projects. She is particularly adept collaborating with engineers and other consultants to maintain the integrity of the design and ensure that each project remains on schedule and within budget. Her passion, teamwork, and attention to detail allows her to meet challenges and find sound, workable solutions.
Education: M.Arch, Catholic University of America
B.S.Arch, Catholic University of America
Tony Jin has over 15 years’ experience preparing highly technical schematic design and construction documents and providing construction administration services. He joined SK+I in 2004.
As a valued Project Architect, Mr. Jin coordinates complicated drawing sets with structural, civil, MEP engineers, as well as other consultants to ensure that the design intent is realized and the drawings align within each discipline.
Education: M.S. in Real Estate Development, New York University
B.A.Arch, Tsinghua University
Certifications: Construction Document Technologist (CDT)
LEED Accredited Professional, Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
Eda Kaya joined SK+I in 2002 and has more than 20 years of experience working on large-scale, mixed-use residential design from conception through to construction administration.
Ms. Kaya possesses a keen attention to detail with an in-depth knowledge of the project schedule and budgetary concerns. She is adept at navigating the requirements of building codes and green building design to deliver exceptional design solutions that are responsive to client aspirations and goals.
Education: M.S. in Construction Management, Istanbul Technical University
B.Arch, Yildiz Technical University
Professional Affiliations: United States Green Building Council (USGBC), Member
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
LEED Accredited Professional, Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
Lisa Newsome joined SK+I in 2016. She has ten years of experience in multifamily, mixed-use design. She is a valuable Project Manager, Project Architect, and team leader who has been an integral part of many successful projects.
Ms. Newsome actively participates in civic forums focused on sustainability and resiliency, looking into on the impact the built environment has on its future inhabitants.
Education: M.Arch, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
B.S. in Sociology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Professional Affiliations: Women in Architecture (WIA)
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
Larney Reed joined SK+I in 2013. He has 18 years of experience managing several large-scale, mixed-use, and master planning projects from Texas to Washington, DC. His prompt and excellent service has allowed him to develop and maintain a solid, repeat client base. He is particularly adept at establishing a rapport with contractors, subcontractors, engineers, building officials, property, facilities managers, in the service of creating high functioning teams.
Education: M.Arch, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
B.S.Arch, University of Virginia
Professional Affiliations: Association for Preservation Technology (APT), Member
Tatiana Bendeck joined SK+I in 2019 and possesses more than 15 years of experience in architecture, interior design, and planning with a focus on mixed‐use, transit‐oriented development. As an urbanist, she is passionate about creating sustainable, integrated live‐work‐play‐learn environments. With a combination of managerial and technical expertise, business leadership, and project delivery experience, Ms. Bendeck is a versatile designer and project manager adept at developing strong relationships with new and existing clients.
Education: M.Arch, Catholic University of America
B.S.Arch, Catholic University of America
Professional Affiliations: Urban Land Institute (ULI), Regional Land Use Leadership Institute, Member
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)
Yavuz Goncu has a diverse background in architecture, graphics, motion picture design, and project management with over 20 years of experience. He joined SK+I in 2021 and immediately made an impact with his excellent design and visualization skills. Very talented and committed, he has been an instrumental designer in the successful architectural visioning of a number of urban revitalizations in Baltimore, Washington, DC, Raleigh, Charlotte, and Nashville, TN.
Education: B.Arch, Carnegie Mellon University
With over ten years of experience in the mixed-use multifamily industry, Mr. Greenwood has emerged as a versatile leader and designer who strives to incorporate innovation and sustainable practices in his projects. A strong team player, he uses his varied experience managing project teams of design and construction professionals, project consultants, and code officials to meet client goals while completing creative and highly successful projects.
Education: M.Arch, Louisiana State University
B.Arch, cum laude - University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
Tim Laubacker joined SK+I in 2015. In his almost 8 years of experience he has proven to be a strong leader advancing sustainable design strategies, critical thinking, and master planning. Mr. Laubacker’s commitment to quality design and an integrated delivery process contributes to the success of the mixed-use projects he is involved with, including affordable housing. He is received the prestigious AIAPV Emerging Professional Award in 2022.
Education: M.Arch Urban Design, Catholic University of America
M.S. Sustainable Design, Catholic University of America
B.Arch, Catholic University of America
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
Erin McNamara brings nearly 20 years of experience to SK+I, with a background that includes interior and exterior detailing and interdisciplinary project coordination and management. A recent addition to SK+I, joining in 2021, she has made an immediate impact successfully working through the many aspects of project management; helping clients to meet their development goals, maintaining the design intent, and coordinating and integrating building elements and systems to arrive at the best possible outcome.
Education: M.Arch Planning and Preservation, University of Maryland
Marisa Rodriguez joined SK+I in early 2019 and brings 15+ years of experience to her design, documentation, management, and construction administration efforts.
As a Project Manager or Project Architect, Ms. Rodriguez is energetic and passionate about building teamwork and relationships. She facilitates the collaboration and communication between the individual members of the design team to enhance a project and achieve the best possible outcome.
Education: M.Arch, Concentrating in Urban Practices, Catholic University of America
B.S.Arch, Catholic University of America
Certifications: National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB)
LEED Accredited Professional, Building Design and Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
Josh Sliffman possesses almost 20 years of experience in the architecture and construction industry with an expertise in mixed-use, multi-family housing, joining SK+I in 2015. He is a strong operations professional who serves as a valued resource for our in-house architects and construction administration teams. He is appreciated by clients during the construction phase when efficient problem-solving is of the utmost importance.
Education: B.Arch, University of Miami
Regi Thompson has 25 years of architectural construction phase services experience and joined SK+I in 2011. He has developed effective working relationships with General Contractors, facilitating design team communication and coordination in the resolution of Requests for Information, Construction Change Directives, and Change Orders. He serves as a resource for our in-house project architects and construction administration teams and assists clients in decision-making processes during construction.
Education: B.Arch, Howard University
Ben Zoghbi joined SK+I in 2015 and uses his 18 + years of experience managing design and construction professionals to meet client goals. He is a dedicated advocate for mentoring junior staff about design, document production, and project procedures, as well as sharing experiences and lessons learned. He has a special interest in reclaiming and repurposing abandoned and underutilized buildings and places.
Education: B.Arch, Rogers Williams University
While there are no current openings, SK+I is always seeking talent. Please send resumes and relevant work samples to info@skiarch.com.
