Studio W Spotlight: Melissa Szpik

Sacramento, CA—We’re excited to announce Melissa Szpik, Senior Project Architect at our Sacramento Studio, as June’s Studio W Spotlight team member. Melissa has extensive knowledge in all aspects of project delivery, which she has gained over her 30 years of experience. She approaches each project with efficient organization, intuitive responsiveness, clean lines and a focus on using natural light transforming how a space looks and feels. With each project she has the pleasure to work on, she finds it as an opportunity to learn and grow her skills in flexibility, patience, teamwork and multitasking. She is a key team member on several educational projects, including the Gilbert Elementary School PK-TK Classroom & Early Learning Project, the Liberty Elementary School New Classroom Building and the Plumas Avenue Elementary School ELOP Facility.

Melissa is Canadian-born and draws much of her inspiration from Toronto. In her free time, she loves spending time with her “guys”, reading her current book of the moment and baking. Learn more about Melissa…

 

What is your hometown, or where do you live currently and what do you like about it?

I am from Toronto, Canada and I love the big multi-cultural active bustle of moving between neighborhoods. It is extremely walkable and has a super transit system.

What is your favorite restaurant or food?

I love all sorts of foods and restaurants, but there is a special place in my heart for pierogi.

What is your favorite song, movie or book?

Whatever I am currently reading!

 

 

What is a typical weekend for you?

You can either find me hanging out with my husband and sons (AKA “my guys”), riding my bike, reading a book or baking.

How did you find architecture?

I had planned to study Interior Architecture, but when it came to applying to California College of the Arts, my hand decided that Architecture was a better box to check.

 

 

What is a building and/or destination that inspires you and why?

I have drawn much of my inspiration from being in Toronto and spending time in the courtyard of the Toronto-Dominion Centre by Mies Van der Rohe. Also from taking strolls through Calatrava’s Galleria & Heritage Square. The power and beauty is humbling and invigorating.

 

What is your favorite aspect of working at Studio W Architects?

My co-workers are incredibly supportive and encouraging, and the consultants and clients have been wonderful. Everyone has a wicked sense of humor and it is very much like being in studio. Head down, work hard, take a break to laugh, then repeat.

What project have you worked on at Studio W that made you grow the most professionally? Why?

Each project I touch is an opportunity to learn and grow. I get to practice flexibility, patience, teamwork and juggling!