ABOUT_OWA

At Open Workshop for Architecture [OWA], we are driven by a shared passion for crafting spaces that inspire and endure. Principals Fadi Garcia and Jessie Shell bring complementary expertise and a deep commitment to purposeful design. With their wide range of experience from high profile commercial to residential and historical renovation work, we focus on creating authentic environments that balance structure, function, and context.

Since founding the practice in 2015, we’ve worked on projects that range from adaptive reuse to new builds, always prioritizing thoughtful design solutions that reflect the unique goals of our clients. The duo and their team strive to shape environments that balance material honesty, spatial relationships, and aesthetic resonance, fostering meaningful connections between people and the spaces they inhabit.

Fadi S. Garcia, AIA

Founding Partner, Design Principal

As Founding Partner and Design Principal at Open Workshop for Architecture, Fadi leads the firm’s diverse portfolio spanning commercial, public, and residential projects. His work reflects a belief that design should respond authentically to place, purpose, and community, balancing technical precision with expressive form.

Fadi brings a strategic and collaborative approach to every phase of the process, from concept through construction, ensuring that each project embodies clarity, material integrity, and enduring value. Under his direction, the studio continues to shape thoughtful environments that contribute meaningfully to the built landscape.

Jessica Shell, AIA, NCARB

Founding Partner, Managing Principal

As Founding Partner and Managing Principal, Jessie Shell guides the day-to-day operations and overall vision of Open Workshop for Architecture. She leads with a focus on process, collaboration, and the human side of design, fostering environments where ideas are explored openly and projects evolve with purpose.

Drawing from her background in art and hospitality, Jessie brings a unique perspective that bridges creativity and discipline. Her leadership shapes the studio’s culture of curiosity and care, ensuring that every project reflects both aesthetic rigor and a genuine sense of connection.

Jean-Frederic Monod, AIA, NCARB

Senior Architect, BIM Director

Jean-Frederic brings extensive experience in architectural design, documentation, and digital delivery. As Senior Architect and BIM Director at Open Workshop for Architecture, he leads the implementation of advanced modeling and visualization tools that strengthen coordination, accuracy, and design intent across all project phases.

With a background spanning commercial, institutional, and residential work, Jean-Frédéric integrates technology and craft to bridge the gap between concept and construction. His leadership ensures that the firm’s digital processes enhance collaboration, precision, and the overall quality of the built environment.

Luis Hernández, AIA

Project Architect

Luis serves as Project Architect at Open Workshop for Architecture, leading the technical development and coordination of projects from design through construction. With a focus on precision, clarity, and collaboration, he ensures that design intent is carried seamlessly into the built environment.

Combining strong technical expertise with a thoughtful design sensibility, Luis plays a key role in shaping the firm’s commercial and residential work. His leadership in documentation and coordination reflects the studio’s commitment to quality, integrity, and enduring craft.

Carly Fearnow

Junior Architect

Carly Fearnow brings a thoughtful and disciplined approach to design, contributing to a broad range of commercial, residential, and interior projects. Her work demonstrates strong conceptual thinking and a clear understanding of how ideas evolve into built form. Carly is engaged in all phases of design and documentation, including active involvement in projects, where she coordinates with consultants and helps translate complex design goals into cohesive solutions. Her blend of creativity and technical rigor makes her a valued member of the studio.

Layan Alkaelani

Junior Architect

Layan Alkaelani approaches architecture with a strong sense of design intent and technical clarity. She contributes to the development of diverse project types, from tenant buildouts to complex interior and commercial work, ensuring that design quality carries through every phase. Layan’s work reflects a deep understanding of proportion, material, and function, supported by a highly organized approach to documentation and coordination. Her commitment to thoughtful design and precision makes her an integral part of the studio’s collaborative process.