Melanie B. Giordano, AIA

PRINCIPAL

License held: DC

Born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Melanie studied architecture at Carnegie Mellon University. Shortly after completing her B. Arch, she worked in a commercial firm in Washington, D.C. until the opportunity to focus on residential projects at BarnesVanze. Melanie observes that her enthusiasm for residential work is underscored by the wonderful character and variety of houses she knew from childhood.

When Melanie arrived at BVA in 1992, the firm was making a name for itself with renovations and additions to homes in the D.C. area. She became uniquely familiar with the region’s many beautiful and historic neighborhoods and subsequently, the traditional styles and details that have become her architectural language of choice. Melanie has helped shape the firm and was made an associate in 1995. She believes that the root of BVA’s success comes from shared values between clients and team and having great people who stay — due to exposure and opportunities — who understand that creating beautiful, interesting architecture is an effort accomplished by many skilled individuals. “It is meaningful to be part of a team and I never tire of watching ideas become real, beautiful, functioning places that are so appreciated by our clients.”