Merging Art and Architecture: Svigals + Partners Names New Director of Art Integration, New Associates
Nationally renowned architecture, art and advisory firm, Svigals + Partners has announced the promotions of three designers to new leadership roles, a move intended to reinforce the firm’s vision of a world of prosperous, compassionate communities. Architect and artist Marissa Mead, AIA, LEED AP, now serves in the newly created role of Director of Art Integration, as project managers Alana Konefal, Assoc. AIA, and Dan Dryzgula, Assoc. AIA, have each been named Associate. The promotions recognize the exceptional leadership skills of all three, as well as their dedication to design excellence and their commitment to Svigals + Partners’ founding principles.
“Marissa, Alana and Dan have been essential members of our team for some time,” says Jay Brotman, AIA, managing partner for Svigals + Partners. “Their new positions with the firm recognize the important contributions each has made to our growth and success and reflects their commitment to design and art that strengthens the greater community.”
Marissa Mead, AIA, LEED AP serves as Project Manager for public works, mixed-use projects, and institutional and commercial buildings. She has led several large-scale projects including Interdistrict Discovery Magnet School, Allingtown University Commons, New Britain Bridge, and the ESPN Technology Lab. Mead has also contributed original artwork and sculpture integrated directly into the architecture of several Svigals + Partners projects. As Director of Art Integration, Marissa lends a focus to design-intense aspects of large projects, developing branding elements, architectural art, and sculptural installations that enhance a building’s identity and create a sense of place.
“Svigals + Partners was founded on the truth that art is inextricable from architecture,” says Mead. “To carry this charge forward, with an incredible team of creative partners, is an incredible honor. I look forward to strengthening our collaborative artwork-development process and exploring the breadth of how art enhances our environments, our communities, and ourselves.”
Alana Konefal, Assoc. AIA.— recognized by clients and coworkers for her technical and organizational skills, diligent communications and passion for design—has led several project teams for the firm, managing the day-to-day operations of each. Her portfolio includes Sandy Hook School in Newtown, CT, as well as Riverside Magnet School and Early Childhood Magnet School, both at Goodwin College. As Associate she leads teams for an Addition/Renovation project at Central Connecticut State University’s Barnard Hall and the Recovery and Wellness Center for Cornell Scott Hill Health. A recipient of the 2018 AIA Connecticut Emerging Architect Award, Konefal contributes to the profession and provides service in the public realm through her volunteer work with ACE Mentoring and the Connecticut Building Congress.
“I am excited to take on this new leadership role and look forward to expanding the range of contributions I can make towards our firm’s success, and that of our clients,” says Konefal.
Dan Dryzgula, Assoc. AIA, started as an intern with Svigals + Partners while studying at Wentworth Institute of Technology, joining the firm full-time upon graduation. His current work includes design and project management for Southern Connecticut State University’s new Health and Human Services Building. Previously completed projects include Woodcreek Capital Management, Achillion Pharmaceuticals, a major lab renovation for Yale University, and the innovative new fMRI research facility at the University of Connecticut. As Associate, Dan will take on an expanded role in staff development, development of internal standards and procedure, construction administration and business development.
“I’m honored to take on an expanded leadership role,” says Dryzgula. “I look forward to each opportunity to advance the Svigals + Partners mission and vision.”
About Svigals + Partners
Based in New Haven, Connecticut, Svigals + Partners is a full-service architecture, art and planning firm dedicated to building sustainable communities that uplift and inspire people. The firm is known for its success in the design and construction of educational facilities, community projects, research and science buildings and corporate workplaces since its inception in 1983. Known for their original and imaginative integration of planning, design, and artwork in the service of broad client goals, the firm is committed to creating meaningful change in the world. For more information, visit www.svigals.com.
