The announcement reflects the firm’s lasting dedication to the next generation of design leadership
JCJ Architecture, a forward-thinking and nationally ranked planning, architecture, and interior design firm, proudly celebrates the appointment of three new Directors of Interior Design: Emily Czarnecki, NCIDQ; Sharmista Mitra, NCIDQ, CID; and Carrie Nielsen, NCIDQ, ASID. These leadership appointments reflect the firm’s ongoing commitment to innovation, mentorship, and the next generation of design leadership, as the firm enters its 90th year of continuous practice.
In addition to their continued dedication to client service, the directors will collaborate closely with James E. LaPosta, Jr., FAIA, Principal and Chief Architectural Officer, and Robert Gdowski, AIA, Principal and Director of Hospitality Design. Together, this leadership team will advance firmwide initiatives that strengthen design quality, foster innovation, and support excellence in project delivery across regions and markets. Collectively, they will continue to serve as industry thought leaders, staying ahead of emerging trends and evolving best practices.
“These individuals bring decades of diverse experience across community, education, gaming, and hospitality projects that elevate the work of their teams and JCJ as a whole,” said James E. LaPosta, Jr., FAIA. “As we celebrate our 90th year, these appointments underscore our commitment to excellence and to remaining at the forefront of design innovation and market evolution.”
Emily Czarnecki, NCIDQ, Principal: With more than 24 years of experience designing education and community-focused environments, Emily partners closely with public-and private-sector clients to deliver thoughtful, consensus-driven solutions. She is known for leading collaborative, interdisciplinary teams and for championing rigorous design standards and transparent processes. Emily has been with JCJ since 2003.
Sharmista Mitra, NCIDQ, CID, Principal: Drawing on decades of experience in gaming and resort design, Sharmista is a trusted client advisor and seasoned leader, recognized for her ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver solutions at a wide range of scales. Since joining the JCJ team in 2005, Sharmista has established herself as a trusted source for exacting attention to detail and focus on the guest experience.
Carrie Nielsen, NCIDQ, ASID, Senior Associate: A multi-faceted and dynamic designer, Carrie is known for her energy, creativity, and deep commitment to her craft. Her experience spans boutique and branded hospitality projects, including ground-up construction, renovations, and comprehensive repositioning efforts. Carrie has been with JCJ since 2005 and is frequently recognized by clients and colleagues for her leadership and boundless enthusiasm.
As JCJ enters this milestone year, the firm remains dedicated to raising the bar in design and project delivery, guided by an unwavering commitment to service that has defined its practice for nine decades. To commemorate its 90th anniversary, JCJ will share exclusive content and reflections across its social media channels throughout the year.
To learn more, please visit https://www.jcj.com
About JCJ Architecture
JCJ Architecture is a forward-thinking and nationally ranked planning, architecture and interior design firm offering comprehensive services to clients in the hospitality, gaming, civic, K12 and higher education sectors. Founded in 1936, the employee-owned firm’s mission is to provide innovative design solutions that enhance the environment, enrich people’s lives and help organizations succeed.
With a long-standing reputation for business acumen and project delivery excellence, JCJ focuses on bringing the qualities of adaptability, integrity, respect and collaboration to a design process that leverages the unique qualities and potential of each project. JCJ collaborates with clients across the United States from offices located in Boston, Hartford, New York City, Phoenix, San Diego, Tulsa, and Las Vegas. For more information, please visit www.jcj.com.