Member Spotlight: Christy DiBartolo, AIA, LEED AP; 2022 AIANS Past President
Christy DiBartolo, AIA, LEED AP has over 25 years of both residential and commercial experience. She has been involved in all phases of architecture, from beginning programmatic discussions and working with end-users, to the final construction phase, down to furniture detailing. Her career path enabled her to be highly technical in her abilities. She's worked on almost all project uses, from small scale renovation projects to mixed-use, large scale complexes. Above all, she believes in doing the right thing, and the willingness to take responsibility and being proactive to ensure a successful project.
Christy served as AIANS President in 2022 and is the 2023 Recipient of the Herman C. Litwack, FAIA Distinguished Service Award.
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Q&A
What was your favorite recent project?
It was an bedroom/entry addition to a single family home in Caldwell. This project was very 3 dimensional, as there were stairs up and down everywhere, different ceiling heights, vaulted spaces, catwalks, etc. The only way to determine where we could find additional space for a new bedroom was to model this. It was designed and executed without any issues.
How long did it take before you felt comfortable in your role as an architect?
Well, this is relative. I am comfortable with some roles and task, still not comfortable with others.
What would be your dream job or a project you'd like to work on?
Years ago I read What Color is Your Parachute. I went through the flower exercise, and my dream job would be to develop performing art centers. I still think that would be pretty amazing.
What do you like to do when you are not working?
I am heavily into exercise and sports, including pickleball and softball. I also enjoy meditating and anything related to psychology.
What are 3 facts about you that make you unique?
1- Years ago I spent 10 days on a silent meditation retreat.
2- I've been across the country in an RV.
3- I am a closet Weather Channel junky.
Who or what are your inspirations for architecture?
I like to think that I use architecture as a vehicle to achieve my purpose. See next question. As such, I gravitate towards those with similar personalities to me - calm, open minded, yet bubbly.
Who or what are your inspirations for life?
I am inspired by the notion of spreading compassion, understanding, patience and tolerance for reach other. I try to integrate this into everything I do. Architecture is a vehicle with which I accomplish this, as are my volunteer roles, my parenting, etc. If we all stop and take a minute to listen and communicate with each other without being judgemental, the world would be a much more peaceful place.
What’s exciting about what you are doing now in the office?
I'm trying to juggle a large number of projects, which is a challenge in and of itself. I actually enjoy code research, so walking through the code on projects related to changes in use is exciting for me. I predominantly work in the residential world, but itch to get back into commercial work. Also, in the face of AI, I am trying to emphasize the human touch of my business. I think people will appreciate this more and more moving ahead.
What advice would you give to recent graduates entering the professional world?
Volunteer, build your network. Stay in touch with these contacts. You never know how life will eventually weave itself together.
Projects
Mixed Use - Residential/Retail building in Wharton, NJ. In collaboration with a fellow AIA member Judy Donnelly as design architects. Completed 2022.
Two-story penthouse renovation. Designer and architect. Verona, NJ. Completed 2023.
Large scale, high profile mixed use complex at the New England Patriots stadium. Project included retail, museum space, parking garage, loading dock, 1-story retail buildings, and a health care facility. Foxborough, MA. Completed 2009.
Large scale, high profile mixed use complex in Washington DC/Bethesda, MD. Project included retail, office tower, residential tower, 4 levels of parking, a community center, and a Whole Foods. Completed 2012.
Front entry/bedroom addition. Very 3D house. Caldwell, NJ. Completed 2024.
