DiMella Shaffer Names Four New Principals

DiMella Shaffer is pleased to announce the elevation of four new Principals, ushering in the next generation of leadership at the 56-year-old Boston firm. David Godfroy AIA, Diana Linsenmayer AIA, LEED AP, Philippe Saad AIA LEED AP, and Frank Valdes AIA join current Principals Diane Dooley, Ed Hodges and Randy Kreie to strengthen and diversify its leadership team.

“As the three of us look to the future of the firm, we are thrilled to have four highly talented leaders join us to continue DiMella Shaffer’s ambitious design work and deep client relationships. We can’t think of four better people to embrace that challenge and build on DiMella Shaffer’s legacy than David, Diana, Frank, and Philippe.” – Diane Dooley, Principal, Ed Hodges, Principal and CEO, and Randy Kreie, Principal and President

David is a hands-on leader and clear communicator who has led many life science, tech and academic projects since joining the firm in 1999. He recently completed the McMullen Museum and University Conference Center at Boston College and is currently leading planning and design efforts for the new Nexus life science/mixed use campus in Allston with King Street Properties, as well as a new life science building in Waltham with Lincoln Property Company.

Diana deftly navigates complex projects and organizations, easily building trust with clients and colleagues. She joined the firm in 2005 and recently took on the role of Director of Operations. Diana also oversees some of the firm’s most complex academic projects. Her recent work includes the new Vassar Street Residence Hall at MIT, and renovations of a high-rise residence hall at Boston College and Harvard’s Cronkhite Graduate Student Center.

Philippe joined the firm in 2005 and quickly developed a passion for senior living and affordable housing. A talented designer who is rigorous about the details of a project, he’s also an excellent mentor and communicator. His recent work includes the master plan and major renovation of Orchard Cove – a Hebrew SeniorLife Community, The Pryde – Boston’s first LGBTQ friendly senior housing project – a joint venture of Pennrose and LGBTQ Senior Housing, Inc., and The Baldwin, Live | Work | Play Life Plan Community in Londonderry, NH for Edgewood Retirement Community.

Frank is a big picture thinker and a versatile leader who brings an energy and enthusiasm to his work with clients and project teams. During his 16 years with the firm, Frank’s project work has focused on urban design and multi-family housing projects. His recent work includes the Vivo Apartments and Prism Apartments in Kendall Square with Aimco, and he is currently leading the planning and design of a multi-family project in Allston with LMC.