FOUNDING PRINCIPALS
In Cho, RA, CPHD
Healing injured animals as a teenager, In Cho had aspirations to become a veterinarian living abroad. This goal, somehow, organically led to her present life - with a Master of Architecture from Columbia, licensure in NY, NJ, and CT, and certification as an International Passive House Designer. As co-founder of ChoShields Studio, In Cho has shaped their multi-disciplinary practice to be dedicated to social and environmental sustainability. In Cho’s strong desire to connect all ways of life has informed her decades of architectural work in a wide range of project types, including urban planning, high-rise curtain wall design, renovations for commercial and residential buildings, and new building construction. In addition to her ground work of designing and building energy efficient structures, In Cho’s multi-disciplinary approach has further led to engaging in public policy as well as to educating fellow industry professionals and the younger generation on sustainability of our built environment. In Cho practices architecture while always thinking of the diverse ways we experience space: from the ergonomics of the individual to the dynamics of a whole community. Considering all builds healthy and poetic connections, a cultural fabric that is socially transformative, ecologically productive, and inspiringly beautiful.
Timothy Shields
Timothy Shields is a renaissance individual who has over 40 years of construction and architectural experience. He integrates sculpture, science, poetry, natural history, mechanical, plumbing, electrical and structural knowledge into his pursuit of the well-made building. Timothy studied engineering at Cooper Union and has a degree in Fine Arts from Hunter College. He established a reputation for outstanding results in New York City high-end residential and commercial renovations. With his wide-ranging background, Timothy brings his technical and creative expertise to every aspect of our architectural practice, working closely with our clients and contractors, inventing sculpture functions, and providing specialized consultation within the building community. Through his vast experience, inventiveness, and compassion, Timothy has cultivated a gift as an educator which continues to help others, both in architecture and in all facets of life.
“Tim and In are simply the BEST! Always available, always patient and always....RIGHT! It was a privilege to renovate with ChoShields and I am certain we will remain in touch until our next project when... they will be our first call! ”
STUDIO COMMUNITY
Julie Chia-Ping Chen, PhD
Julie is an accomplished professional in the field of architecture design, holding a Bachelor's degree from Parson School of Design, a Master's degree from Columbia University, and a PhD from National Taiwan University of Science and Technology. Her passion lies in sustainable design and promoting well-being across all age groups. Equipped with valuable certifications as a DGNB Academy Trainer, LEED & WELL Professionals and a REALTOR Associate, Julie demonstrates her unwavering commitment to prioritizing well-being through the implementation of sustainable and human-centric design principles. In addition to her professional practice, Julie engages in community involvement, university teaching, publishing research paper, and holds a patent for a pediatric patient education aid. Enthusiastic to practice and promote Passive House principles, Julie looks forward to making valuable contributions to sustainable practices and the creation of positive built environments.
Maureen Shea
With background in both art and architecture, and with a deep social and environmental awareness, Maureen has been applying her diverse knowledge to energy efficient design and the world of Passive House at ChoShields Studio. With her desire to innovate, Maureen develops ideas that are always fresh, thorough and resilient.
Andrew Cribb
Andy loves the science of earth's physical structure and substance, its history, and the processes that act on it. At ChoShields Studio, this geological wonderment and his talent of discovery through research and documentation of the abstract and the practical have extended to understanding the complex layers of NYC’s built environment. Uncovering the hidden characteristics behind walls, ceilings, slabs, soils, you name it, Andy’s got his sharp mind and tools ready to explore at any given moment.
Anna Seidman
Anna’s life-long focus on architecture and technology led her to earn a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Pratt Institute, where she delved into parametric design and analysis, as well as visual storytelling. She furthered her interest in digital architectural realm through her work at Pratt Information Technology Laboratory designing and building 3D printers. At ChoShields Studio, Anna engages in all stages of the design process, expanding her roles as an integral team member, and finds the realization of a team's efforts very rewarding. In her leisure time, she enjoys exploring New York, visiting Chinatown, consuming all forms of media, and playing her cello.
Bernarda Franco
Bernarda brings great energy to our studio with her open-mindness, patience and compassion. Bernarda’s talent, enthusiasm and dedication to the field of architecture has been instrumental in keeping our projects running smoothly.
Sam Dobens
Sam Dobens
Dan Cordasco
We like to say that Dan has been building and landscaping with his bare hands even before he learned how to walk. Dan’s life has been informed by his hands on approach to building, accompanied by his passion for research into best building materials and methods. He furthers his building pursuit with his love for landscaping and together they define and strengthen Dan’s approach to architecture and its environment.