Inspiring Conversations with Michelle Vassallo of MV Architects

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Vassallo.

Hi Michelle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I studied architecture as an undergrad at Miami University of Ohio and moved to DC for architecture graduate school at The Catholic University of America. The second firm I worked for out of college was a high-end residential firm located in Georgetown.

I really enjoyed the social part of working on single-family homes, getting to know clients and how they live day today. Solving for problems that would allow them to enjoy their homes more and create memories for years to come. By the time a project was complete we had become good friends.

I also enjoyed mentoring the younger staff. Working in residential the relationship with contractors becomes more of a collaboration which leads to a better end product with every build. After many years of gaining experience, I decided to spread my wings and start my own firm. I started to build my business on nights and weekends while working a full-time job during the day doing this until had enough work to leave my full-time job.

With the help of my 3 little boys, setting up my conference room and buildings desks, I opened an office across the street from their school. January will be our 5 year anniversary and we have grown to a team of 8 working projects that are small scale to new builds.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being a female-owned company has had its ups and downs. The construction industry is very much still a boys club. I find it always a welcome surprise when clients come to me because they are specifically looking for a female-owned company or a minority firm. I have had 5-10 projects that came to me specifically for that reason.

We’ve been impressed with MV Architects, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are an 8 person firm in NW D.C. and specialize in custom single-family residential design. We occasionally also do some commercial work. We come with a wealth of experience in our design specialty having many resources and collaborators to pull from.

The level of service and attention we give to each client is what makes us stand out amongst our competitors. I am most proud that I, a mother of 3 young boys, have built a successful firm, offering an exceptional level of thoughtful design, and compiled a team of wonderful colleagues to work with.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Including your colleagues in decisions and building your colleagues’ confidence benefits everyone.

Contact Info:

• Email: Michelle@mvarchitects.com
• Website: mvarchitects.com
• Instagram: @mv.architects
• Facebook: MV Architects, LLC
• Contact: 202-489-1103

Image Credits
Laura metzler and Jenn Verrier Photography