Dattner Architects is proud to announce our 2020 promotions. In recognition of his contributions to our firm and his evolving role in the practice, Eric Epstein has been elevated to Principal. Rachel Ehrlich is our new Associate Principal and Emily Kotsaftis has been named Senior Associate. Our new Associates are Earl Jones, Heather McKinstry, and Shefali Sanghvi. Mia Lee has been promoted to Studio Director. These promotions reflect individual dedication to our firm and a shared commitment to our mission to positively impact communities through the design of sustainable, civic architecture.
Clockwise From Left: Shefali Sanghvi, Eric Epstein, Earl Jones, Emily Kotsaftis, Rachel Ehrlich, Mia Lee (Not Pictured: Heather McKinstry, who is on maternity leave.)
PRINCIPAL
In Eric Epstein AIA, LEED AP’s new role as Principal, he will lead projects in Dattner Architects’ Educational and Institutional sectors. Seeking opportunities to bring people together and provide a sense of place through thoughtful, meaningful architecture guides Eric’s work across this broad set of program-driven building typologies.
ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Passionate about building social equity and reinvesting in local communities, Rachel Ehrlich AIA, LEED AP BD+C joined Dattner Architects in 2007. She has dedicated her career to affordable housing with a specialty in supportive, senior, and special needs housing. She is a Studio Director for one of the firm’s housing studios.
SENIOR ASSOCIATE
In the 19 years since joining Dattner Architects, Emily Kotsaftis AIA, LEED AP has focused her career in the design and construction of innovative transit stations and the integration of infrastructure into each community. As a consensus builder, she brings a high level of professionalism to each of her projects and builds strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
ASSOCIATES
As Digital Design Director, Earl Jones Assoc. AIA manages the firm’s advanced computing, 3-D modeling, and BIM implementation. His architectural training and experience working for both architecture and engineering firms as a BIM manager allows him to communicate and collaborate easily between designers to create and manage a cohesive, efficient workflow.
Heather McKinstry AIA, LEED AP, CPHC believes that sustainable architecture is a critical part of creating a more equitable world. As a Certified Passive House Consultant, she sees architecture’s most important role as providing occupants with healthy, sustainable spaces to live, work, learn, and play.
Shefali Sanghvi AIA, LEED AP BD+C has a deep background in affordable housing, including new construction and renovations, senior housing, and supportive housing. She approaches each project with a passion for socially, environmentally, and financially sustainable design. Shefali also applies this dedication internally as a co-chair to the firm’s Sustainable Practice Group.
STUDIO DIRECTOR
With a diverse architectural background ranging from inspired interiors to comprehensive master planning, Mia Lee AIA joined Dattner Architects in 2010. She is dedicated to practicing architecture that results in spaces that positively impact people’s lives. As a Studio Director, Mia will work across projects to promote the exchange of design ideas, foster knowledge sharing, and promote the professional growth of our employees.
