As part of Grisafe Architecture’s 20th anniversary celebration, we wanted to take the time to highlight our team members, who are a huge part of what makes Grisafe Architecture great!
Rachel Fuller was Grisafe Architecture’s first official hire. Before she joined the team in early 2015, the company consisted only of lead architect Mark Grisafe. When Rachel was hired, it was also her first time working in the field, aside from internships. She came to the company as a recent graduate of Mt. San Antonio College, having received her Associates Degree in Interior Design. According to Mark, Rachel has since become “…one of the ingredients in the firm’s success.” He goes on to explain,
“Since being hired, Rachel has evolved from a new graduate into a valuable team member, a competent designer, and a project leader who aspires to continue her professional development. Rachel’s professional knowledge and experience are considerable, and her ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically with clients are all examples of why she is a valuable team member.”
Rachel’s duties at Grisafe Architecture are many and varied—and that’s what she’ll tell you she loves most about her job. She handles many aspects of the design process, from taking measurements at project properties, to creating 3D renderings, to researching building codes. She has also been involved in helping grow the business, working on things like researching new technologies, training new employees, and assisting in the search for a new office space.
Another aspect of working at Grisafe Architecture that Rachel loves is the different types of design projects with which she gets to be involved. Since Grisafe Architecture is both a residential and commercial architectural firm, Rachel has been able to work with clients on single-family residences, multi-family residences, warehouses, offices, restaurants, and even a surgery center.
Rachel will also tell you that one of the most gratifying parts of her job is presenting clients with 3D models of their projects. She loves experiencing the client’s excitement over visualizing what their space can be.
Outside of her work at Grisafe Architecture, Rachel enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her partner and their guinea pigs. She also says, “I don’t know if this will label me as an architecture nerd, but I like to learn about historical occurrences such as structure failures and disasters—in part because these give a lot of insight into building regulations, and I find the subject very intriguing.”
Well, we happen to like “architecture nerds” around here, which is one of the reasons why Rachel fits in so well with our team!
When you work with Grisafe Architecture on a design project (commercial or residential), it’s highly likely that you’ll talk to Rachel at some point during the process. Take a little time to get to know her, and you’ll see why she is such a valuable part of the Grisafe Architecture team!