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  • Mariela Cadena

    Designer Mariela Cadena Designer with JWDA since 2022 Education: - B. Arch., Cal Poly Pomona BACK TO TEAM

  • Paul Uong

    Designer Paul Uong Designer with JWDA since 2021 Education: - M. Arch., University of Houston, TX BACK TO TEAM

  • JWDA Architects | Firm Profile

    Learn more about JWDA Architects and the people, projects, history, news, approach, accolades, and awards that continue to solidify our reputation for expertise and excellence in the industry. Mesa College Social & Behavioral Sciences Building | San Diego, CA Profile People Past & Future Awards & Recognition News North City Campus Continuing Education Building | San Diego, CA OUR CULTURE THIS IS US Deep Blue Residential | Hangzhou, China WHO WE ARE We are a focused team of architects, designers, and planners dedicated to creating projects that enhance social value and contribute to a sustainable future. Through collaboration and creativity, we develop innovative solutions that address today’s challenges and promote a more inclusive and resilient world. It is our ongoing aim to infuse commercial viability, iconic presence, urban integration, and cultural resonance into every project. Our design solutions embody thoughtful yet unexpected ideas, balancing development goals, functional needs, urban heritage, and aesthetic expression. OUR TEAM Integrating decades of seasoned insights with the fresh perspectives of emerging talent fosters a dynamic environment where senior and junior staff learn from one another. This commitment to continuous growth and collaboration advances our ongoing evolution as a team and strengthens our overall proficiency in every stage of the project creation process. Establishing strong ties both internally and externally—with colleagues, clients, and industry partners—is central to our culture. By fostering these connections, we reinforce our foundation and distinguish ourselves in the architectural world. OUR APPROACH We approach each project with a pragmatic mindset, prioritizing our clients' financial success as a key measure of achievement. Beyond aesthetic design, we address the full spectrum of project challenges, including financing, scheduling, and beyond. Our commitment extends to helping developers navigate these hurdles by exploring creative solutions that propel their projects forward. By understanding the broader context and intricacies of each endeavor, we're able to collaborate closely with our clients to overcome obstacles and ensure their visions are realized efficiently and effectively.

  • Eduardo Franco

    Associate Eduardo Franco Associate with JWDA since 2015 Education: - B. Arch., NewSchool of Architecture & Design - AS Architecture/Architectural Drafting, Bakersfield College BACK TO TEAM

  • Michael Tria

    Senior Associate Michael Tria Senior Associate with JWDA since 1998 Education: - B. Arch., Santo Tomas University BACK TO TEAM

  • Vivian Tria

    Associate Principal Vivian Tria, RA Associate Principal with JWDA since 2007 Vivian Tria was born and raised in the Philippines before relocating to San Diego in 1998. Over the past three decades, she has worked on a diverse range of projects across the Philippines, Singapore, and San Diego. With a proven track record in delivering complex, high-density residential developments, Vivian collaborates closely with design and development teams from project conception through construction. Beyond her project work, she serves as a mentor to junior staff and a supportive ally to her peers, striving to ensure their recognition and success in the field. Vivian's passion for architecture stems from her fascination with design in both the natural and built environments. She sees architecture as a harmonious blend of art, design, spatial relationships, mathematics, and functionality, allowing her to express her inherent skills and interests fully. She takes great satisfaction in problem-solving, team collaboration, and continuously learning new things. Consistently engaged in extracurricular activities, Vivian began cultivating an orchid hobby during the pandemic, which has flourished and propagated since. She enjoys traveling, attending music concerts and musicals, biking, hiking, tackling home improvement projects, and exploring fashion. Married for over three decades with two children, Vivian is committed to work-life harmony, persistence, and an ongoing desire and openness to learn and grow. Education: - B. Arch., Santo Tomas University Registered Architect in: - State of California BACK TO TEAM

  • Alexan ALX

    completed 2018San Diego, CA BACK TO PROJECTS < PREVIOUS NEXT > HIGHLIGHTS 4/19 stories 313 units ranging from 459-2,228 SF Three levels of below-grade parking COLLABORATORS Interior Design: Parisa O'Connell Interior Design Landscape Architect: LandLAB Environmental Design Civil Engineer: Nasland Engineering Structural Engineer: DCI Engineers Electrical Engineer: Michael Wall Engineering Mechanical Engineer: McParlane & Associates Plumbing Engineer: Dufoe Consulting Group General Contractor: Swinerton Builders PRESS AWARDS Alexan ALX Residential Tower is a mixed-use residence located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, CA’s East Village neighborhood. Comprised of a 19-story cast-in-place concrete tower and a four-story wood framed low-rise over a single level concrete podium, the 313-unit project provides a variety of unit types from 459 SF studios to 2,228 SF two-bedroom penthouses, with three levels of below-grade parking. Alexan’s contemporary design features loft-style architecture, floor-to-ceiling height windows, plush units equipped with gourmet kitchens, private balconies, walk-in closets, and spa-like baths. Approximately 7,500 SF of ground floor common area is dedicated to street interaction with the community. Resident amenities include a clubhouse, with pool and spa facilities, and exterior courtyard. STATUS completed 2018 SIZE 463,161 SF CLIENT Trammell Crow Residential SERVICES | ROLE Design Architect | Architect of Record Alexan ALX San Diego, CA

  • St. Teresa of Calcutta Villa

    completed 2021San Diego, CA BACK TO PROJECTS < PREVIOUS NEXT > HIGHLIGHTS LEED® Gold certified 100% affordable project 14 / 7 story tower 407 units COLLABORATORS Interior Design: Design Line Interiors Landscape Architect: GMP Electrical Engineer: RBC Engineers Structural Engineer: BWE M/P Engineer: Randall Lamb Associates General Contractor: Level10 Construction PRESS Best Affordable Housing Project of the Year - San Diego Business Journal Father Joe's Villages' new 14-story building will take 550 people off the street - KPBS More than 400 San Diegans will find homes at downtown high-rise - San Diego Union-Tribune Father Joe’s unveils 407-unit affordable housing community - FOX News San Diego St. Teresa of Calcutta Villa - Giving Back Magazine AWARDS Project of the Year - San Diego Housing Federation Ruby Awards Best Affordable Housing Project of the Year - San Diego Business Journal Named to honor the late Mother Teresa, St. Teresa of Calcutta Villa is a LEED® Gold certified permanent housing development, and part of a larger plan to bring 2,000 affordable housing units to San Diego, CA by Father Joe’s Villages . Funding for this project came from multiple sources including private and public institutions, community groups and philanthropists. This 14-story and 7-story mixed-use tower is comprised of 407 units, ground-level tenant and support services, and new Father Joe's Villages office headquarters. Tower amenities include multipurpose space, offices, employment education services, courtyard space, lounge, community room, shared laundry rooms, dining area, and roof/garden terraces. Of the 407 units, 270 are reserved for chronically homeless individuals while the remaining units are dedicated to formerly homeless veterans, families, and others. On-site supportive services include health clinic access, job training, child care and programs supportive of self-sufficiency. STATUS completed 2021 SIZE 330,900 SF CLIENT Chelsea Investment Corporation and Father Joe's Villages SERVICES | ROLE Design Architect | Architect of Record St. Teresa of Calcutta Villa San Diego, CA

  • Lane Field North

    completed 2016San Diego, CA BACK TO PROJECTS < PREVIOUS NEXT > HIGHLIGHTS See the Lane Field Video Story here . Dual-branded, 400-key Marriott hotel 253 SpringHill select service hotel rooms 147 Residence Inn extended stay rooms 365 protected parking spaces within podium COLLABORATORS PRESS AWARDS Lane Field North is comprised of a dual-branded Marriott hotel, leased retail areas for shops and restaurants, and above-grade structured parking. The project consists of a 253-key SpringHill Suites select service hotel and a 147-key Residence Inn extended stay hotel. The dual-branded hotel shares a common lobby, check-in concierge, and elevator bank. Shared function and amenity spaces occur at the top of the podium and include approximately 6,000 SF of meeting space, a dining facility, fitness center, and outdoor pool. The 11-story guest room tower rises above this amenity level. 365 parking spaces are located within the podium. STATUS completed 2016 SIZE 449,321 SF CLIENT Lankford & Associates in partnership with Hensel Phelps & Portman Holdings SERVICES | ROLE Associate Architect in association with John Portman & Associates Lane Field North San Diego, CA

  • Atmosphere Affordable Housing

    completed 2017San Diego, CA BACK TO PROJECTS < PREVIOUS NEXT > HIGHLIGHTS LEED® Silver certified 12 stories 205 residential units COLLABORATORS Interior Design: JWDA, Inc. Landscape Architect: Garbini and Garbini Civil Engineer: Latitude 33 Structural Engineer: DCI Engineers M/E/P Engineer: Emerald City Engineers Design/Build Contractor: Suffolk Roel Construction PRESS AWARDS Merit Award - Engineering News Record Excellence in Energy Leadership Award - San Diego Gas & Electric Ruby Award | Project of the Year - San Diego Housing Federation Award of Merit - Gold Nugget Development of the Year - Our City San Diego Atmosphere Affordable Housing is a 31,000 SF, 12-story, 100% affordable apartment complex providing safe and supportive housing for a diverse downtown San Diego, CA population including homeless individuals, qualifying families, and young adults transitioning out of the foster care system. LEED® Silver Certified, the project contains 205 residential units, each with a private balcony. Common spaces include a community meeting room, computer room and several multi-purpose rooms. Outdoor passive recreational spaces are located at ground floor and 7th level, with a community garden on the 8th. Subterranean parking is included for a total of 186 vehicles, including six accessible stalls. STATUS completed 2017 SIZE 195,000 SF CLIENT Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation SERVICES | ROLE Design Architect | Interior Designer Atmosphere Affordable Housing San Diego, CA

  • Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

    completed 2021Encinitas, CA BACK TO PROJECTS < PREVIOUS NEXT > HIGHLIGHTS 4.3 acre site 114 guestrooms Nine studio rooms Five one-bedroom suites Two presidential suites COLLABORATORS Interior Design: MARKZEFF Landscape Architect: Neri Landscape Architecture Civil Engineer: Hale Engineering Structural Engineer: DCI Engineers M/E/P Engineer: Emerald City Engineers General Contractor: Suffolk Construction PRESS It List 2022: Our Editors' Picks of the Best New Hotels in the World - Travel & Leisure 15 Best Beach Resorts in the U.S . - Travel & Leisure New Clifftop Resort Opens in Encinitas - San Diego Union-Tribune First Look at the New Alila Marea Beach Resort - Robb Report Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas Opens in San Diego - Hospitality Design The Alila Marea Beach Resort Captures California’s Beauty - Interior Design Magazine The 30 Best Hotel Openings of 2021 - Hospitality Design Magazine Soul on Fire: Alila Marea Beach Resort a rare jewel of sustainability - The Coast News Group AWARDS Best Commercial Project - Architizer's Best of LaCantina 2022 Best Resort 2021 - Interior Design Magazine Best Hospitality Project of the Year - San Diego Business Journal CRE Awards Honoree for Best Resort - Interior Design Magazine Best of Year Awards Taking its name from the Sanskrit word for “surprise,” the Alila brand, acquired by Hyatt in 2019, and represented by JMI Realty and Fenway Capital Advisors, selected JWDA for its first new US build, the Alila Marea Beach Resort. Nestled atop the coastal bluffs in the laid-back beach town of Encinitas, CA, the design of Alila Marea draws inspiration from the area's unspoiled natural landscape and vibrant Southern California beach culture. Approaching the understated resort does provide a surprise of sorts, as it seamlessly merges with the rugged bluffs, sandy shores, and expansive ocean vistas. Framed by natural stone, warm woods, clean lines, and native plantings, the resort fosters a unique and immersive experience that honors the beauty of its surroundings, fostering a deep sense of connection to nature while prioritizing environmental stewardship. The resort is home to 114 spacious guestrooms, nine studio rooms, five one-bedroom suites, and the Ponto and Grandview presidential suites. Coastal and garden views are framed from each chamber, with natural elements and organic lines informed by the landscape. Totaling 1,037 square feet, both presidential suites include floor-to-ceiling windows and double-sided fireplaces that serve both the interior living room and the outdoor living space. Amenities include a 1,000 SF bicycle and beach café, 4,500 SF spa, a fitness center, a 4,105 SF main restaurant and lounge, 1,410 SF restaurant terrace, 1,925 SF outdoor bar, 11,060 SF of meeting space, and three wedding venues. STATUS completed 2021 SIZE 244,469 GSF CLIENT JMI Realty and Fenway Capital Advisors SERVICES | ROLE Design Architect | Architect of Record Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas Encinitas, CA

  • Hyatt Regency Chongming

    completed 2014Shanghai, China BACK TO PROJECTS < PREVIOUS NEXT > HIGHLIGHTS COLLABORATORS PRESS Hyatt Regency Chonming Opens in Shanghai, China - Raman Media Network Hyatt Regency Chongming - Hospitality Design Magazine LJ House, Shanghai Hotel: Gold - San Diego Union Tribune AWARDS Best International Commercial and Special-Use Project - PCBC Gold Nugget Awards Merit Award - AIA San Diego Located in the Dongtan Wetlands of Chongming Island in Shanghai, the Hyatt Regency Chongming Hotel is the first Hyatt Eco-Resort hotel in China. The design for the destination hotel organically integrates traditional Eastern Garden spaces and dispersed elements of holiday resort to create a localized “Modern-Chinese” architectural style. The structure is based on a series of courtyards interwoven with the surrounding landscape and offering breathtaking views of the Dongtan Wetlands. The project celebrates a symbiosis between Eastern and Western cultures, reflecting the classic Jiangnan architectural style popular to the region — characterized by white walls, grey tiles, and bridges — while providing elegant western amenities for guests. STATUS completed 2014 SIZE CLIENT Hyatt Hotels SERVICES | ROLE Design Architect | Architect of Record Hyatt Regency Chongming Shanghai, China

  • La Jolla Cove Hotel Renovation

    under constructionLa Jolla, CA BACK TO PROJECTS < PREVIOUS NEXT > HIGHLIGHTS COLLABORATORS Interior Designer: Dyelot Interiors Landscape Architect: Neri Landscape Architect Civil Engineer: Christensen Engineering & Surveying and Bowman Consulting Group Structural Engineer: Envision Engineering Electrical Engineer: Engcore Consulting Mechanical and Plumbing: H+W Engineering General Contractor: Dempsey Construction Inc. PRESS La Jolla Cove Hotel & Suites begins big renovation — San Diego Union-Tribune AWARDS Located in La Jolla, CA, adjacent to Ellen Browning Scripps Oceanfront Park and La Jolla Cove, the renovation of this 1959 boutique hotel transforms an aging property into a contemporary coastal resort worthy of its setting. The design is centered on the Pacific, with expansive glazing and generous private balconies creating stronger connections to the ocean and coastline from nearly every vantage point. The comprehensive renovation modernizes all 104 guestrooms and suites, along with the hotel’s public and back-of-house spaces. A reconfigured lobby includes a new bar, common-area restrooms, and a 400-square-foot expansion, while a new pool, amenity deck, pool bar, and outdoor dining terraces expand opportunities for guests to experience the coastal setting. Structural improvements include alterations to select stairways and elevators, as well as accommodations for concealed structural steel and mechanical systems revealed during construction. Working within the existing building envelope was a significant design constraint, as the five-story hotel predates current coastal height regulations. New building systems, including elevator overrides and rooftop equipment, required carefully integrated solutions within the fixed volume. Limited as-built documentation also required the design to evolve as demolition exposed existing structural and MEP conditions. A restrained exterior palette of smooth-finish stucco, solid-color metal panels, and wood-grain finishes provides durability in the coastal environment while adding visual depth at prominent areas of the building. The renovation also improves the nearly 70-year-old property’s energy and water efficiency, stormwater management, and indoor air quality, bringing the hotel up to current standards while preserving its essential connection to the La Jolla coastline. STATUS under construction SIZE 74,950 SF (gross floor area) CLIENT La Jolla Cove Hotel & Suites SERVICES | ROLE Design Architect | Architect of Record La Jolla Cove Hotel Renovation La Jolla, CA

  • Diega

    completed 2021San Diego, CA BACK TO PROJECTS < PREVIOUS NEXT > HIGHLIGHTS 41 stories Two towers 617 units COLLABORATORS Interior Design: Jules Wilson Design Studio Landscape Architect: Connect Landscape Architecture Electrical Engineer: Nemetz & Associates, LTD Mechanical/Plumbing Engineer: Reinbold Engineering Structural Engineer: Glotman Simpson Civil Engineer: Kettler Leweck Engineering General Contractor: BOSA PRESS Best Mixed-Use Project - San Diego Business Journal Downtown Apartment Project Features a Metal Forest - San Diego Business Journal AWARDS Best Mixed-Use Project - 2021 Commercial Real Estate Awards , SD Business Journal Award of Merit, Best Multifamily Housing Community - PCBC 2022 Gold Nugget Awards Rising 41 stories from a residential/retail podium with two towers and a colorful glass façade, Diega is a mixed-use, high-rise residential community in downtown San Diego, CA, and at the time of completion San Diego’s largest-ever residential project at approximately 1,082,000 SF and 617 studios, one, and two-bedroom apartments. A striking addition to the downtown skyline, Diega's modern apartments feature spacious interiors, panoramic views, and amenities including ground level retail and commercial spaces, a fitness center, and a 25,000 SF sky terrace with pool, spa and outdoor leisure space — all in a central and highly walkable downtown San Diego location. STATUS completed 2021 SIZE 1,082,000 SF CLIENT Bosa Development SERVICES | ROLE Design Architect | Architect of Record Diega San Diego, CA

  • Rey Caballes

    Associate Principal Rey Caballes Associate Principal with JWDA since 2007 Education - B. Arch., Santo Tomas University BACK TO TEAM

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