KAREN COUCH,AIA
ARCHITECTURE PORTFOLIO
About Me.
As a Senior Project Manager and licensed Architect with extensive experience in the hospitality sector, I bring a unique blend of design expertise and strategic project leadership. Over the course of my career, I have successfully managed and delivered a variety of large-scale projects, from concept to completion, ensuring the highest standards of quality, functionality, and design integrity. I excel in leading cross-functional teams of designers, architects, contractors, and stakeholders, driving collaboration, innovation, and seamless execution. My strong background in architecture, combined with a deep understanding of project management principles, allows me to navigate complex challenges and deliver projects on time and within budget. Passionate about creating exceptional spaces that enhance user experiences, I am committed to excellence and continuous improvement in every project I undertake.
01 Philosophy
"When design is intuitive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, it not only meets users’ needs but also makes their journey effortless and enjoyable. A well-thought-out design fosters trust, reduces frustration, and enhances engagement, ultimately leading to greater satisfaction."
02 Resume
Education
2007-2009
M.Arch
University of Illinois
Urbana - Champaign
The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program designed for students with a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies or equivalent, focusing on advanced design, technology, and theory within a STEM-classified curriculum.
• Masters Thesis: Constructing Literacy: a design for a Chicago Children's Learning Center
2003-2007
B.S. in Architectural Studies
University of Illinois
Urbana - Champaign
The Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies (BSAS) degree at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a 4-year pre-professional program that blends architectural design, technology, history, and theory. The curriculum emphasized studio-based learning to develop critical design skills and engage with contemporary challenges in the built environment.
• Member of James Scholar Honors Program 2003-2007
• Dean's List Spring and Fall Semesters 2003-2007
• Charles Clemens Councell Memorial Scholarship
2005-2006
Study Abroad Program
Ecole d'Architecture
Versailles, France
An immersive, one year study abroad program at the Ecole d'Architecture in Versailles, France. Exploring the rich architectural landscape of Europe has profoundly impacted my appreciation for the power design. Each structure tells a story, reflecting cultural values and history that influence how we experience our surroundings. This journey has shown me how thoughtful design can evoke emotions, shape communities, and inspire creativity. The beauty and diversity found in European architecture remind us that our environments play a crucial role in how we feel and connect one another.
Experience
2023-Present
Senior Project Manager
The Gettys Group
Chicago, IL
• Successfully managed multiple hospitality projects with tight deadlines and budgets while consistently meeting key milestones at every project phase cultivating a strong client relationship.
• Coordinated cross-functional teams to determine timely delivery and compliance of project requirements.
• Identified areas for improvement in existing processes and proposed innovative solutions to leadership to optimize performance.
• Adapted quickly to unexpected challenges or obstacles encountered during project execution, devising creative solutions without compromising objectives.
• Provided technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members as required.
2022-2023
Project Manager
NORR
Chicago, IL
• Negotiated, developed, monitored, and controlled the scope of deliverables, work plans, and schedules for all project stages.
• Lead an integrated team of designers, architects and engineers in quality assurance and quality control procedures for all deliverables.
• Participated in monthly administrative meetings to review work plans, schedules and project profitability with the leadership team.
• Maintained and developed positive client relations to ensure business continuity and promote business growth.
2014-2022
Project Manager
O'Kelly Kasprak
Chicago, IL
• Successfully managed multiple hotel and restaurant projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
• Assisted firm principals with writing and/or review of project proposals, issuing RFPs to consultants, and establishing appropriate architectural fees.
• Developed and implemented office and drawing production standards firm wide.
• Mentored junior staff members, providing guidance on best practices in architectural design and project management.
2012-2014
Associate Project Manager
Sarfatty Associates
Wilmette, IL
• Assisted project managers with management of project team in production of design and construction documents for multiple retail, office and restaurant projects.
• Monitored progress of projects through regular status updates, identifying potential issues and taking corrective actions when necessary.
2010-2012
Project Coordinator/
Architectural Intern
JTS Architects
Elk Grove Village, IL
• Responsible for the arrangement and production of construction documents as well as coordination of drawings with consultants.
• Conducted site visits and documented existing conditions for use in project development.
• Kept projects on schedule by managing deadlines and adjusting workflows.
• Improved client satisfaction with timely updates and transparent communication throughout the project lifecycle.
Certifications
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State of Illinois Licensed Architect
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State of Texas Licensed Architect
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NCARB Certified
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LEED AP BD+C Accredited
Skills
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Project Planning and Scope Management
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Multi-project management
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Quality control and documentation management
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Project Scheduling and Timeline Management
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Project Planning and Scope Management
Technical Skills
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Adobe InDesign
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Adobe Photoshop
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Microsoft Office Suite
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Revit Architecture
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Smartsheet
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Deltek Vantagepoint
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AutoCAD
03 portfolio
Discover a carefully curated portfolio that highlights a variety of interior design and architectural projects, all focused on the principles of functionality and emotional resonance. Each design is meticulously crafted to enhance the well-being of its occupants, influencing their interactions with the space in meaningful ways.
