The following interview reveals some of Orsi’s interests, work experiences, education, and advice for future architects.

Did you always know you wanted to be an architect or designer?

From an early age, I enjoyed building (with unit blocks and Lego especially) and creating works of art. In my teens, I was always rearranging my bedroom, sometimes in the middle of the night, much to my parents’ delight. In high school, I gravitated toward math and science, and so architecture was not on my radar. After graduating from Upper Merion Area High School, I attended Albright College as a psychology major. During my freshman year, I transferred to Montgomery County Community College (MCCC) and explored other areas of interest including art, computer science, and graphic design. While visiting a friend at college, I saw her architecture studio and was immediately inspired. I realized that architecture would combine my interest in the sciences, math, and art. I received my Associate’s Degree in Architectural Drafting and Design from MCCC. Then, I transferred to Temple University where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. My path to architecture may not have been a direct one, but I am grateful for all the experiences along the way.

If you had to choose another profession, what would it be?

At one time, I used to say a baker or chef, which are also creative professions, and, unlike architecture, you get to eat your design. Nowadays, however, after my long journey to becoming an architect, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

What were some of your early job experiences?

During college and for years after I worked for a local architect at a small firm where I was exposed to all aspects of the industry. I started out as a Draftsperson and worked my way up to Project Assistant and then Project Manager. I gained invaluable work experience including design documentation, client relations, and managing staff.

What is your favorite part of being an architect?

I really enjoy the entire architectural process, from conceptual sketches to construction documentation and construction administration. I equally enjoy fostering client relationships, whether working with repeat clients or new ones. Having my own firm allows me to be fully engaged with our clients and their projects throughout the entire project which I truly value.

What is your favorite school memory?

My favorite high school memory is playing varsity soccer for Upper Merion. Our team was young and mostly inexperienced, but we still had a great time playing and showed up every day ready to improve. I believe you can learn far more from challenging or unsuccessful experiences, and they can be influential in shaping your character.

My favorite college memory is architecture studio at Temple University. It was challenging, stressful, rewarding, and enjoyable - all rolled into one unique experience. It was a roller coaster ride at times that forced me to discover and face my own strengths and weaknesses. It challenged me like no other class with overnighters, deadlines, and design presentations to juries.

What advice would you give to an architecture student?

First, get as much real-world job experience as you can while in school, whether it’s over summer breaks or a few hours a week during the school year. Just being in a firm environment and exposed to the daily routine of an office is invaluable experience. I ran many blueprints (Oh, the smell of ammonia!) at my first architecture job, and performed other “small” jobs. Luckily, I quickly learned that no task is too small or insignificant and they have all contributed to the overall experience I have today. Be a sponge and ask to be involved, from running prints to attending client meetings and drafting details.

Second, take a speech class. It was a requirement when I was at MCCC, and I have always been grateful for it. The tools I learned in that class, I implemented during my studio crits at MCCC and Temple University, to successfully convey my project ideas to the jury. Later, they served me when discussing design ideas with my own clients, colleagues, and consultants. Communication is crucial for interacting with other people and building relationships.

Lastly, study abroad. While I had already lived in three countries and visited more by the time I was in college, I still wish I had taken a semester to study abroad. There is so much to learn from being physically immersed in another culture. And never stop traveling, exploring, and discovering all that this world has to offer, whether it’s your local neighborhood or a country halfway around the world.

What do you love about architecture?

I love how architecture can transform a space and create a new environment for its users. Architecture shapes not only the physical built environment, but the psychological connection to it as well through the personal experience. It is a very powerful tool. I feel architects have an awesome responsibility to society and I am excited to be a contributing member of it.

What are some of your hobbies?

I’ve always enjoyed staying active and challenging myself physically. I’ve participated in local 5Ks and even the Broad Street Run. I also had a lot of fun doing the MS Bike-150 and MudRun. I’m happy to say that most of them have been with Rich which has made for some great memories. More recently, our son has been joining us on runs (including our favorite, the Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run) making them fun family events.

Over the years, I have volunteered with various charitable and nonprofit organizations. The most rewarding of which have been those with a focus on the education of our future designers. I’ve been a thesis advisor and guest critic at Moore College of Art & Design and a team leader and mentor to high school student with the ACE Mentor Program. I strongly believe in giving back by sharing my expertise and experience with the next generation, especially the young women entering our industry.

How do you deal with work-life balance?

That’s a work in progress, but luckily Rich and I are a team when it comes to growing our business, as well as, taking care of our family. The biggest challenge has always been trying not to work all of the time. Once we had our son, however, that need soon became apparent. We make a conscientious effort to keep somewhat normal business hours so that we do have family time at night and on weekends as much as possible.