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Don’t mis Charleston Moves Mobility Month Events in May! Liollio is sponsoring the kick-off event this Thursday, May 2, from 5-8 pm, "Safe Streets on Tap” at Munkle Brewing Company - 1513 Meeting Street Rd, 29405. For more info visit the event.
Spotlight On is a Liollio tradition of interviewing team members to celebrate them and get to know them better. Our February Spotlight On feature is Michelle Lanker. Michelle joined the Liollio team in January 2023, relocating from Seattle. An Ohio native and graduate of the University of Tennessee, Michelle is a versatile architect with more than 20 years of experience. She is known for building trust with clients and teams through clear communication and by bringing a strategic and focused approach to each project. We sat down for a Q+A session with our latest Spotlight On feature:
Where did you grow up?
Loveland, Ohio
Do you have children?
My dog Arnie is definitely like my child.
What do you like to do for fun?
I like to garden, paint when I can (love watercolors), walk around the downtown Charleston since I live downtown, ride my bicycle whenever I can, hang out with friends, and hang out with my dog a lot.
Tell us about Arnie.
He is a 16-year-old mutt named Arnie that I adopted from a shelter out in Portland, OR 15 years ago after he lost a leg and was scared to death of people. He has traveled everywhere, including cross-country from Seattle, WA to Charleston and back three times now with me. He is my best friend.
Favorite place(s) to go locally?
I love Hampton Park and Battery Park, walking there quite frequently. Arnie and I like to go to Folly Beach and hang out when it’s not the tourist season. Probably my favorite place is my own garden space which is rare to have in downtown Charleston.
Favorite restaurant?
A spot called Harvest Moon out on Highway 17.
Favorite food?
Gourmet grilled cheese and tomato soup!
Least favorite food?
I’ll try just about anything. I try to avoid processed foods though, so those would probably be my least favorite.
Favorite book or author?
Erik Larson, Devil in the White City. I love all his books.
Do you play any instruments?
No. Tried playing the clarinet in middle school, but not my thing.
What song is at the top of your most played list?
Home by HAIM (Barbie movie soundtrack)
Favorite musical artist or genre?
I’m pretty eclectic, but my favorite band is called Metric.
Favorite visual artist?
Monet
Favorite television show?
Six Feet Under
Last book you read?
I Am Bunny by Alexis Devine
Favorite podcast or blog?
Ologies with Alie Ward
Favorite movie or genre?
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Last movie you watched?
To Sir with Love
Favorite place you have traveled to and why?
It’s close – I love two cities – Barcelona, Spain and Medellin, Colombia. I am enamored with how both cities have managed to make dense urban environments feel so tied to nature either in the way the architecture is inspired by organic structures such as coral and forest canopies and various animals and plants (in Barcelona) or how transit systems tie the urban fabric to the natural mountains that surround via trolleys and escalators and light rail (in Medellin).
Favorite style of architecture?
Probably Expressionism. How buildings affect the way we think and feel has always been very important to me as an Architect.
What building have you visited that most impressed or inspired you?
Sagrada Familia
Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to and why?
I went to Spain years ago for three weeks by myself. I bought a one-way ticket to Madrid and then just stayed at hostels while on a very loose itinerary that took me all over the country and even to Paris for a few days before coming home. It was life changing for me.
What would the book or movie about your life be called?
Wherever Life Takes You, Embrace It
Who would play you in a movie about your life?
She is not anywhere close to my age or even younger than me, but I was always told I look a lot like Ali McGraw, and I would say my personality is similar to her character in her most famous role, Love Story.
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
Sea turtle, without question. They are solitary, they travel a lot. Symbolically, they have always meant a lot to me representing longevity, wisdom, carrying the world on it’s back. I have a tattoo of a sea turtle on my right shoulder.
Are you messy or organized?
Most of the time organized, lol.
What’s your pet peeve?
Interrupting and talking over others.
Guilty pleasure?
Buying flowers for myself when I go to the grocery store.
Tell us a random fact.
My dad is from Nicaragua, and I have an uncle who was, and a cousin who is, an Architect in Nicaragua today.
Favorite quote?
”Nothing is invented, for it’s written in nature first.” – Antoni Gaudí
If you could interview one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
My maternal grandparents who both died when she was a teenager. I would like to tell them what a wonderful woman my mother is and how proud they should be of her.
If you could witness any historical event, what would you want to see?
1998 NBA Finals, Chicago Bulls vs Utah Jazz, Game 6 (Michael Jordan’s last game) - I worshipped him as a kid.
If your house was burning down, what is the one non-living thing you would save?
A necklace from my family in Nicaragua and my maternal grandmother’s engagement ring.
What three traits characterize you?
Empathy, honesty, openness
What’s your astrological sign?
Leo
What is your personal philosophy?
Live in the moment as much as possible.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
Getting outside and enjoying the fresh air.
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life thus far?
Life not happening quite the way I expected and being okay with that because it has made me who I am.
What is your greatest fear?
I don’t think I’m really afraid of anything. As a kid I was deathly afraid of sharks after seeing Jaws. I would dream about them being in a pool I was swimming in and have even had a recurring nightmare like that as an adult. But I got to cage dive with Great Whites in South Africa several years ago and that shifted my fear to awe. They are amazing creatures and such survivors. I now admire their perseverance instead!
What is your superpower?
Adaptation
What inspires you most?
I am constantly inspired by my friends and family. Hearing their personal stories of overcoming great odds or doing something incredibly brave, or just being amazing humans that surround me with so much love is a wonderful gift I try my best to not take for granted.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Having the courage to start over.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
The openness and compassion here. Arnie comes to work with me nearly everyday and everyone has been just awesome in welcoming him along with me into this fantastic work family.
What does true leadership mean to you?
It depends on the circumstance. Leading a team means being able to clearly express a vision and/or set of goals and then empowering and supporting those around you to achieve that vision or reach those goals together. True leadership is also demonstrated in individual work though. Always striving for your best and when your best isn’t possible or you make a mistake, owning it and learning from it.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
A cartoonist
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
Don’t sweat the small things so much.
How do you define success?
Being content, but always learning.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I was very into basketball as a kid (my dad was a high school coach) and I was also a very tall preteen, so I decided to try out for an all-boys’ team in 4th grade and ended up being the starting center from 4-6th grade when we won the league championship. I did not grow an inch more and in junior high moved to forward and by high school was a shooting guard for my high school team. If I hadn’t gone to school for architecture, I would have played college ball somewhere, but the commitment was too much to do both.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Sounds silly, but my mom and I both remind each other to “let it go” as it is sung in the movie Frozen.
Spotlight On is our tradition of interviewing team members to celebrate them and get to know them better. Our October Spotlight On feature is Ridab Glal. Ri joined the Liollio team in 2022 and is a graduate of the University of North Carolina in Charlotte, where she earned her Master of Architecture degree. Ri has a passion for architectural design and rendering, organic design, and sustainability. A valuable asset to the studio, Ri confidently settled into her role as Project Designer and is applying her experience and knowledge to several projects in markets including Higher Education, K-12 Education, Community, Federal, and Health & Wellness. We sat down for a Q+A session with our newest Spotlight On feature:
Where did you grow up?
We moved around a lot when I was younger. I bounced back and forth between the States & Europe. If I had to identify one place, it would be North Charleston.
Are you married?
Yes newly wedded!
Do you have children?
Nope!
What do you like to do for fun?
I mostly like to spend time with my family. If I’m not hanging with family I’m most likely at the beach!
Do you have pets? If so, tell us a bit about them.
Noo but I really want a kitty.
Favorite place(s) to go locally?
The beach!!
Favorite restaurant?
I don’t necessarily have a favorite restaurant, but I often find myself at Kid Cashew or Spicy Palette.
Favorite food?
If the dish tastes good it automatically becomes my new favorite.
Least favorite food?
Unpopular opinion but I HATE eggs!
Favorite book?
Not sure! I haven’t come across a book that has caught my attention for a long minute.
Do you play any instruments?
Not currently but I used to play the
What song is at the top of your most played list?
Tout va Bien by Ever Mihigo
Favorite musical artist or genre?
Heavy Metal & R&B
Favorite visual artist?
Not sure if she counts as a visual artist, but Iris van Herpen
Favorite television show?
Grey’s Anatomy! But my show of the month right now is Why women Kill.
Favorite movie or genre?
Thrillers or Mystery! Sometimes horror
Last movie you watched?
They Cloned Tyrone
Favorite place you have traveled to and why?
Thailand! We went for our honeymoon; it was a breath of fresh air.
Favorite style of architecture?
I like architecture that reflects traditions and values of a specific culture. Not sure if it has a name - maybe cultural architecture?
What building have you visited that most impressed or inspired you?
Wat chaithararam temple in Thailand. All of it is hand made! So impressive.
Are you messy or organized?
I like to stay as organized as I can.
What’s your pet peeve?
Nothing yet!
If you could interview one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
Zaha Hadid
If you could witness any historical event, what would you want to see?
Hasn’t happened yet but the first Woman president!
If your house was burning down, what is the one nonliving thing you would save?
Most likely my phone! It has literally all the information I need to replace my other belongings.
What’s your astrological sign?
Cancer
What is your personal philosophy?
Mistakes are forgotten, life goes on.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
Shelter & water - the essentials!
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life thus far?
Being comfortable with being uncomfortable. It’s gotten me far.
What is your greatest fear?
I fear nothing… except chimpanzees…they are terrifying.
What inspires you most?
My parents! They’ve gone through a lot trying to make sure my siblings and I have a safer life than they did in Sudan.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Completing Architecture school, it was a rocky ride.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
I love how relaxed the working environment is and how the firm prioritizes growth!
What does true leadership mean to you?
I think a true leader should have a passion for teaching. If I’m not learning anything what am I gaining?
If you could perform another job for just one day, what or who would it be?
Jeff Bezos
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
Other than the responsibilities you suddenly have, adulting isn’t so bad.
How do you define success?
Being very knowledgeable and resourceful.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I used to speak fluent Dutch up until I was about 5 years old because I was born/lived in the Netherlands. I no longer speak Dutch - just Arabic and English.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Just do it.
The Liollio team celebrated the beginning of summer by holding our first Liollio Field Day at Carr-Richardson Park in West Ashley. With fond memories of elementary school field days, usually held in May before summer break, we thought this would be a fun way to introduce play into a Friday workday. Field Day games were designed to improve overall health, strengthen team building, and show our folks how much they’re appreciated. Games included a Macaroni & Marshmallow Building Challenge, Beach Ball Relay, Jumbo Jenga, Hula Hoop Relay, Water Balloon Toss, Hard Hat Cup Relay, and more. Everyone had a great time, and we look forward to doing it again next year!
Spotlight On is a Liollio tradition of interviewing team members to celebrate them and get to know them better. Our January/February Spotlight On feature is Tom Wales. Tom joined the Liollio team in 2021, relocating from Boston. As an Alabama native and graduate of Auburn University, Tom’s passions for historical research and analysis, paired with his background in the arts, has made him an asset to the team. We sat down for a Q+A session with our newest Spotlight On feature:
Where did you grow up?
I grew up on a farm in Elkmont, Alabama. It’s dead center between Nashville, TN and Birmingham, AL on the state line. If you are on driving down I-65 and see a Saturn IB rocket, you are there.
Are you married?
Yes, I am married to my wonderful wife, Courtney. We’ve been together since high school.
What do you like to do for fun?
I really enjoy painting and drawing in my spare time, along with playing guitar. We also enjoy finding something good to drink/eat and spending time at any of the great beaches here.
Do you have pets? If so, tell us a bit about them.
We have one heavyweight calico cat named Pip. Courtney got her while in school at Auburn, so she’s been with us for over a decade now. She’s the best.
Favorite place(s) to go locally?
Our favorite place to go is Sullivan’s Beach. We try to get out there at least once a week when weather permits.
Favorite restaurant?
We’ve recently been to Chubby Fish with friends, and the food was hard to beat. We also love going to Leon’s and Post House in Old Village.
Favorite food?
Ribeye or peaches.
Do you play any instruments?
I have played guitar since I was about 12 and enjoy most any stringed instrument. I have been learning to play the piano this year though, and it is going well overall I’d say.
What song is at the top of your most played list?
Patches by Clarence Carter.
Favorite visual artist?
I’ve always loved the work of Edward Hopper and John Singer Sargent, particularly both of their watercolors and travel sketches. I also really like Fairfield Porter and Hockney in terms of oil painting.
Favorite television show?
We really have a love for anything in the PBS Masterpiece Series. All of their shows are well made and are shot in the best locations. The Durrells in Corfu and All Creatures Great & Small are two recent-ish shows they have produced that are great.
Favorite book or author?
I think I own and have read every David Sedaris book to date. I am currently reading Laurie Woolever’s biography of Anthony Bourdain and am enjoying it so far.
Last movie you watched?
The last full movie I watched was Pale Rider.
Favorite place you have traveled to and why?
My overall favorite place that I have been to so far is Florence, Italy.
What building have you visited that most impressed or inspired you?
The Ny Carlsberg Glyptoteket in Copenhagen is the most inspiring building that I have been to. It’s the art collection and museum of the founder of Carlsberg Beer. Not only is the collection of art amazing, the buildings and garden are top notch.
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
An indoor/outdoor house cat has an ideal life.
What’s your pet peeve?
If you have the right-of-way, drive like you do. Be predictable, not polite!
Guilty pleasure?
Kirkland’s Signature Trail Mix.
Tell us a random fact.
I used to travel around Alabama and the southeast playing in disc golf tournaments. I can still throw a Frisbee well over 300 feet.
What three traits characterize you?
Hardworking, curious, and tall.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
Music.
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life thus far?
Relocating across the country is up there on the list. Moving without knowing anyone is challenging, but we’ve made great friends wherever we have landed.
What inspires you most?
I also usually have music on if I am doing anything remotely close to work. Travelling is up there too.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am proud of all that I accomplished in my time at Auburn. I would say that I was an okay student through high school and that it all seemed to click once I was in a field that I was actually interested in.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
I’ve made great friends and have learned a lot from everyone in my time here so far.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
I have said that I would want to drive an ambulance. Get from point A to point B in the shortest amount of time with a blaring siren.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
For the love of your joints, please do not play football.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
“I can stand on my head for a year. You can always move back if you don’t like it.” This came from my former boss in Auburn after receiving an unsolicited offer to move to Boston after graduating.
Thank you to the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry for hosting the Liollio team and allowing us to help revitalize the Museum’s garden space for this year’s Trident United Way Day of Caring. We loved helping out!
For over 20 years, Trident United Way has hosted the largest single day of community service in the Tri-County area on Day of Caring thanks to employers, teams and neighbors coming together to make a difference. Now they have tripled the impact from Day to Days of Caring in an effort to engage more volunteers, provide more flexibility for completing projects and deliver more impact to our Tri-County! For more information on how you can help support their efforts, please visit www.tuw.org/daysofcaring
Spotlight On is our tradition of interviewing team members to celebrate them and get to know them better. Our November Spotlight On feature is Catherine Manns. Catherine joined the Liollio team this year as an Interior Designer. She is a graduate of Iowa State University with a BFA in Interior Design. Catherine is a valuable addition to the studio, contributing in pinups, jumping into production, and adding to our firm culture. We sat down for a Q+A session with our October Spotlight On feature:
Where did you grow up?
Whitehall, Michigan. It is a small town on the coast of Lake Michigan that gets full of tourists in the Summer.
What do you like to do for fun?
Play Mario Kart with my boyfriend and go for drives by the water.
Do you have pets? If so, tell us a bit about them.
I just adopted a rescue dog of my own here in Charleston! Her name is Pokey because she is a slow poke. She is a black Labrador mix and is only 30 pounds. Pokey is a quirky dog who is already very comfortable sleeping in our bed and stealing our spot on the couch. My family in Michigan has 3 dogs that I grew up with. Koa is a beagle mix who is 13 years old and the epitome of a grumpy old man. He stays young with the other two dogs named Akela, a pitbull mix, and Hanai, a great dane puppy(ish). Akela will follow you everywhere and will peer pressure you into a car ride. Hanai is 90 pounds, but she still has a favorite stuffed animal that she carries around and is afraid of small children. All 3 dogs have Hawaiian names with their own meaning because my mom was born in Hawaii. It has been a tradition since her and my dad named their first dog together.
Favorite food?
A good burger with lots of mayo.
Favorite television show?
Deep down I am a 90 year-old woman and I love all game shows, but my favorite is Wheel of Fortune. My family has watched it every weeknight at 7pm for as long as I can remember. I now make my boyfriend participate.
Favorite movie or genre?
Monsters Inc. is one of my childhood favorites, and The Lovely Bones is one of my favorite darker movies. I love watching things about murder and kidnapping.
Favorite style of architecture?
I have always loved Victorian style architecture for homes.
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
Dog - because they have no responsibilities.
Are you messy or organized?
Organized for the most part.
What’s your pet peeve?
I hate the sound of hands rubbing together, and not really a pet peeve, but I hate that pedestrians have the right of way.
Guilty pleasure?
Coca-Cola
Favorite quote?
”Live your life in such a way that if someone spoke badly of you, no one would believe it.”
If you could interview one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
Old relatives
Tell us a random fact.
Subway bread is classified as cake due to its high sugar content.
If your house was burning down, what is the one nonliving thing you would save?
Family photos
What’s your astrological sign?
Cancer
What is your personal philosophy?
Everything will work out in the end.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
Google Maps
What is your greatest fear?
Being stuck/locked in a small space.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Receiving a full ride to Iowa State.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
That I can contribute my interior design skills and also learn more about architecture and how it all intertwines.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
I used to want to be a vet when I was a kid, before I found out they work on many animals not just puppies.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
Stop trying to grow up so fast - enjoy being a kid at home while you can.
How do you define success?
Loving what you do every day, surrounded by people you love.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I love listening to screamo and punk-rock music whenever I do design work. It puts me in the zone.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
My mom told me that the juiciest watermelons are the ones that are all beat up on the outside. That is not a metaphor, it is actually a watermelon tip.
Spotlight On is a Liollio tradition of interviewing team members to celebrate them and to get to know them better as individuals. Our August Spotlight On feature is Hunter Thurlo. Hunter became a welcome addition to our team his year, joining the Liollio studio as a Project Designer. He is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (2021) and a Masters of Architecture (2022). Hunter has become a valuable contributor, jumping right into studio pinups, production and the culture of the firm. We sat down for a little Q+A with one of our newest team members.
Where did you grow up? Mocksville NC
Are you married? No
Do you have children? No
What do you like to do for fun? Be outside, and explore new things.
Do you have pets? If so, tell us a bit about them. Growing up we had a recreational farm, and a slew of dogs and cats.
Favorite place(s) to go locally? Sullivan’s Island
Favorite food? Mexican
Least favorite food? Indian
Favorite book? Any well-articulated (with pictures) monograph on architecture.
Do you play any instruments? No
Favorite musical artist or genre? My Spotify favorites resemble a pinball …always changing directions
Favorite visual artist? Ralph Grady James
Favorite television show? The Big Bang Theory
Favorite podcast or blog? Oh yeah, I cannot pay attention to podcasts.
Favorite movie or genre? National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Favorite style of architecture? All styles resemble a time/place that represents the culture and technology of the time; therefore favoritism towards one is not allowing the understanding of what the style did for humanity.
Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to and why? St. Kitts. However, Rome would have probably topped it if my Study Abroad wasn’t cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What would the book or movie about your life be called? Dumpster Fire
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? Whale - the strong family aspect.
Are you messy or organized? An organized mess.
What’s your pet peeve? The lack of work ethic.
Tell us a random fact. I spent Thanksgiving in jail one time…it’s not what you think.
Favorite quote? “Humor is the absence of terror, and terror is the absence of humor.” – Jimmy Buffett
What three traits characterize you? Humorous, extroverted, selfless
What’s your astrological sign? Aries
What is your personal philosophy? Don’t Give Up the Ship
What is your greatest fear? Birds, snakes, ghosts
What inspires you most? Working hard and dedication.
What accomplishment are you most proud of? Making the rival high school swim coach break a clipboard because I beat his swimmer.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio? The culture and dedication to design.
What does true leadership mean to you? Selflessness and respect.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? Large machine operator at a landfill…I would crush it.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? Go have fun and take a break.
How do you define success? Starts with waking up in the morning.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received? “Confident, not cocky.”
The Liollio team would like to thank all who attended our recent housewarming event and helped us celebrate our new home at The Refinery in Downtown Charleston. A very special thank you to our friends and neighbors at The Refinery, The Whale Craft Beer Collective & Tasting Room, who curated our beverages - and 96.3 FM OHM Radio, who crafted a custom playlist just for our event. Thank you to Lewis Barbecue for catering the delicious ‘cue and sides - and The Cake Stand Charleston for your amazing cupcakes. Last but not least, thank you to our friends sundogband, the unpredictable, high-energy variety band based out of Charleston, who brought our terrace to life with great music and vibes. We are so grateful to you all. Thank you for making our event a success!
Spotlight On is a Liollio tradition of interviewing team members to highlight and celebrate them - and to get to know them better as individuals. After a hiatus of Spotlight On Q&A sessions, we are finally returning to form and highlighting Rajan Mistry as our July Spotlight On feature. Raj became a welcome addition to the Liollio studio in 2021 as Contract Administrator. He is a graduate of the New School of Architecture & Design in San Diego. He has a history of construction contract administration and project management from the perspective of the owner, contractor, and architect.
Where did you grow up? Ndola, Zambia – it’s a small copper-mining town close to the Congolese border, and had a great childhood there.
Are you married? Do you have children? Neither
What do you like to do for fun? I love being outside, so it would either be cycling, dog-walking, golfing or hashing.
Do you have pets? If so, tell us a bit about them. I have a Shepherd-Husky mix, named Shaki, and she is an awesome dog. She looks like a German-Shepherd but has gorgeous ice-blue eyes. She has just enough German-Shepherd in her to be obedient, and just enough Husky in her to be independent and love a good run around. Interesting fact about her; she doesn’t bark at all!
Favorite place(s) to go locally? Golf Courses & Breweries
Favorite restaurant? I don’t know if it’s my favorite restaurant, but I love going to Jamaican restaurants and go there most frequently.
Favorite food? Ethiopian and Japanese
Least favorite food? Any food that is a greasy mess and impossible to eat without destroying my beard.
Do you play any instruments? I play the guitar, sitar, and a bit of bass/piano as well.
What song is at the top of your most played list? It’s either going to be Chronixx (reggae & dancehall) or some vocal Drum ‘n Bass mixes.
Favorite musical artist or genre? House Music
Favorite television show? I don’t really watch TV – life itself is sufficiently surreal…
Last book you read? It was probably a Harvard Business Review.
Favorite book? Bhagavad Gita
Favorite author? Jon Klassen writes awesome children’s books, and I highly recommend you investigate them and buy them all for your kids.
Favorite podcast or blog? The Peter Schiff Show – it is primarily an economics podcast, but he also discusses news stories and geopolitics.
Favorite movie or genre? I love a good laugh, so comedy is always high on my list, but it may have to be The Matrix.
Last movie you watched? It was a kids’ movie with my little niece and nephew. There were some magic dragons and I think it was called Raya.
Favorite place you have traveled to and why? Mexico – I have been to 8 Mexican states and have had a great time every visit. You get high-quality goods/services, excellent prices, and the people are all wonderful.
Favorite style of architecture? I do not have a preference. I believe that good design is independent of stylistic choice. Just like how one can have great and terrible movies or songs of a genre, so too can architecture of a style be great and terrible.
What building have you visited that most impressed or inspired you? The Salk Institute – the look and feel of the building, especially with its layout amongst the ocean and vegetation is great. The way the building systems were managed and long-term modifications planned for was extremely insightful.
What would the book or movie about your life be called? Let’s See What Happens
Who would play you in a movie about your life? Like Tyler Perry, I would love to play absolutely everyone, including myself, in the movie.
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? I was once told by one of my primary school teachers that I was like a hummingbird. Very curious, very active and constantly moving around and engaging with things.
Are you messy or organized? Organized. There are two types of people; Leavers and Putters, and you find that out when you ask them where something is. Some people will say, “where I put it,” and some people will say, “where I left it.”
What’s your pet peeve? Mispronunciation of the word nuclear as nuculer, and the disastrous misuse of the apostrophe.
Guilty pleasure? I’m a sucker for sweet things, and every once in a while, I like to drive fast.
Tell us a random fact. Biologically, there is no such thing as a fish.
Favorite quote? “Rule #1: Work your Butt Off. Rule #2: Break the Rules.” - Arnold Schwarzenegger
If you could interview one person (dead or alive) who would it be? Peter Schiff
If you could witness any historical event, what would you want to see? I would love to see timelapses of ancient construction feats. Too many people tell me they were built by aliens, and discredit sheer manpower.
If your house was burning down, what is the one nonliving thing you would save? My laptop
What three traits characterize you? Intelligent, Playful and Wacky
What’s your astrological sign? Leo – and I would say I am very much the stereotypical Leo.
What is your personal philosophy? Generally, that things fall into place in life. Despite the rollercoaster of life, ride the waves out with a positive attitude – they are temporary – and you will keep the whole thing moving forward.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without? Outside space
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life thus far? I have had many difficult projects, with difficult project teams and difficult bosses. But interestingly, I love a challenge and the constraints that come along with it. It certainly increases the value in your heart when the job is over and done.
What inspires you most? Being at home, coming up with ideas on things to build and how to build them. I am always walking around my house and yard, scheming.
What accomplishment are you most proud of? There are many accomplishments that I am proud of, but none would be categorized as the one I’m most proud of. I have been told that I have beautiful handwriting, so maybe that!
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio? Liollio has an awesome team of people; hard-working, social and with great communication. I have high hopes that we have many more years of excellent work output for this city, state and region.
What does true leadership mean to you? There are many attributes that constitute good leadership, and all of them are vitally important, but I won’t be listing them all out in this answer. Two of the most important are trust and approachability.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be? A crane operator or possibly some sort of earth-moving equipment. Basically a giant toy that a 3 year-old boy would play with.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13? I wouldn’t have anything specific to tell myself, but I would love to teach myself projection-planning.
How do you define success? Adequately planning for everything to go well, not being irritated by things not going well, and dragging things to the finish line nonetheless.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you. I write calligraphic poetry art-pieces and they are currently being featured at the Mary Martin Art Gallery on King & Broad.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received? If you show up ten minutes early, you’re already twenty minutes late.
Liollio is pleased to welcome Cameron Foster, Associate AIA, to our design studio! A native of Richland WA, Cameron completed his Bachelor of Science in Architecture at Portland State University and his Master of Architecture at Clemson University. Prior to his academic career and joining the Liollio team, Cameron enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2010. After allowing Cameron a bit of time to settle in, we sat down for a little Q&A with our newest Spotlight On feature.
How long have you lived in Charleston?
We moved here 2 years ago, but I have only physically been here for about a year because of school.
Where did you grow up?
The evergreen state of Washington; in a desert. Richland, WA to be exact.
Are you married? Children?
I have been married to my wife Kelty for 9 years in October, and we have 2 dogs that we treat like kids.
What is your favorite non-living thing in your home?
Nintendo 64
What do you like to do when you have free time?
Kelty and I love the beach or trying new places with food and drinks.
Do you have any pets? If so, tell us a bit about them.
We have a 9-year-old fluffball by the name of Reggie. He can be identified as a Pekingese. We also have an 8-year-old ham with selective hearing named Penny who can be identified as an English Bulldog, or a pig. They’re awesome.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Making it 29 years.
What building have you visited that most impressed you?
Notre-Dame du Haut, a.k.a Ronchamp
What architect or architecture firm most influenced you as a student?
Olson Kundig is my favorite, I love the way they are able to use nature in design. But I went to Switzerland last year and find myself referencing back to Herzog De Meuron buildings a lot… so I guess it depends on the day for me.
What is your favorite place you have traveled to and why?
I would say either Okinawa, Japan or Chiang Mai, Thailand. Both places are full of friendly people. It’s all about the people. But Alaska is pretty neat as well.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
The studio culture is great, and everyone genuinely cares about the work each person is doing. I had the opportunity to learn from a few of the principals at the firm while studying at Clemson and it was evident from the beginning that collaboration is a key trait at Liollio, and that has only been made more clear since working here that some of our best work comes from discussion and contribution in the design of projects. And of course, the people are awesome, and you can tell that it is more than just a work relationship for everybody. We are able to have fun together at lunches, events, happy hours, etc. … When COVID-19 isn’t happening.
What inspires you most?
Knowing that one day I will have little mini-me’s that are going to look up to me.
What style of architecture most impresses you or is your favorite?
I am impressed by repurposed/restored architecture; the blending of historic and contemporary is pretty fascinating to me. It creates such unique places with so much character and gives such varied effects.
What is your favorite book?
You are Worth It: Building a Life Worth Fighting For by Don Yaeger and Kyle Carpenter
What is your favorite restaurant?
Chapala Express in Richland, WA
What’s your favorite place in Charleston?
Any of the beaches.
What is your favorite food?
Tacos and Enchiladas.
What is your least favorite food?
Cereal creeps me out.
If you could be an animal, what would you be and why?
I hate snakes, so I’d like to be a Mongoose or something cool like that who won’t take any bad business from snakes.
Do you play any instruments?
My Grandpa bought me a Harmonica when I was younger.
What song is at the top of your most played list?
I’m not sure but probably Rocketman or the Cops theme song Bad Boys.
Who is your favorite musical artist or genre?
I like a lot of different music ,but as of late, I find Tyler Childers to be the frequent.
Who is your favorite artist?
Claude Monet had a nice touch.
Favorite television show?
Game of Thrones, Peaky Blinders or How I Met Your Mother.
Last book you read?
HOG’s in the Shadow by Milo S. Afong. If I am not studying, I typically read military books.
Do you have a favorite book or author?
Roald Dahl
Last movie you watched?
Django Unchained. Netflix has had me on a Quentin Tarantino binge as of late.
Favorite movie or genre?
Bad Boys II… I know every word.
Any random fact you could share with us?
The Earth is flat.
Are you messy or organized?
Not messy.
Do you have a favorite newspaper, blog or website?
ESPN is a good one.
Favorite quote?
If it’s not broke, don’t fix it – not sure of anybody specific saying it before, but I’d bet someone scholarly has said it.
If you could interview one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
Ernest Hemingway
If your house was burning down, What is the one nonliving thing you would save?
Aside from my important personal identifying documents/records, my old alice pack with a bunch of my old sentimental stuff
Guilty pleasure?
Double Stuffed Oreos
What’s your astrological sign?
Cancer
What three traits define you?
Committed. Humble. Not normal but not weird.
What is your personal philosophy?
It’s better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
COVID-19 has made me realize that I really enjoy sports and social activities.
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life thus far?
Well I guess I would have to go with a combat deployment to Afghanistan or winning an argument with my wife.
What is your greatest fear?
Spiders
What does true leadership mean to you?
Working alongside rather than from ahead.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
A tuk tuk driver in Bangkok.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
Try everything.
How do you define success?
Being able to look back and have appreciation for the work you have done to get here; and enjoying yourself.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I don’t have pinky toenails.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Keep your head down.
Thank you to Liollio’s Alison Dawson and her husband, Calvin, for hosting their annual oyster roast for our Liollio team and their families! Everyone had a wonderful time, as usual!
As 2019 comes to a close, we take a look back at all of the wonderful people, places and events that made this year special. Thank you to all who’ve made 2019 a year to remember! Here is a look back at some of the events that helped shape our year. Comment, share and enjoy!
We are proud of our 2019 42nd Annual Cooper River Bridge Run Liollio Team! Cheers to an awesome group! Congratulations to all who participated in this year's race! For a look at this year’s official winners, visit https://bridgerun.com/.
Thank you to Liollio's Angie Brose, Associate, or hosting our recent Liollio Supper Club! It was a remarkable, cultural and delicious potluck. We are blessed to work with an amazing group of talented and dedicated individuals.
Images of Dinos & Cherie Liollio celebrating Dinos' FAIA honor with friends following the 2017 AIA National Investiture Ceremony in Orlando.
We had a wonderful evening at Dinos and Cherie's house on Friday night for the office holiday party! We enjoyed delicious food, wine and a fun white elephant gift exchange. The most "stolen" gift was soap stone, closely followed by a gift card to Starbucks, 6 pack of beer, picnic basket, and gift card to Panera. Happy Holidays!
We had our annual tree trimming event late this afternoon at the office! The reindeer antlers were passed around….a good time was had by all! Happy Holidays!
Beth Bartlett hosted the second LIOLLIO Supper Club at her home yesterday evening. It was a fun-filled event in which she prepared a feast including pork, chicken, vegetables, salad, appetizers and multiple dessert options. This was part of our new firm-wide dinner series in which we continue dialogue and conversation outside the office. Thank you Beth for a fabulous evening!
