News
Spotlight On: Jane Thompson
Mez Joseph
A native of Georgia, Jane Thompson, Liollio Associate Principal, moved to South Carolina in 1986. For the past 20 years, Jane has worn many hats at Liollio - many of them resting on that wild, wonderful, and untamed mane of hers. She began her tenure at the firm as Administrative Assistant and gradually took on more responsibilities over the years like spec writing and event planning. She transitioned from Administrative Assistant to Office Manager to Human Resources to Business Development Manager and Associate Principal. Her most important role, however, has been that of a friend. Though we knew the day would come all too soon, it is bittersweet to celebrate Jane’s retirement from the firm this month. I think I speak for the entire Liollio team when I say that no one can replace Jane and we will truly miss her - her compassion, her work ethic, her laughter and humor, her guidance - her presence. Before she embarks on new adventures, we wanted to sit down for a little Q&A with our long-overdue Spotlight On feature. Happy reading, sports fans…
How long have you lived in Charleston?
20 years
Where did you grow up?
All around Georgia - I was born in Blue Ridge GA.
Are you married?
Yes
Children?
Yes - 2 sons, 2 daughter-in-laws, 3 granddaughters, and 1 grandson.
What is your favorite non-living thing in your home?
Operable windows
What do you like to do when you have free time?
Take a bike ride if it's pretty outside - play Candy Crush if it's not.
Do you have any pets?
Not anymore - I live in a 3rd floor walk up and am too lazy to take care of pets right now. If so, tell us a bit about them. In my lifetime, I've had 5 dogs, 7 cats, numerous white mice and guinea pigs, a parakeet, more rabbits than I can count, a couple of chickens, and 3 horses. (this doesn't count the 7 black puppies I found in a graveyard in Georgia that I brought back home with me to SC and then found them new parents.)
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
My family - I think I had a little to do with how much fun we have together.
What building have you visited that most impressed you?
Doge's Palace in Venice Italy
What architect or architecture firm most influenced you as a student?
I have been a student in awe of the practice of architecture from the first day I started at Liollio - never went to school for that though.
What is your favorite place you have traveled to and why?
Tuscany - they have really good wine there and lots of time to enjoy it!
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
Hands down - the people I work with.
What inspires you most?
Laughter
What style of architecture most impresses you or is your favorite?
I don't have a favorite style - but I know what I like when I see it.
What is your favorite book?
Always was and always will be The Hobbit, J. R. R. Tolkien
What is your favorite restaurant?
Vespa on Daniel Island
What’s your favorite place(s) in Charleston?
Home, my children's homes, the office, the bridges, the waterfronts, the beach, rooftop bars, narrow streets, wide streets, the parks... Oh, did you want just one place? Sorry, can't narrow it down!
What is your favorite food?
Wine - that's a fruit right?
What is your least favorite food?
Seafood - yep, that's what I said.
If you could be an animal, what would you be and why?
A jaguar - they are beautiful, fast, powerful, and strong.
Do you play any instruments?
I used to play the harmonica pretty good. My mama taught me.
What song is at the top of your most played list?
Anything by Motown - My Girl by The Temptations is the first to come to mind. Makes me want to dance.
Who is your favorite musical artist or genre?
That's hard to narrow down too. First to come to mind is Otis Redding, but James Taylor runs a very close second.
Who is your favorite artist?
My grandchildren
Favorite television show?
Ally McBeal
Last book you read?
An as-yet untitled book that my nephew wrote and I edited.
Last movie you watched?
I Am Woman - story of Helen Reddy's life on Netflix
Favorite movie or genre?
It's embarrassing to admit - always was and always will be Dirty Dancing, but Shawshank Redemption is aa close second.
Any random fact you could share with us?
I rode in an elevator with Telly Savalas once in Las Vegas, and he winked at me.
Messy or organized?
Organized for sure.
Do you have a favorite newspaper, blog or website?
I'm an NPR addict.
Favorite quote?
"Don't give up, no murmur or utter. One more kick may bring the butter." Long story, and as far as I know, the author is unknown. There's more to it. 'll explain it to you sometime…
If you could interview one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
My Granny Dorsey
If you could witness any historical event, what would you want to see?
I would like to have been there when the Great Pyramid of Giza was built - then I'd see for myself how it was done.
If your house was burning down, What is the one nonliving thing you would save?
My red treasure box - it's got things in there that can't be replaced.
Guilty pleasure?
Eating Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk with a spoon straight from the can.
What would the book or movie about your life be called?
She Thought She Knew It All But Really Didn't
Who would play you in a movie about your life?
Melissa McCarthy - she laughs a lot.
What’s your astrological sign?
Cancer
What three traits define you?
Unconditional love, my spirituality, sense of humor.
What is your personal philosophy?
Work hard, play hard and rest well.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
Vicks Vapor Rub
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life thus far?
Burying my parents
What is your greatest fear?
I don’t know – I’ll have to think about that.
What does true leadership mean to you?
The ability to listen before being heard.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
A jockey in the Kentucky Derby – I’d like to be on the winning horse.
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
Listen to your Daddy – it’s all going to be good.
How do you define success?
My family enjoying my company.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I love rap music and listen to it when I get angry mostly - I have a quick temper.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t give someone else an opportunity to change your voice.
Liollio Architecture Awarded 2020 AIA South Atlantic Region ASPIRE Design Award
Mez Joseph
“Richland Library Ballentine is a well-conceived building with a strong sense of materiality. The Jury really liked the controlled carving of the form and strong, detailed transitions. This is a great example of well-used public funds.”
Liollio Architecture is honored to announce that the American Institute of Architects South Atlantic Region has recognized Liollio’s design of Richland Library Ballentine in Irmo, SC with a 2020 AIA SAR Design Award.
Exploring the concept of Library as Studio with Richland Library, the Ballentine branch implemented innovative programming concepts. Community meetings and focus groups revealed a strong identity of art, craft, and connection to nature. An outdoor deck, reading great room, community living room, puppet theatre, built-in activity wall with reading nooks, small and medium gathering spaces, a maker space, and an art studio are key features. A completely flexible approach to defining space with furnishings makes the library eminently adaptable throughout the day.
The AIA SAR has a long-standing tradition of recognizing a broad range of architecture activity that exemplifies the values of the South Atlantic Region and improves the quality of the built environment.The SAR Design Awards program seeks to highlight the diverse range of project types that exist within the region. The 2020 Aspire Design Awards were presented digitally during this year’s online conference. Over 350 projects were submitted to the program and 29 were awarded.
Liollio Architecture Awarded 2020 AIA National Healthcare Design Award
Mez Joseph
Visit the AIA National Website: 2020 Healthcare Design Awards - Click Here.
Liollio Architecture is honored to announce that the American Institute of Architects has recognized Liollio’s design of the Hampton County Health Clinic in Varnville, SC with a 2020 AIA National Healthcare Design Award.
““This project brings dignity, hope, and joy to the community it supports.””
This facility serving two rural South Carolina communities reflects the region’s faith in its future. The new facility, a joint venture between county and state agencies, replaced an outdated, 50-year-old structure. Given the site’s location in a former railroad town, simple materials and massing were employed to evoke the boxcars that used to roll through. Inside, patient care areas are divided between clinical care and care for women, infants, and children. Each features its own service corridor and waiting areas, all with ample natural light that enhances the environment for patients facing potentially difficult diagnoses. Privacy was a key factor in determining the program and organization of the clinic’s spaces. At the new facility’s ribbon cutting ceremony, the team noted a shift in perception and mood, confirming it had delivered a modest but noble clinic reflective of the community’s emboldened spirit.
““Functional and understated, it is a fantastic little jewel box made of simple forms and modest materials...It is wonderful to see such thoughtful care and attention given to a rural community health facility. It is a building they can take pride in.””
Spotlight On: Cameron Foster
Mez Joseph
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.
Liollio Architecture Welcomes Cameron Foster
Mez Joseph
Cameron Foster Associate AIA
Liollio Architecture is pleased to welcome Cameron Foster to its design studio. Originally from Richland WA, Cameron enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2010. After his service in the military, he fulfilled his aspiration of studying architecture and went on to obtain his Bachelor of Science in Architecture at Portland State University and his Master of Architecture at Clemson University.
Cameron is passionate about community-based, sustainable, and innovative design and the influences of academia on architecture. He has a strong appreciation for architecture that is restored or re-used in order to facilitate progressive cultivation of community, while maintaining historic and cultural value. Upon joining the Liollio team, Cameron’s work has consisted of Community and Healthcare projects. Cameron enjoys the beach, traveling, sports, and spending time with his wife and dogs. The Liollio team celebrates Cameron’s achievements and welcomes him to its studio.
Albert Simons Center for the Arts Getting A New Look: Live 5 News
Mez Joseph
By Summer Huechtker | July 22, 2020
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The College of Charleston has been working on plans to improve the Albert Simons Center for the Arts for at least four years now.
On Wednesday, the plans will be seeking preliminary approval from the City of Charleston’s Board of Architectural Review.
The City of Charleston Planning Director Jacob Lindsey says portions of the building will be demolished and replaced, including a newly designed structure that will house the theater in the Simons Center. Additionally, Lindsay says the interior of the theater will be re-designed and expanded.
The existing courtyard will be updated and Lindsay says the new parts of the building will frame this newly designed space so the Green Way Street entrance will look completely different at the front.
Lindsey says the changes will give the Simons Center a new, modern face. He adds that the city encourages high style for civic buildings like theaters.
It's important for the city to play a role in this design process because the building is on a public street, along Philip Street, Lindsay says.
Although the Simons Center is a College of Charleston building, many of its art openings and performances are open to the public and it is also used for the Spoleto Festival.
The college says they have been in the planning phases of this re-design with Liollio architects for a number of years, so they hope to get through the approval process as soon as possible.
Though the city’s board of architectural review will be reviewing the designs for the first time Wednesday, Lindsey says they are still months away from the start of construction.
Copyright 2020 WCSC. All rights reserved.
Children’s Museum Expanding with Outdoor Space: Live 5 News
Mez Joseph
By Summer Huechtker | July 22, 2020
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry is planning an expansion of an outdoor area and improvements to its current historic building.
The city's Planning Director, Jacob Lindsey, says he's excited about this expansion that plans to gives the city's only children's museum more space outdoors. He says the previous outdoor space around the building was not very big and not well used.
The museum says they are planning to add a creative canopy that resembles the children's game of "pick up sticks."
"The design is really a playful one and is colorful and different from anything else that you'll find in the city," Lindsey said.
He added that there will be a new, permanent roof over the outdoor area as well as a fence that surrounds this area in order to keep it more private and safe.
Lindsay says the outdoor space is going to be next to the museum on Ann Street, and will run the whole length of the block between King Street and Meeting Street.
The Children’s Museum’s historic building has never gone through rehabilitation, but organizers say they are excited to finally get this underway after about two years of planning.
The city says they are also planning for an interior re-work of the facilities and programs indoors.
These additions are up for preliminary approval at the Board of Architectural Review Wednesday. Once it gets full approval for the outdoor shade and interior renovation, it could start construction.
Copyright 2020 WCSC. All rights reserved.
A More Resilient Charleston: Charleston City Paper Features Aaron Bowman Article
Mez Joseph
ONE Architecture + Urbanism, from Imaginethewall.org
Bowman: Sea level rise proposals deserve wider cultural input: A More Resilient Charleston
By Aaron Bowman
Like many coastal areas across the country, the city of Charleston continues to bear the brunt of an increasingly volatile and changing climate. Last year saw a record number of "sunny day" floods and this year marks the sixth consecutive year where tropical storms have formed before hurricane season has officially started. The City of Charleston is to be commended for its continued commitment to studying the effects of climate change and implementing projects to not only address current problems but also mitigate future impacts.
The Charleston Peninsula Study conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers represents the latest in a series of studies and offers a thorough analysis of a single issue that threatens the peninsula of Charleston: storm surge. The potential economic and cultural impact of a severe hazard event are well presented and the concept of a barrier to address this issue has been discussed previously.
However, the Peninsula Study's limitation to this one topic ignores the reality of additional documented hazards that represent a growing economic and environmental threat to our community. As noted in the report materials online, this proposal needs to be considered as part of a comprehensive strategy to address flooding, sea level rise and the impacts of storm events. However, this analysis does not address these other hazards or offer analysis of how this plan could support existing infrastructure projects and planning proposals.
The study's current focus offers two structural options for a barrier wall, both of which neglect the rich history of Charleston's relationship with water. While these responses offer an engineered response to the question of storm surge, this problem requires a more integrated design solution that addresses the specific context in which it is located. A combination of "rigid" infrastructure and "soft" landscape solutions could mitigate the impact to cultural and natural resources and offer amenities for residents.
Complex problems like climate change and the design of resilient cities are not linear in nature and cannot be treated as an equation to solve. These wicked problems involve multivariable, interconnected systems that include not only environmental and economic issues, but social impacts as well. Charleston's rich history of preservation may be best known for its emphasis on the protection of the built environment, but it is the people who live and work in those buildings that define our community. It is the people of our community who actively (and vocally) participate in a robust public discourse that informs stakeholders and civic leaders and collectively shapes the future of our city.
Projects such as The BIG U, a post-Hurricane Sandy project to create a storm surge barrier along a continuous 10-mile stretch of Lower Manhattan, offer a model for civic engagement and public participation. The design and development team met with neighborhoods throughout the study area to understand their concerns and then developed contextually appropriate design strategies to address those concerns and maintain or improve their relationship to the water.
The Charleston Peninsula Study represents an important step forward in the City of Charleston's efforts to address the climate hazards that are facing our community. As the study continues to develop, a comprehensive public engagement strategy and a broader understanding of economic, environmental and social impacts of this proposal will be necessary to truly judge its success. The architects of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Charleston and the AIA South Carolina Resilience Committee look forward to continuing the conversation and working collaboratively to design a more resilient Charleston.
Aaron Bowman is an architect at Liollio Architecture and the founding chair of AIA South Carolina's Resilience Committee.
West Ashley Site Plans Offer Sense of ‘Place Making’
Mez Joseph
PROVIDED/CITY OF CHARLESTON
A design rendering by Liollio Architecture of a proposed plan for the former Piggly Wiggly site at the intersection of Sumar Street, Sam Rittenberg Boulevard and Old Towne Road in West Ashley. This rendering has buildings facing Sam Rittenberg.
BY MIKAELA PORTER
mporter@postandcourier.com
One of West Ashley’s corridors could see some new retail, restaurant and civic space. On Wednesday night, plans were presented for the old Piggly Wiggly triangle-shaped parcel formed by Sam Rittenberg Boulevard, Old Towne Road and Sumar Street.
The city owns the old grocery store’s property — now a 2.2-acre slab of pavement. The city purchased the site for $3 million in 2017 and demolished the store in 2018. Piggly Wiggly had been closed for nearly five years before the building was torn down.
Three designs were presented Wednesday night. All included plans for up to six buildings on the site, but the placements differed. Buildings either fronted Sumar Street, Old Towne Road or Sam Rittenberg Boulevard. All include parking and a public access tower for visitors to view the Ashley River.
In total, the buildings would account for between 50,000 and 60,000 square feet. One third would be for municipal use with an assembly area. Half of the site would be office space and another 10,000-square feet would be for retail and restaurants.
Mayor John Tecklenburg described the designs as ones that would create a sense of “place making” for West Ashley.
“This is going to create a space that will draw people in and will also serve as a real gateway, kind of an entrance to West Ashley that will be deserving of the site and deserving of West Ashley,” Tecklenburg said.
As for the publicly-owned building, Tecklenburg said he’s working with different partners to share space with the city.
Councilman Peter Shahid, who chairs the commission group tasked with West Ashley’s revitalization, favored the plans for buildings fronting Sam Rittenberg Boulevard because he feels it would be consistent with the height and density already along that corridor.
He’d like some of the municipal space used for city staff like the West Ashley manager, a police substation as well as an area for City Council to meet occasionally. Additionally, as the coronavirus pandemic has ushered in a different way to meet virtually, Shahid said the gathering space would be useful for West Ashley residents to meet and provide comment while Council meets downtown.
The plan with buildings fronting Sam Rittenberg Boulevard were favored Wednesday night. The tower and a water feature were noted as important design elements for members Charlie Smith and Kenneth Marolda, too.
City Planner Jacob Lindsey said Wednesday the plans align with the concerns residents shared at a widely attended meeting in 2018.
In October, the city sought proposals from design firms before selecting Liollio Architecture and Mount Pleasantbased Landmark Enterprises.
Liollio Architecture, based on James Island, also designed the new fire station on Savannah Highway, next to the memorial for the firefighters who died during the Sofa Super Store fire. Liollio is known for its history of civic architecture in West Ashley, Lindsey said. Landmark Enterprises purchased the Old City Jail from the city in the last six years and have a number of properties in the city and region.
“This will transform the Sam Rittenberg side of the site as well as the main entryway of West Ashley if it is built according to this plan,” Lindsey said.
Lindsey said it isn’t clear how the commercial spaces will be sold or leased. City Council will review and approve the plans before construction begins.
Warren Wise contributed to this report.
STUDIOLLIO
Mez Joseph
![2019-08-30 14.40.29[2].jpg](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/53177efde4b0cc8a54029a74/1586203409406-A8XI0Z1EQTP8EOD09PF4/2019-08-30+14.40.29%5B2%5D.jpg)
![2019-08-30 14.43.04[2].jpg](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/53177efde4b0cc8a54029a74/1586203439640-W83KFI23ZZ6DLKW70QUM/2019-08-30+14.43.04%5B2%5D.jpg)
#Studiollio - In the Fall of 2019, Liollio Principals Andy Clark and Jennifer Charzewski co-taught a firm design studio as lecturers for Clemson University’s School of Architecture at the Clemson Architecture Center in Charleston. Students experienced an academic design studio through the lens of a professional teaching studio. The studio explored the City of Charleston and it’s grappling with change due to climate, technology, population, economics and mobility. Students investigated critical issues with a focus on how design can improve resiliency and cultural connectivity within a city.
A vibrant city is a living, breathing organism, and the civic infrastructure and architecture connect the identity, aspirations, and human story of the occupants to each other and to the past, present, and future. Architecture is intrinsically linked to landscape architecture and site in a hybrid conversation, rather than two separate entities. Similarly, the infrastructure that connects and moves people should participate in this hybrid conversation, and can reveal the opportunities that exist to grow in healthy ways.
Programmatically, Charleston is also confronting a tenuous balance between the tourism industry which undergirds the city’s economy, and the desire to be a livable city for all residents. Whereas development in housing, retail, food service, and offices is booming, it is often the cultural institutions and public parks that really bring a city to life and give it depth and a voice to residents.
Charleston is home to many preeminent programs and buildings for the visual and performing arts, and includes an aquarium, a history museum, and a children’s museum. However, there is a notable absence of a museum or center for nature and science –which are both integral to life in the Lowcountry and to supporting workforce development and STEM education.
The design projects provided the students with an opportunity to investigate these ideas and opportunities, further refine their critical and strategic approach in an iterative design process across a variety of scales, and develop requisite design and presentation communication skills. As a firm-led studio, the unique perspective of a practicing firm provided opportunities to intersect the academy with practice, including connecting students to professional mentors and enriching the firm with academic investigation.
Liollio Team Members Respond to MUSC's Call for 3D Printed Masks
Mez Joseph
In a time when we are all looking for ways to support our community, Liollio is responding to a call for volunteers from AIA Charleston to provide 3-D printed masks designed by the Medical University of South Carolina. Liollio’s David Herrero, Associate AIA, and Mary Tran, Associate AIA, have relocated our 3D printer to their home office and have been printing the masks for delivery to MUSC to support the cause. The effort is being coordinated by Grant Gilmore, Director of the Master of Arts in Community Planning, Policy, and Design program at the College of Charleston.
With the threat of a shortage of protective masks looming as the novel coronavirus pandemic grows, Medical University of South Carolina biomedical engineers and tinkerers had an inspired idea: unleash an army of makers from across the U.S. who could make such masks from 3D printers.
In a matter of days, a team came together and developed the Self-Assembly Filtration for Emergencies, or SAFE, Cartridge System. The system could be used by medical professionals or by people who just need to go to the grocery store. The MUSC team has been in contact with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to obtain emergency approval of the device.
Our goal is to produce and deliver 10 SAFE masks this week, which take about 13 hours each to print. The SAFE system is printed on a 3D printer out of PLA plastic and has a reusable mask piece that comes in three different sizes: S,M, & L. The second piece is a disposable HEPA filter cartridge that works with all three mask sizes. The HEPA cartridge and masks can be printed and assembled with commonly used items that can be bought at local hardware stores in cases of emergencies.
If you have a 3D printer and are interested in assisting with printing, please respond to ashley@ajarch.net.
To learn more about MUSC’s team and their plans for 3D printed masks visit: https://web.musc.edu/about/news-center/2020/03/26/3d-printed-masks-developed-at-medical-university-of-south-carolina
Spotlight On: Lance Eubanks
Mez Joseph
Liollio is pleased to welcome Lance Eubanks, Associate AIA, LEED AP, to our design studio! A native of Mississippi, Lance completed his Bachelor of Architecture at Mississippi State University. Prior to joining Liollio, Lance worked as a Project Manager and Project Architect with ZGF Architects in Washington DC. After giving Lance 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?
A little over two months.
Where did you grow up?
About five miles outside of Lucedale, Mississippi – a tiny town near the Gulf Coast.
Are you married? Children?
Not married, but I moved here with my partner, Justin.
What is your favorite nonliving thing in your home?
I have a cedar chest that was originally my Great Aunt’s dowry chest from around 1930. It somehow made its way to me. It’s moved with me everywhere I’ve been since college, and I would probably try to carry it out if my house caught on fire.
What do you like to do when you have free time?
Social distancing has taught me that I need more hobbies. I try to spend as much time outside as possible. Virtual game nights and cooking keep me going while I’m stuck in the house.
Do you have any pets? If so, tell us a bit about them.
We have a dog named Bee. She’s an eight year old Beagle mix, and she will literally never turn down an offer for someone to pet her. She’ll let you go for three hours straight if you’re up for it.
What architect or architecture firm most influenced you as a student?
I have always loved Tadao Ando’s work. What he does with natural light in his projects, in the simplest way possible, has always amazed me.
What is your favorite place you have traveled to and why?
Florence, Italy has to be my favorite. Ankara, Turkey is probably the most interesting place I’ve been.
What is your favorite thing about working at Liollio?
When I was moving to Charleston and looking for a job, I read a few of the Spotlight On posts on the Liollio website. Everyone said that their favorite thing about working here is the people. Well, they were right. I have been blown away at how many awesome people I get to work with.
What inspires you most?
People. All of them. Everyone has an interesting perspective to offer to the world.
What is your favorite restaurant?
So far, Leon’s on King Street is my favorite Charleston spot, but there are so many more places to try.
What’s your favorite place in Charleston?
The beach at Sullivan’s Island at sunset has been my happy place so far.
What is your favorite food?
I could eat seafood every day for the rest of my life. Let’s hope I don’t get mercury poisoning.
What is your least favorite food?
I’ll eat almost anything, but the sight of blue cheese is sickening to me.
Do you play any instruments?
I was in the band in high school, and I played the trombone. It’s been a really long time since I’ve played though.
Who or what is your favorite musical artist or genre?
So, I like a lot of musicians, but Dolly Parton definitely has the number one spot. She’s a great songwriter, and she has this warm and positive personality that is infectious.
Favorite television show?
Law & Order (original) is always on the DVR. The Sopranos was fantastic. Right now, we’re watching The Crown, Schitt’s Creek, and Grace and Frankie.
Last book you read?
Educated by Tara Westover.
Last movie you watched?
The Irishman
Favorite movie or genre?
The Godfather is a classic.
Are you messy or organized?
The kitchen is spotless. Sometimes the closet overflows.
Do you have a favorite newspaper, blog or website?
I love local news. I got a subscription to the Post and Courier before I moved here. I also really enjoy reading CityLab online.
If you could interview one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
Betty White
If you could witness any historical event, what would you want to see?
The March on Washington in 1963 must have been a truly amazing sight.
What would the book or movie about your life be called?
Life of a Klutz: How to Get Back Up Again
What’s your astrological sign?
I’m a Capricorn. I don’t think it matters, but I’ll still read a horoscope every now and again.
What is your personal philosophy?
Treat others well.
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without?
My people. I’ve always thought this, but recent events have completely reinforced that for me.
What does true leadership mean to you?
Empowering the people around you to be their best self and do their best at whatever they are doing.
If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?
It’s a toss-up between a chef and a retirement home activity director.
How do you define success?
Being happy, healthy, and engaged.
Liollio Zoom Happy Hour
Mez Joseph
In the midst of challenging times, it’s been wonderful to see our team remain connected and full of energy and positivity. Our studio has been blessed to be able to work remotely - and in the spirit of connectivity, we all joined together for a Zoom Happy Hour. We hope you and your loved ones remain healthy and happy!
Water Mission Virtual Walk for Water
Mez Joseph
The Liollio team is proud to have participated in this year's virtual Water Mission Charleston Walk for Water. The virtual walk took place in multiple locations and participants united by a common purpose. We walked a 3-mile route in our neighborhoods and local communities, considering those who make that walk daily to retrieve water for their family. Learn how you can help generate awareness for the global water crisis and help make a difference by visiting watermission.org! #2020VirtualWalkCHS
USCB Hilton Head Hospitality Management Campus Featured in Local Life Magazine
Mez Joseph
LOCAL Life Magazine, a publication celebrating the stories, culture, and people that make Hilton Head, Beaufort & Bluffton SC unique, showcases the University of South Carolina-Beaufort's Hilton head Hospitality Management Campus as a backdrop to a fashion shoot, while providing details on the building’s design. Visit www.locallifesc.com for more.
2020 Liollio Team Oyster Roast
Mez Joseph
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!
Liollio Toasts Team Member Aaron Bowman
Mez Joseph
The Liollio team celebrated Aaron Bowman, AIA, with a toast to commemorate his American Institute of Architects (AIA) National 2020 Young Architect Award. Congratulations to Aaron and all of this years recipients!
Liollio Architecture’s Aaron Bowman Receives AIA National Young Architect Award
Mez Joseph
Liollio Architecture’s Aaron Bowman Receives AIA National Young Architect Award
Read MoreLiollio’s Joshua Putnam Achieves Architectural Licensure
Mez Joseph
Liollio Architecture is pleased to congratulate Joshua Putnam, AIA, for earning his architectural licensure and becoming a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), a professional organization for architects in the United States. A registered architect must complete an internship and pass a rigorous series of examinations offered by official architectural registration boards in the United States and Canada. The Liollio team celebrates Joshua and his achievement.
A native of North Carolina, Joshua completed his Bachelor of Architecture and his Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture at North Carolina State University. He also studied Industrial Drafting & Design at Appalachian State University. Prior to joining Liollio, Joshua worked as a Project Designer with Craig Dean Architecture in Raleigh NC and honed his skills as a woodworker across the United States.