Fostering an Environment for Creativity and Collaboration
At Sweet Sparkman, our team thrives on a collaborative, inclusive approach to design. We foster an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, drawing on the unique experiences and skills of our team members to enrich every project. With backgrounds spanning 18 nationalities and fluency in nine languages, our team is a reflection of the communities we serve. This diversity, combined with expertise in areas like sustainability, construction administration, and 3D visualization, ensures that each project benefits from both innovative thinking and technical precision. We take pride in cultivating a workplace culture that encourages creativity, teamwork, and professional growth.
Our team is united by a shared commitment to delivering meaningful, community-oriented design. Whether working on a performing arts center, public park, or fire station, we approach each project with the same dedication to quality and collaboration. By blending fresh perspectives from emerging talent with seasoned insights from experienced professionals, we achieve designs that are both visionary and practical. This dynamic environment allows us to consistently exceed client expectations, offering solutions that are responsive, resilient, and deeply rooted in their context. At Sweet Sparkman, we believe that great design comes from a strong team and an unwavering focus on the people and places we serve.
Our People
SHANE LAmay, AIA, NCARB
Karl Bernhard, AIA
John Bryant, AIA, LEED AP
Jerry Sparkman, AIA, NCARB
Todd Sweet, AIA, LEED AP
Leadership
← ALL TEAM
Lissette Callejas,
CPSM
Ram venkat, AIA
Owen McCormick, Associate AIA
Laura Lozano, Associate AIA
ELIZABETH LEE, ASSOCIATE AIA
COLE MEARS, AIA
CARLOS FLOREZ, Associate AIA
Architecture
← ALL TEAM
Paige BeBout
Marcus peduzzi, aia
Alexis Castro, SCA
Allison McClure, AIA
Warren Teague
Valentina Mancera
Nicole Ruiz, Associate AIA
Abigail Korn, Associate AIA, GGEP
Kevin Tenor, Associate AIA
Daniel Rivero-Gonzalez
Megan Suau, RA
Maria Ceban, Associate AIA, LEED Green Associate
Eddie Kaufman
Rob Harrison,
AIA
beata bziuk,
associate aia
Lauren "Tripp" Trippiedi
Gaurang Pawar, Associate AIA
Mahdi ahmed, RA
Garrett klingaman
The founder of Sweet Sparkman, Todd was born and raised in the Northeast, where he received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Roger Williams University. Todd spent his internship at Arquitectonica in Miami, Florida, where he worked on projects throughout Europe, South America, and the United States. In 2002, Todd started the firm TOTeMS Architecture (the original firm name). In 2004, he partnered with Jerry Sparkman to form Sweet Sparkman Architects. The firm has built a national reputation for design excellence and has been asked to participate in La Venice Biennale, a bi-annual architecture exhibit in Venice, Italy. In his 20 years of practice, Todd has enjoyed the study of simple building volumes and the exploitation of materials in an unconventional fashion. Municipal planning and architecture are Todd's award-winning specialty.
Todd Sweet, AIA, LEED AP
Jerry Sparkman, a founding principal of Sweet Sparkman Architecture, has been crafting resilient, thoughtful designs since the firm's inception in 2002. His work reflects a deep understanding of the coastal environment, emphasizing the integration of local culture, history, and long-term community growth. Jerry’s design philosophy—“respect the land and the people, and the rest will follow”—is exemplified in projects like The Bay Park in Sarasota, where he has merged innovative design with environmental stewardship to create vibrant public spaces. His portfolio spans high-end residential projects, public parks, higher education facilities, and community spaces, all shaped by active listening and a meticulous approach to financial, physical, social, and environmental factors. With a belief that nature provides unlimited inspiration, Jerry continues to create spaces that harmonize with their surroundings while meeting the needs of diverse communities.
Jerry Sparkman, AIA, NCARB
John Bryant, AIA, LEED AP
After receiving a degree in music at Grinnell College, John received his Master of Architecture from the University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation in 2007. At the University of Maryland, he received the Dean's Thesis Award and the 2007 David M. Schwarz Traveling Fellowship, which allowed for thesis research in Japan.
No one benefited more than Sweet Sparkman Architecture and Interiors when John and his family decided to move to Sarasota. His highly effective design and project management skills were instrumental in projects such as the Ringling College of Art + Design's Basch Visual Arts Center, Fruitville Elementary, and the New College Master Plan. His work with the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion has earned two awards: 2015 Florida Association of AIA: Merit Award for an Object for the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion's picnic shelter and a Finalist for the SRQ Magazine: Building of the Year. His work on Fruitville Elementary has earned the firm the coveted national 2017 Brick in Architecture Award K-12 given by the Brick Industry Association. John's prolific body of work during this period compelled the Florida / Caribbean AIA jury to award Sweet Sparkman the 2018 Firm of the Year.
Karl Bernhard, AIA
Karl Bernhard grew up in New Orleans, where the city's rich architectural history and vulnerable, storm-prone environment shaped his early passion for resilient design. Inspired by the interplay between urban life and the surrounding swamplands, Karl developed a fascination with how the built environment can respond to and reflect nature. This connection drove him to pursue architecture from a young age, blending creativity with an understanding of place, emotion, and function.
Now based in Sarasota for over a decade, Karl continues to focus on designs that balance resilience, sustainability, and human-centered experience. He’s a mentor, collaborator, and active member of the AIA, committed to shaping the next generation of architects. Outside the studio, Karl finds inspiration in martial arts, inline skating, and exploring nature with his family—pursuits that echo his ongoing search for harmony between the human and natural worlds.
Shane LaMay, AIA, NCARB
Shane LaMay, a rare Florida native, attended the University of Florida, graduating with a degree in Architecture. He studied at the Vicenza Institute of Architecture in Vicenza, Italy, before returning to earn his Master's degree from the University of Florida Citylab, in Sarasota. Shane interned at Sweet Sparkman while attending Citylab, producing work so exemplary that his role evolved into a permanent position, and ultimately, a partnership.
As a Principal of the firm, Shane leads a diverse portfolio spanning coastal, residential, and cultural projects, with a particular affinity for work that is deeply rooted in place and community. A respected voice in Sarasota's built environment, he serves as a member of the City of Sarasota Planning Board. His dog Guinness remains a beloved fixture of studio life at Sweet Sparkman.
Ram Venkat, AIA
Ram views the architectural process as a bridge between structural beauty and human connection, believing that the strongest foundations are built through great relationships. He harnesses the power of design to shape physical environments that do more than occupy space—they actively support and improve lives while giving back to the community.
This philosophy is most evident in his work within higher education, where design must serve a vast and diverse set of stakeholders. By creating versatile environments where people can interact, collaborate, learn, work, and play, Ram strives to develop academic spaces that foster both individual growth and collective progress.
Lissette Callejas, CPSM
Lissette holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from the Ringling College of Art + Design. Over the years, she has gravitated towards the business and marketing side of the architecture and design industry. Lissette ran her own interiors business for seven years and has brought that experience to Sweet Sparkman Architects. She now serves as the Marketing Manager.
Originally from Puerto Rico, Lissette grew up in Pennsylvania and moved to Sarasota in 2007 to pursue her education at Ringling College. She quickly fell in love with the vibrant arts culture and architectural history of Sarasota. With the perfect weather and pristine beaches Sarasota offered, she decided to move permanently.
Besides architecture and design, her interests are socializing, cooking, boating, traveling, and cars. Above all, she loves spending time with two children, husband, and her two long-haired dachshunds, Marco and Polo. She believes in the power of a delicious meal and a good bottle of wine to bring people together.
Carlos Flórez, Associate AIA
Born and raised in Bogotá, Carlos Flórez earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the National University of Colombia and gained his initial professional experience working in residential and commercial projects. During the last 14 years, Carlos has been working in Sarasota on numerous commercial projects, including the addition and renovation of the Florida Studio Theatre, several residential projects from single-family homes to condominiums, and the improvement throughout the state of multiple facilities of the Florida Department of Health.
Carlos enjoys movies, history, traveling, and swimming. He loves spending time at home with his wife and their two daughters.
Cole Mears, AIA
Cole is a Florida native who discovered architecture unexpectedly during his undergraduate studies—and instantly knew it was the right path. He earned his Master of Architecture from the University of South Florida, where he developed a deep interest in semiotics and human-centered design. With a background in team sports and a strong collaborative mindset, Cole found a natural fit at Sweet Sparkman, where he contributes to a wide range of public projects with a focus on community impact and experiential design.
Cole brings a human-first approach to architecture, drawing influence from thinkers and practitioners such as Jan Gehl, Peter Zumthor, and Juhani Pallasmaa. He sees architecture as a communicative art—one that operates through both conscious and unconscious interpretation—and is passionate about creating spaces that are enriching, expressive, and grounded in their cultural and physical context. Now with over six years at the firm, Cole continues to enjoy the collaborative design process and often plays a mentoring role, helping to guide and support younger team members.
Outside the studio, Cole channels his creativity through cooking, visual arts, and a lifelong appreciation for music, cinema, and graphic design. He views all creative disciplines as connected by a shared energy and curiosity—and sees architecture as one of many expressions of that artistic impulse.
Elizabeth Lee, Associate AIA
Elizabeth received her Master of Architecture from Florida International University in Miami. After working for two years at a small firm, she was ready to leave the madness of Miami. She moved back to the Sarasota / Bradenton area, where she grew up. Elizabeth has comprehensive experience in design and construction documents and client consultations. She brings this experience to Sweet Sparkman’s large-scale commercial projects, incorporating her environment design experience into every project. With her strong problem-solving skills and team player ability, she is a seamless fit at Sweet Sparkman.
When she isn’t working, Elizabeth enjoys hiking and martial arts. She has achieved a 3rd Dan Black Belt Ming Wu and a 1st Dan Black Belt Hwa Rang Do.
Laura Lozano, Associate AIA
Born in Mexico, Laura moved to Miami, Florida with her family when she was 12 years old. During and following achieving her Master’s in Architecture from the University of South Florida, she served as a graduate teaching assistant and then researcher in urban architecture. School and work took her to cities across the United States and the world. Travel has played an important role in her life, being able to experience different types of architecture and peoples’ culture.
Now settled in Saint Petersburg, Florida, she takes particular enjoyment in residential design, where she can work closely with clients on every aspect of their new homes but also serving in her role across Sweet Sparkman’s broad range of projects.
When not working, she enjoys going to the beach, kayaking and all things outdoors with her family.
Owen McCormick, Associate AIA
Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Owen earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Auburn University, where he was a participant in the school’s third year Rural Studio Program—an immersive design-build program focused on community-based architecture in rural Alabama. That early experience continues to inform his interest in public architecture with purpose and impact.
At Sweet Sparkman, Owen focuses primarily on large-scale public work, with a particular emphasis on educational facilities. He combines a strong technical foundation with a refined visual sensibility, often producing high-quality renderings and videos that help bring designs to life for clients and communities. Whether managing complex programmatic needs or visualizing a building’s final form, Owen brings precision and clarity to each project.
A committed outdoorsman, Owen takes full advantage of Florida’s landscape—hiking, biking, and pursuing his favorite pastime: amateur birdwatching. This deep appreciation for the natural world shapes his approach to architecture, reminding him of the broader environments in which buildings exist and the people they serve.
Allison McClure, AIA
A native of Gallipolis, Ohio, Allison holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Architecture from Kent State University. Her education was augmented by a three-month internship at a residential architecture firm on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, as well as a summer internship and fall co-op primarily working on retail architecture in Cleveland. Upon graduation, she moved to Naples, Florida, lured by the Gulf and its beaches.
Allison was attracted to Sweet Sparkman by the variety of work and the “spark” that ignited when she met partners Todd and John. Getting a family vibe from the organization, she was happy to join the staff, initially tackling several large commercial projects.
Alexis Castro, SCA
Alexis Castro grew up in Medellin, Colombia, where he graduated from Pontifical Bolivarian University (UPB) with a Bachelor's in Architecture and Urbanism. He is a passionate and awarded architect with a long and prolific practice, successfully conceiving and planning architecture and interior design projects in Canada, the USA, the UK, India, the Caribbean, and South America.
He and his wife love to travel around the world and learn about different cultures, their people, and architecture. He also enjoys being with his two dogs, nature, music, reading, exercise, and fishing.
Marcus Peduzzi, AIA
Marcus is a Bradenton native who earned his Master of Architecture from the University of South Florida. After beginning his career at Wilder Architecture, he moved to Austin, Texas, where he worked on a range of commercial and residential projects. In 2020, he returned to Florida with his wife and son to be closer to family before joining Sweet Sparkman.
Marcus has a clear eye for honest materials and straightforward construction methods. He values simplicity, precision, and the satisfaction that comes from making things—whether they’re buildings or something else entirely. His approach is grounded in practicality, shaped more by a respect for process than by any specific design dogma.
Outside the office, Marcus enjoys mountain biking and frequently rides the trails at Alafia State Park.
Paige BeBout
Originally from Cincinnati, OH, Paige relocated to Tampa, FL to achieve a master’s degree in Advanced Architecture from the University of South Florida. While studying abroad in Greece and Italy, she explored Venice, Rome, Verona, Tuscany, and lived for over a month in Florence. These travels expanded her view of the world and love of architecture.
Paige finds her work at Sweet Sparkman’s to be immensely gratifying, especially when seeing the joy and excitement a client expresses when the team brings a desired design to life. She continues to evolve her architectural style by further developing her knowledge in the field through her career.
Paige now resides in Bradenton, FL where enjoys spending time with friends and family. Outside of work, she loves being outdoors and is a dedicated competitive swimmer.
Warren Teague
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Warren earned a bachelor’s degree with 1st Class Honors from the University of Glamorgan. From there, he went on to complete his master’s from the University of the West of England where he graduated with Distinction. He’s currently enrolled at Boston Architectural College, working towards a master’s in architecture.
Over the course of his 15-year career, Warren has acquired a breadth of experience in helping clients with commercial, civic, and residential architecture projects, such as schools, libraries, offices, leisure facilities, healthcare and home design. He approaches projects with a simple and honest design style that is sustainable, respectful to the community, and ultimately reflects the clients’ goals.
Warren currently resides in Sarasota, FL. As a Welshman, he loves watching his home nation play Rugby, as well as enjoys golfing, running, and spending time with his family.
Kevin Tenor, Associate AIA
A Miami, FL native, Kevin’s family relocated to Haiti when he was three years old before eventually moving back to the States after middle school. He holds an Associate degree in Architecture from Miami Dade College and earned his Master’s in Architecture from Florida International University.
Since childhood, Kevin has always had a fascination with houses and buildings. Daily, constant house sketching sketches were a hobby for him in these spaces while growing up. His design style is a combination of contemporary and minimalist mid-century modern. In his work, he loves the challenge of solving spatial issues with not too much emphasis on the design. He considers himself a minimalist, and he loves the challenge of solving spatial constraints.Kevin had the privilege of managing several K-8 educational projects throughout several counties in Florida. It is his current passion, and he finds pleasure in building safer schools for the kids in the community.
When he’s not working, Kevin enjoys creating music on the saxophone and piano. He also enjoys soccer with friends in the Tampa Bay area. He lives with his lovely wife and son in Ruskin, Florida.
Nicole Ruiz, Associate AIA
Nicole's path to architecture was guided by a childhood passion for art and numbers, rediscovered through a nostalgic note expressing her dream of becoming an architect. This revelation solidified her commitment to using architecture to positively impact communities through design. Nicole is dedicated to creating spaces that foster connection and community.
Inspired by the integration of form and function, her architectural style embodies modern aesthetics and sustainable principles inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright and contemporary sustainable design practices. While still exploring her niche within the field, Nicole finds inspiration in biophilic design and organic forms, striving to merge visual appeal with environmental consciousness. As a member of the AIA and young professionals groups, Nicole values community engagement, fostering both professional relationships and friendships that influence her multifaceted approach to architecture.
In her free time, Nicole enjoys playing volleyball and paddle boarding, activities that provide a balance to her professional life and inspire a holistic approach to design.
Valentina Mancera
Valentina's architectural path was influenced by her upbringing between Bogota, Colombia, and Sarasota, FL, which sparked her fascination with the contrasting built environments. Her academic career led her to Tulane University's School of Architecture, where her interest in 3D printing and sustainable design flourished. Valentina's passion lies in exploring how design influences human thought and behavior, particularly in sustainable and community-oriented projects.
Drawing inspiration from mid-century modernism and contemporary female architects like Lina Bo Bardi and Jeanne Gang, her architectural style reflects a blend of contemporary aesthetics with contextual sensitivity. Notable achievements include receiving the Alpha Rho Chi medal for leadership and recognition for her commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Beyond architecture, Valentina finds creative inspiration in watercolor painting and beadwork, fostering a fluid approach to design thinking. Her diverse interests and community engagement enrich her creative process, infusing her work with depth and perspective.
Daniel Rivero-Gonzalez
Daniel holds a Bachelor of Design and a Master of Architecture from the University of Florida. Inspired by his family’s background in construction—especially his mother’s work as an architect in Colombia—he developed a passion for architecture’s ability to shape communities. While living in Sarasota, he was drawn to the city's rich architectural history and the design philosophy of Sweet Sparkman, leading him to join the firm.
Daniel’s work is influenced by mid-century modern architecture, Scandinavian design, and the Sarasota School of Architecture, with a strong focus on urbanism and sustainability. His studio’s work on the Envision Resilience 2022 Narragansett Bay Challenge won a Student Award from the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Planning Association. Outside of architecture, Daniel enjoys music, playing guitar, reading, and drawing—creative pursuits that inform his holistic approach to design.
Li Si
Li Si is a project designer with a Master's degree from the University of Florida. Originally from China, she currently works at Sweet Sparkman Architecture and Interiors, seeking to expand her expertise in residential and public projects. She's particularly passionate about design and the creation of immersive architectural experiences.
Inspired by mid-century modernism and traditional Asian architecture, her style is self-described as "more is more." She draws influence from architects like Victor Lundy, Carlo Scarpa, Tadao Ando, and Antoni Gaudi. Li Si also enjoys hobbies like watercolor, oil painting, photography, and collecting mid-century modern furniture, which provide a unique perspective in her work.
Rob Harrison, AIA
Rob's diverse educational journey took him across the US, UK, and Australia, culminating in a Bachelor of Architecture from the Spitzer School of Architecture at the City College of New York. He has worked for Neil Pelone Architecture and several construction companies, gaining hands-on experience that informs his pragmatic design approach. Passionate about design and technical problem-solving, Rob enjoys working within constraints to create practical, economical, and beautiful solutions. His style is shaped by his love for woodworking and creative projects, such as building a 30' tree deck and an acoustic guitar. Notably, he conducted an independent study on a timber gridshell cabin, presenting his work at an international symposium. Recently moved to St. Petersburg, Rob is eager to engage with the local community and continues to draw inspiration from a variety of sources in his professional and personal life.
Eddie Kaufman
Eddie discovered his passion for creativity early on, initially dreaming of becoming a Disney animator before shifting his focus to architecture. With a background that includes a blend of commercial art training in high school and a B.Arch from Penn State University, Eddie has developed a deep love for residential architecture. At Sweet Sparkman, he aims to hone his skills in residential design, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life. Inspired by shape grammars, materiality, and atmosphere, Eddie's style merges elements from arts and crafts and brutalist architecture. Influenced by architects like Tadao Ando, Steven Holl, and Peter Zumthor, he believes in the principle that form follows function. Eddie's achievements include being a finalist in Penn State’s 3rd year Hajjar Design Competition and winning the Premio Piranesi Competition in Rome. Outside of architecture, Eddie enjoys drawing, cooking, reading, playing musical instruments, and staying active with sports, all of which contribute to his well-rounded approach to design.
Abigail Korn, Associate AIA, GGEP
Abigail’s journey into the architecture field was far from conventional, shaped by a diverse array of passions and experiences. Despite not being drawn to architecture from an early age, her immersion in music as a saxophonist and her dedication to competitive swimming underscored her affinity for both creativity and physical activity. Abigail's educational path at the University of Idaho took a turn towards architecture during her sophomore year, where a transformative design-build project constructing a winery tasting room ignited her passion for the field. This hands-on experience, combined with her background in marketing and graphic design, cultivated her unique perspective on architecture as a powerful tool for storytelling and brand representation.
Inspired by experiential design and the blurring of boundaries between the built environment and user experience, Abigail aspires to specialize in pop-up and flagship design, striving to create immersive spaces that resonate with a brand's ethos. Her admiration for architects like Madelynn Ringo and her belief in architecture as an experience rather than just a physical structure shape her design philosophy. Notable achievements, including winning the Pacific Northwest AIA Honor Award and contributing to various research projects and exhibitions, highlight Abigail's dedication to excellence.
Maria Ceban, Associate AIA, LEED Green Associate
Maria is an accomplished architectural designer with a strong focus on environmental sustainability. She holds an Honors Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Design and Technology and an Honors Master of Architecture from the Boston Architectural College. Maria's passion for architecture stems from her high school love for sciences, math, and art, all of which she finds beautifully integrated in the field of architecture. She is particularly enthusiastic about understanding client needs and translating them into user-friendly and comfortable spaces. Maria draws inspiration from 19th-century architecture, especially its ornamentation, materiality, and construction techniques, and strives to incorporate these elements into her modern work with a focus on sustainability. Influenced by the innovative work of MVRDV, she aims to reintroduce nature into urban environments. Maria has been recognized for her academic excellence with the Thesis Excellence Award and the 2021 Connecticut Green Building Award of Merit. Outside of architecture, she enjoys reading, horseback riding, traveling, and creating videos, all of which provide her with unique perspectives and creative insights that she applies to her professional work.
Megan Suau, RA
A Sarasota native, Megan's journey in architecture began over 15 years ago with her first internship at Sweet Sparkman. Her career has taken her across the country and abroad, where she has collaborated with architects, engineers, and builders on impactful projects that prioritize community-driven design. Now back in Sarasota, she brings a global perspective to her work, blending thoughtful storytelling with architecture that serves both people and place.
Megan believes buildings should transcend style and trends, instead reflecting the stories of those who build and use them. Her experience with Partners in Health and Dr. Paul Farmer in Rwanda reinforced her belief in architecture as a tool for transformative community impact, rooted in deep stakeholder engagement and long-term local commitment. In addition to her practice, Megan has shared her passion for design through teaching roles at the University of Virginia and the Boston Architectural College, furthering her commitment to shaping the next generation of architects.
Beata Bziuk, Associate AIA
Beata is a Senior Project Designer at Sweet Sparkman with over 25 years of experience in the architecture field. Originally from Poland, she moved to the U.S. at age 13 and earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Her career has spanned commercial and residential work, including supermarkets, warehouses, tenant fit-outs, and custom single-family homes. Beata is passionate about project management and the full lifecycle of design, from concept through construction. Inspired by modern architecture and the work of Frank Lloyd Wright, she values clean lines, geometric forms, and a strong connection between buildings and their environment. Her travels with family continue to influence her creative perspective and fuel her passion for site-sensitive design.
Mahdi Ahmed, RA
Mahdi is a licensed architect with international experience spanning Sudan, Egypt, Rwanda, and the United States. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Khartoum before completing a Master of Architecture at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Prior to joining Sweet Sparkman, Mahdi worked on community-focused housing projects in Boston and New York City, with an emphasis on resident health and social cohesion. His design philosophy is rooted in functionality, sustainability, and human-centered solutions, transforming ambitious ideas into practical spaces that enrich daily life. Outside of architecture, Mahdi enjoys sailing, cooking, and hosting friends and family—activities that reflect his passion for community and connection.
Gaurang Pawar
Gaurang is a Project Designer at Sweet Sparkman whose work balances community-scale impact with innovative design approaches. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Mumbai University, where he focused on large-scale public projects shaped by circulation and human movement, and later completed his Master of Architecture at the University of Cincinnati. There, he explored emerging tools such as AR, VR, AI, and digital fabrication, which expanded his perspective on experimentation in design. Influenced by architects like Charles Correa, Zaha Hadid, and Tadao Ando, Gaurang is passionate about creating spaces that people can truly experience—where light, shadow, and form guide movement and emotion. His style continues to evolve, but always begins with context and community at the core. Outside of architecture, he enjoys trekking, cooking, photography, adventure sports, and playing guitar—pursuits that fuel his creativity and broaden his perspective.
Lauren "Tripp" Trippiedi
Tripp is a Project Designer at Sweet Sparkman with a Master of Architecture from Norwich University in Vermont, where she also earned her Bachelor of Science in Architecture. Her studies included a formative year abroad in Berlin, Germany, that broadened her perspective on design. Originally from Manchester, New Hampshire, Tripp began her career working on K-12 and senior living projects before joining Sweet Sparkman. She is passionate about problem-solving and creating designs that are unique to each client, drawing inspiration from architects such as Carlo Scarpa. Outside of architecture, Tripp enjoys ice hockey, golf, ping pong, guitar, and cooking—pursuits that fuel her creativity and provide fresh perspectives. Her long-term goal is to become a licensed architect while continuing to design meaningful, client-focused spaces.
Garrett Klingaman
Garrett is a Project Designer at Sweet Sparkman whose path to architecture began after an earlier career in international trade and global relations. Following years of travel and professional experience abroad, he discovered his passion for architecture and earned his Master of Architecture from Kansas State University. His background gives him a unique perspective on design, combining cultural awareness with a deep appreciation for how the built environment shapes everyday life. Garrett has worked primarily on large-scale projects such as airports and stadiums, with a focus on wayfinding and intuitive spatial design. Inspired by early modernists like Eero Saarinen and Louis Kahn, he values architecture that enhances daily experience and fosters connection within communities. Outside of work, Garrett enjoys volleyball, kayaking, traveling, and cooking, pursuits that reflect his love of exploration, creativity, and nature.
Joyce Serrano
Born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, Joyce earned a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil and went on to complete a Master's in Interior Design at Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia.
Influenced by her master’s program, Joyce takes an Evidence-Based Design approach to her work, focusing on how the design of a space can positively impact and enhance the quality of daily life for people in places like schools and office environments. She is inspired by the modernist movement, its value on purity of materials, natural light, and the importance of functionality in design. By incorporating these elements and ideas, she creates spaces that have a meaningful impact on users.
Joyce currently lives in Sarasota, FL, having a love for coastal areas. In her space time, she enjoys painting, trying out new recipes, exploring new places, and spending time with family and friends.
Jaclyn Dinenberg, NCIDQ
Jaclyn is an NCIDQ-certified Commercial Interior Designer at Sweet Sparkman, bringing a passion for creating impactful spaces that resonate with people on both a local and global level. A Sarasota native, she holds a degree in Interior Design from the University of Florida and has spent the past five years focusing on workplace design. Jaclyn is excited to broaden her expertise and work on a variety of projects that contribute to her community. Her style is an eclectic blend of natural and bold elements inspired by her travels and experiences living in diverse locations. Outside of work, she enjoys playing competitive volleyball, traveling, and exploring her creative side through pottery, which continuously shapes her design approach and keeps her adaptable and open to new ideas.
Gabriela De Vasconcellos
Gabriela is a Commercial Interior Designer at Sweet Sparkman. A recent graduate of Florida State University’s Interior Design program, she began with the firm as a commercial interiors intern before joining full-time. Passionate about sketching and creative ideation, she thrives on developing her skills through diverse projects. Gabriela creates bold, colorful spaces that connect communities and foster a deeper relationship with their surroundings. Inspired by her love for traveling, Gabriela's eclectic style aims to bring people together. With a broad background in craftsmanship from pottery to stained glass, Gabriela brings a unique artistic perspective to her work.
Calvin Wren
As Marketing Coordinator, Calvin manages Sweet Sparkman’s architectural photography, website content, and visual storytelling. He oversees all photoshoots—coordinating with project teams and photographers to ensure each design is captured at its best—and often serves as the in-house photographer for smaller projects, events, and team headshots. Calvin is also responsible for maintaining the firm’s website, managing both content and functionality to keep the platform fresh, accurate, and aligned with the firm's evolving portfolio.
Calvin leads the creation and submission of all design award entries, developing compelling narratives and visuals that highlight the firm’s work at the local, state, and national levels. He also contributes to the preparation of RFPs and RFQs, assisting with formatting, graphics, and content strategy.
He holds a B.A. in Professional and Technical Communication from the University of South Florida, where he graduated magna cum laude. Outside the office, Calvin is a dedicated photographer and musician, often found behind the lens or playing guitar in his home studio.
Dina Berg
Working on the administrative side of the architectural field for the past six years, Dina enjoys the professional, creative atmosphere of the design world, and the fast-paced atmosphere of Sweet Sparkman. Dina graduated from St. Lawrence University and lived in the Northeast until moving to Florida in 2000. Outside of work, she enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her family.
Jerry Kozaka
In 2018, Jerry moved to Florida after living in Chicago for 20 years to find peace and enjoy the warm weather. Originally from Poland, Jerry studied civil engineering in his native country. However, his enjoyment of working with numbers eventually led him to accounting. As a result, he graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
He worked in accounting departments for a door and hardware distributor and for general contractors on many prestigious projects. As an Accounting Manager, Jerry likes working across a variety of tasks and collaborating with other team members within the bustling office setting.
When he’s not poring over mathematical formulas or diving into spreadsheets, Jerry can be found spending time with his family, going to the beach, or fishing with his son.
Nicole Walejnis
Nicole is a Staff Accountant at Sweet Sparkman, bringing a strong foundation in accounting and a commitment to continued learning. She holds an Associate’s degree in Accounting and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree while gaining hands-on experience in the field. Drawn to Sweet Sparkman for its dynamic, creative environment, Nicole is passionate about supporting the financial operations that help bring architectural projects to life. Her role allows her to apply her skills in budgeting, expense tracking, and financial planning within a team that values both innovation and precision. Outside of work, Nicole stays active through pickleball, running, yoga, cycling, and weightlifting—activities that reinforce her discipline and focus. Her background in community service, including volunteering at local libraries and churches, and her involvement in her school’s Honor Society, have helped shape her strong work ethic and collaborative approach.
Email your resume and portfolio to info@sweetsparkman.com
Sweet Sparkman is a dynamic firm where architects, designers, and thinkers come together to shape spaces that inspire. We offer opportunities to work on award-winning projects, leveraging cutting-edge tools and innovative approaches. Alongside experienced professionals and emerging talent, you’ll find a workplace committed to excellence, professional growth, and creating designs that leave a lasting impact. Join us and help shape the future of architecture and design.
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