2025 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Zachary Silvia, DJSA Architects

“Zach Silvia is an industry leader because he brings a calm, steady presence, sharp intuition, and strong decision-making ability. He has owned every project from day one and dives deep into challenges, not just at the surface level. He takes the time to understand the underlying what, why, and how before making decisions. His clarity, drive, and thoughtful leadership set the standard at DJSA.”

What recent accomplishment or initiative are you most proud of, and what impact did it have on your firm, clients, or community? One recent accomplishment I’m most proud of is DJSA’s involvement in the Love Farms project in West Dennis. This is a 10,000 s/f farm-to-table restaurant where food, community, and Cape Cod’s natural beauty come together. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. In addition to gathering for celebrations, concerts, and workshops, you can tour the fields. The client’s vision for involving local farmers, vendors, artists, and musicians is inspiring. What stands out to me isn’t just the design itself, but how the process strengthened our relationship with the client as a trusted partner.

What daily habit or routine helps you stay focused or motivated as a leader? One daily habit that helps me stay focused and motivated is getting into the office early.

Who has had the greatest impact on your career or leadership journey? I’ve had many mentors throughout my career. The greatest impact has been my father.

What advice would you share with emerging professionals striving to become future leaders in commercial real estate? Build strong relationships, take full ownership of your actions, and always understand the “why” behind what you’re doing. Don’t just go through the motions, ask questions, seek clarity, and connect your work to the bigger picture. Just as important, never underestimate the power of active listening. Really listening to colleagues, clients, and mentors not only helps you grow, it shows that you value their perspectives. When you combine that mindset with a clear sense of purpose and accountability, you lay the foundation for impactful leadership.