Nicole McNeal, DeStefano Architects

Portsmouth, NH DeStefano Architects (D|A) recently welcomed Nicole McNeal, a recent graduate of Endicott College’s interior design program, as a full time employee of the firm. McNeal has longstanding familiarity with D|A’s operations, having been a frequent seasonal intern. McNeal’s role as an interior design project manager will enhance D|A’s practice. She is currently collaborating with other D|A designers on the new Monarch School of New England High School and Vocational Center in Rochester and interior renovations of the historic Middle Street Baptist Church in downtown Portsmouth. Nicole is also lending her expertise to numerous residential design projects underway at D|A.

McNeal holds a bachelor of science in Interior Design from Endicott College, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. During her time at school, she was a member of the Endicott College Interior Design student organization and was nominated for a student design award by the International Interior Design Association. McNeal was also acknowledged for her work in a student design competition hosted by the Angelo Donghia Foundation, established by one of the country’s most influential interior designers.

McNeal’s senior thesis - a multi-sensory design for a high school that caters to the visually impaired - received glowing accolades after one year’s worth of research and design. Lisa DeStefano, founder and principal architect of D|A served as McNeal’s thesis advisor for the year. “She challenged herself in ways that took the project to a higher level than expected” says DeStefano of McNeal’s thesis. “I am so excited to see Nicole use her formal education and practical knowledge in her new full-time professional capacity”.

DeStefano Architects is an award-winning architectural design firm in Portsmouth, N.H. and has over 20 years of experience in the New England area, specializing in custom residential design and commercial architecture.