Pittsburgh Region

Design creative with over 23 years experience in both commercial and residential markets, but found my true passion to be in Hospitality Design. Evolving over the years to a Senior Level Lead Hospitality Designer I developed & promoted a creative VISION to diverse groups of clients and Brands alike. My typical day involved many skill sets including networking, marketing, leadership, collaboration, production and management of the design solution as well as the specification, procurement and installation of interior architectural finish & furnishing packages that successfully REVEAL themselves in an extensive repertoire of projects that have earned favorable accolades including two NEWH Top ID awards as well as provided valuable experiences and built lasting relationships along the journey. In 2018 I sought change and new challenges in a career redirection within the A&D industry as an Account Executive with MDC Interior Solutions covering Pennsylvania (sans Greater Philadelphia) and West Virginia, which has proven to be equally fulfilling in different ways.

Mark is a tenured C Suite Design Executive with extensive experience in Hospitality, Contract and Healthcare projects throughout the US, Canada, Caribbean, and other destinations. Notable Regional Projects include Mylan, Consol Energy World Headquarters, Washington Health System, Matthews World Headquarters, Southpointe Country Club, and many Hotel and Restaurant Projects. Mark holds Degrees in Business, Psychology, and MBA from California University of PA and Interior Design from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. Over 35 years of experience in the Pittsburg Region as Owner of Connected Office, Mark Stephen Design, Watermark Gallery, CEO of HFD, and currently COO & Chief Design Officer of Cities Edge Architects, which is a dedicated Hospitality Provider of Architecture, Interior Design and Procurement. Happily married to my wife Kim for 38 years and dad to my Iggy Juno.

Michelle earned a bachelor’s degree in interior design from La Roche University and a Master of Science degree in interior architecture from Chatham University. Initially starting out as a residential designer, her career opportunities grew to also include kitchen & bath design, commercial work in the hospitality industry, historic preservation and education. As a designer, Michelle enjoys meeting new people, solving problems creatively, and seeing the results of hard work. As an educator, she is passionate about how students learn and guiding them to the career path of their dreams. As an educational leader, Michelle anticipates adapting to new challenges and strengthening interior design education for all students. Her passion for education stems from a love of lifelong learning and helping other learners build strong foundational skills at all levels. As a designer and educator with over 23 years of experience, she is thrilled to join NEWH Pittsburgh Region’s Steering Committee as Scholarship Chair.

As I was growing up, I always had a passion for design but it wasn’t until my college studies in interior design that I discovered something I genuinely enjoy. To me, interior design is about forming a space that is functional for the user while also creating a memorable experience. I learned a quote my freshman year from Frank Loyd Wright that I always think of while starting a new project. He states, “Form follows function – that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.” Anyone can design a beautiful space, but if the design is not functional for the user I consider that design to be a failure. Along with a purposeful design, I find my inspiration for design in everyday life, my travels, and nature. Furthermore, I believe in biophilic design and creating healthy environments for all people. If I can create a space that can positively impact people in some way, I will feel like I have successfully impacted the design industry and the world we live in.

Sales professional with over 23 years of experience both commercially & residentially with 10 years of experience focused on the flooring industry. I obtained my Master of Science in Marketing and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Robert Morris University in Moon Township, PA. I started my career as a Property Manager for an apartment association and soon found my way to selling apartment advertising for Homes & Land magazine, selling landscaping contracts for JML Landscape, sold plumbing and excavation services in Chicago, Illinois for Roto Rooter and currently creating custom carpets for Durkan Hospitality. I’ve chaired many committees throughout my tenure and have held several Board positions. I am very excited for the opportunity to serve NEWH, Pittsburgh in being responsible for Social Media and assisting with planning local events for our chapter.