we’re a tight consulting team with collaborative chops.
Karen L. Braitmayer, FAIA
Principal
Karen Braitmayer is the founder and managing principal of Studio Pacifica. Under her leadership and direction, the firm has grown in stature and scope over the 20-plus years. Early in her career, it occurred to Karen that—as an architect and a wheelchair user—it was possible for her to make a unique contribution to the field. Her professional focus on accessibility and her advocacy efforts for inclusion certainly did just that.
As a registered architect, Karen was admitted to the prestigious College of Fellows by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). In 2019, national AIA honored Karen Braitmayer with the prestigious Whitney M. Young Jr. Award. She was the first architect with a disability to be so honored. The award recognizes architects who “embody social responsibility and actively address a relevant issue”.
Karen was appointed by President Barack Obama to the United States Access Board in 2010, and she served in that position until July 2023. She is also an active volunteer and non-profit board member.
Education + Licensure:
Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science, Rice University
Master of Architecture, University of Houston
Registered Architect: WA, OR, PA, VA
NCARB Certification
ICC certified Accessibility Inspector/Plans Examiner
APA Built Environment Certification
In personal life:
Karen is an avid knitter, sailor, traveler. Free time is spent with her husband, daughter, and many friends.
Shelton Ensley, AIA
Accessibility Specialist
Shelton Ensley brings a wealth of architectural experience and business acumen to Studio Pacifica. Having worked on many a dynamic, high-profile project, Shelton excels as a team manager (and motivator). He’s also skilled at establishing and maintaining strong client relations. Prior to joining the Studio Pacifica team, Shelton was the founding principal of a design firm in California that provided architecture and interior design expertise as well as project management and landscape planning services.
Education + Licensure:
Bachelor of Arts in Art History, University of Washington
Master of Architecture, University of Houston
Registered Architect: CA
In personal life:
Shelton is an enthusiast cook who also likes to build furniture, paint, play piano, and garden.
Joyce Klontz, AIA
Senior Accessibility Specialist
Joyce Klontz is a registered architect with almost 30 years experience as a design and planning professional. As a creative problem solver, Joyce’s ability to manage multiple projects concurrently is stellar. Her high-proficiency with CAD also makes her a critical part of the Studio Pacifica team. Prior to joining our firm, Joyce was the group manager for project management at the University of Washington.
Education + Licensure:
Bachelor of Architecture, University of Idaho
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, University of Washington
Registered Architect: WA
In personal life:
As a Seattle native, Joyce is a major Mariners fan. She’s also big on traveling and exploring new places (both urban and natural).
Andrea Kovich, ADAC
Senior Accessibility Specialist
Andrea Kovich has more than 15 years of experience in the architecture field, including over 10 years as an accessibility consultant with Studio Pacifica. Her primary focus is reviewing new construction drawing sets for compliance with codes and guidelines. Andrea’s professional experience in theatre and her passion for inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of theater bring a heightened awareness to our team. As a wheelchair user, Andrea brings her personal experience to all endeavors.
Education + Licensure:
Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies, University of Washington
Masters of Arts in Theatre Arts, San Diego State University
ADA Coordinator (ADAC)
ICC certified Accessibility Inspector/Plans Examiner
In personal life:
Andrea is a writer and a member of Literary Managers and Dramaturges of the Americas. When she has time, Andrea also practices Pilates, sails, and bakes treats.
Morgan Tweed, IAAP CPACC
Accessibility Specialist
Morgan Tweed joined Studio Pacifica after completing both an architecture and a landscape architecture degree—an accomplishment enhanced by years of community and academic advocacy in support of accessibility and equity. Today, Morgan’s primary focus at the firm is reviewing new construction drawing sets for compliance with codes and guidelines. As a wheelchair user and a person with a visual impairment, they bring a critical perspective to the team.
Education + Licensure:
Bachelor of Arts in Education, University of Arizona
Master of Architecture, Iowa State University
Master of Landscape Architecture, Iowa State University
In personal life:
If it’s in the realm of art, Morgan does it: painting, writing, baking, creating. His free time is spent reuniting lost pets with their people.
Joyce Wheeler, ADAC
Project Manager
Joyce Wheeler is the project management lead for Studio Pacifica. Her primary responsibilities include proposal drafting, scheduling, managing status of in-house projects, contract coordination, and acquiring necessary documentation for all new and active projects. She also provides onsite walk-throughs and project documentation. Joyce’s experience working with students with disabilities and athletes in adaptive sports contributes to our overall consulting strength.
Education + Licensure:
ADA Coordinator (ADAC)
In personal life:
Joyce is the mother of a wheelchair user and former Paralympic swimmer. She’s also quite crafty and enjoys throwing a great party.
K Wheeler, ADAC
Marketing Coordinator
As the marketing coordinator for Studio Pacifica, K Wheeler is critical to the assembly of proposals and marketing materials. They also support the team by communicating with clients and providing general administrative assistance. Prior to Studio Pacifica, K established an impressive record of leadership within organizations dedicated to disability rights. As a person with a disability, K brings their personal perspective on equity to the team.
Education + Licensure:
Bachelor of Arts in Law, Societies and Justice + Disability Studies, University of Washington
ADA Coordinator (ADAC)
In personal life:
K’s a big fan of listening to audiobooks (as in a couple hundred a year). They’re also into listening to and watching Broadway musicals. Building Lego sets is another favorite pastime—as is crafting.