Dean is an architectural design leader specialized in mixed-use, multi-family residential projects in greater NYC area, with twenty years of experience in architecture, planning and construction in US and Asia.

Prior to starting L+Z, Dean was Director of Planning at a prominent architectural firm in NYC, Dean’s responsibilities range from feasibility study, including zoning, massing and planning for new development, to building plan layout and design, with a strong focus on NYC zoning resolution and building code. His portfolio includes numerous significant multi-family and mixed-use developments in NYC area, as well as project with 421a program and inclusionary housing program.

Dean earned both his Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Architecture degrees from Hanyang University in Seoul, Korea. He also received Master of Interior Design degree from Pratt Institute. He is also a LEED Accredited Professional.  

Jie believes good architecture provides unique experiences that people can relate to. This requires one to dive deep into the building’s context, client’s culture, business drivers and goals. A good design is an inclusive process that connects people with the physical environment in a meaningful and sustainable way.  

Jie has extensive design expertise in multi-family residential, hospitality, commercial, adaptive reuse, mixed-use and master planning projects, both in the United States and internationally. A true believer and practitioner of collaboration, he has led the design of many high-profile projects from concept to project completion.

Jie earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Tsinghua University in Beijing, China and Master of Architecture degree from Ohio State University as well as Master of Design Studies with focus on urbanization and Housing from Harvard University Graduate School of Design. He is a licensed architect in NY and NJ and a LEED Accredited Professional. Jie served as Co-Chair of Urban Plan at ULI New York from 2023 to 2025.  

Melissa believes that beauty is within the details. She comes with 15 years of experience in mixed-use, multi-family residential projects, involved from design development to construction administration. Her attention to detail and communication skills allows her to lead coordination between many different consultants. Melissa’s portfolio ranges from affordable rentals to high-end luxury condominiums.

Melissa earned her Bachelor of Architecture degree at New Jersey Institute of Technology. She is a licensed architect in NY and is a LEED Accredited Professional.

Brendan is a registered architect with over ten years of experience designing multi-family projects in NYC metro area through all phases of design and construction. His ability to combine management and communication skills with extensive knowledge of code compliance, architectural design principles and technical detailing ensures successful delivery of each and every projects of different scale and complexity.

Brendan believes his expertise in design and construction in NYC metro area will inform sound decision throughout project delivery process including contract documents, regulatory submission and approval, risk mitigation in design and project execution. Most importantly, Brendan continues to deepen and broaden his professional knowledge through research, collaboration and innovation on each project he works on.          

Brendan earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree at New Jersey Institute of Technology, he is a registered architect in NYS and a Certified Construction Specifier (CSS).

Teicha has 10 years of architecture experience, most of which have been spent in mixed-use, multi-family residential projects.  She believes in the importance of teamwork and collaboration to create a successful project.  Teicha’s organizational skills help facilitate the integration of ideas across all disciplines.

Teicha earned her Bachelor of Architecture degree at The Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture at City College of New York.