Marks-Woods loves partnering with local architects, especially those who value the Alexandria community as much as we do. This week, our intern, Kaya DeMarco, wants to introduce you to a team with whom we have been partnering for years – Convene Architecture. Keep reading to get to know and love them as we do!

Kaya: Convene Architecture is a DMV-local firm dedicated to designing spaces where people, families, and communities look forward to gathering. Co-Owners and Principal Architects, Laura Campbell and Ruben Santos, with their respective families, have lived and worked in the Alexandria community for more than 20 years. When asked about their intentions for starting Convene Architecture in 2020, they noted that, with their shared love for creating inspiring spaces, they intend to turn ordinary houses into homes. Their entire team finds joy in getting to know their clients, listening, and creating spaces that allow their clients to find refuge, gather with loved ones, and make their lives easier through clever, functional, and beautiful designs.

Photo credit: Angela Newton Roy Photography

Calling Alexandria Home

It was easy to choose Alexandria, and the greater DMV, as the home for their business, because of the people, community, and unique environment. From working with historical homes to new builds, Alexandria offers special experiences for designing homes. One of Convene Architecture’s main goals is to improve homes, while also respecting the community and original structures.

Getting Started with Convene Architecture

Are you wondering when you should consider reaching out to an architecture firm, such as Convene Architecture? Laura and Ruben shared their advice!

1. It’s never too early: Whether you already have dreams for your space, or you need ideas, Convene Architecture is excited to chat with you! They start with a phone interview in which they ask many questions to understand your wants and needs. Then, they share more about their firm and process, so you have all the information upfront to make informed decisions.

2. Collaboration is critical:  If you already have a contractor or builder in mind (such as Marks-Woods) for your project, that’s great! If not, that’s great too! They meet their potential clients at various stages of their journey. Your project will be set up for success if you engage Convene Architecture early in the process, so that they can help you assess “the art of the possible” with your project, and then work hand-in-hand with all project partners. 

Convene Architecture had the privilege of working with Habitat for Humanity DC-NOVA to design three new homes in the community and support their mission of helping families achieve the dream of affordable homeownership. These homes are now being built, and in September 2022 the Convene Architecture team was grateful to volunteer on the construction site. It was meaningful for their entire team to see the love that’s been poured into these homes by so many.

They’re Ready to Collaborate!

At the start of every project, they provide a checklist and questionnaire to clients and ask them to share any images of spaces they love as well as inspiring details. They will use those to inform their designs. 

Project done in partnership with Marks-Woods and Braemar Cabinetry. Photo credit: Jenn Verrier

For Laura and Ruben, Convene Architecture is more than just a business, it’s a cultivation of community and relationships. The team understands that home renovations can feel overwhelming. Convene Architecture is with their clients and partners every step of the way, and prides themselves on transparency and open communication with clients. They tailor the experience to each client's needs. Laura and Ruben are always looking forward to working with new clients!

To learn more and to get in touch with Laura and Ruben, visit their website.

Photo credit: Angela Newton Roy Photography