Three new Associate Principals and new Associate join “Class of ’22” to help lead the integrated design firm into the future
IRVINE, CALIF. – August 11, 2022 – Integrated design firm LPA Design Studios is expanding its team of leaders with the addition of three new Associate Principals, who will help guide the independent firm’s continued growth and expansion into new markets.
The new leaders represent different areas of LPA’s integrated practice, reflecting the diverse disciplines and skill sets developing in the firm.
The three new Associate Principals are Eric Jones, Managing Director, Commercial and Life Sciences; Samuel Lim, Managing Director, K-12; and Ozzie Tapia, Design Director, Education. Structural engineer Harshda Prasad, Senior Project Manager, was elevated to Associate.
“The new principals represent a deep pool of talent,” says LPA CEO Wendy Rogers. “Each has excelled in their specialty and created a lasting impact on the firm and their communities.”
The promotions follow the recent announcement of the expanded ownership of four additional Principals, as the firm continues to develop the generation of talent that will lead the 57-year-old firm into the future. Each Principal takes an ownership stake in the firm and works to support its education, diversity and community outreach, as well as LPA’s industry-leading work to reduce the energy use of our projects.
At the multidiscipline firm, including architects, engineers, designers and landscape architects, Principals work across sectors to build the firm’s unique collaborative design process. LPA takes a holistic view of sustainability — including performance, experience, wellness and community — and is an advocate and leader in the AIA’s 2030 Commitment, which seeks to eliminate fossil fuel use in buildings.
Each of the new leaders brings unique skills and experience to their roles.
Associate Principals
Eric Jones AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Managing Director
Eric is a proven leader in the San Diego studio. He has managed large-scale, complex life science, civic, corporate and education projects. He has earned the confidence of clients, staff and community stakeholders, demonstrating his ability to bring together diverse teams and produce outstanding buildings. Eric is helping to grow our lab planning discipline within the firm, building a team and leading discussions on the creation of new life science ecosystems.
Samuel Lim Architect, LEED AP BD+C
Managing Director
Sam leads many of the firm’s most complex and challenging K-12 projects. He embraces our business practice and elevates the performance of our work and design excellence. Sam confronts the truth in a calm and methodical way and represents the best interests of LPA, our clients and our partners with integrity.
In addition to his involvement within LPA’s business group, Sam’s leadership in many firm initiatives is making LPA better, including the Integrated Design Residency and Project Management coaching initiatives. Sam is a graduate of the CASH School Facilities Leadership Academy and is a mentor and educator within the firm.
Ozzie Tapia AIA, LEED AP
Design Director
Ozzie is a passionate advocate for our informed and integrated design process. On every project, he encourages team participation and builds on ideas to make informed sustainable design solutions. His imprint can be found on many education projects, including California State University San Bernardino’s Center for Global Innovation and the Tarbut v’Torah Community Day School.
Ozzie is committed to mentoring and supporting young professionals and serves in leadership roles with AIA-OC, and he is a cofounder of LPA for Change. In 2020, Ozzie received the American Institute of Architects’ Young Architects honor, reflecting his impact on the profession and the next generation of architects.
“The new principals represent a deep pool of talent,” says LPA CEO Wendy Rogers. “Each has excelled in their specialty and created a lasting impact on the firm and their communities.”
Harshda Prasad SE, LEED AP
Senior Structural Project Manager
Harshda is a strong and capable voice representing LPA’s structural engineering team. Within the firm, she is a technical engineering mentor, raising everyone’s expertise. Her recent work includes leading the structural design of Mission College Performing Arts Center and the Hamilton High School campus-wide modernization and seismic retrofit. Harshda also plays a key role in LPA’s integrated lab planning discipline, supporting the design of high-performing laboratories in both educational and R&D facilities.
Harshda is a proud model for women in engineering and a leader in the community. She is an active leader in the Structural Engineering Association of San Diego, currently serving as the organization’s Vice President, and is a founding member and chairperson for the group’s Women in Structural Engineering (WISE) Committee. Harshda was also recently named a Woman of Influence in Engineering by the San Diego Business Journal.
