Ellen MitchellAIA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, SEED

Ellen is a recognized leader in the industry’s move to create more energy efficient, equitable and resilient built environment. Ellen guides LPA’s Sustainability and Applied Research team focused on developing actionable research to support the firm’s informed design process. She also leads initiatives across the firm to advance sustainability and high-performance design, building a culture of education, accountability and innovation.

A trained and licensed architect, Ellen has spent the overwhelming majority of her career focused on integrating sustainability and high-performance design, achieving results across a diverse range of project types, budgets and cultures. She has overseen more than $4 billion worth of construction through LEED and other third-party certifications. On every project, she advocates for a holistic approach to sustainability, focused on performance, experience, wellness and community. She stresses the value proposition of high-performance design and the impact on market share, positive industry and community visibility, and occupant satisfaction and well-being.

Throughout her career, Ellen has championed an expanded awareness of the industry’s social impact and the connection to environmental issues. A tireless advocate for public interest design, she previously founded and directed an initiative dedicated to providing reduced fee or gratis design work to communities and non-profits, working on projects ranging from a net zero energy maternity ward in Uganda to an urban food studio in Washington D.C.

Ellen is a frequent speaker and panelist at industry events discussing design culture, carbon reduction and public interest design. She volunteers with several groups focused on promoting best practices, including the AIA National Framework for Design Excellence Task Group, AIA National COTE Sub-Committee on Climate Action & Climate Justice and Large Firm Round Table Sustainability Group Executive Committee.