Pamela Sandler Architect Expands into Full-Service Interior Design, Announces Three Hires

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STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — Pamela Sandler Architect announced the expansion of its design team with the hiring of Barbara Olsen Pascale and Max Kapiloff as Architectural Designers, and Andrew Rota as Director of Interiors and Operations.

The firm is officially expanding its capabilities to offer full-service interior design, creating a single-source experience for its clients. The new team members bring a wealth of technical construction expertise, international design perspectives, and human-centered business strategy to the firm's growing portfolio of high-end residential and commercial projects in the Berkshires, Connecticut, and Hudson Valley, stated a press release.

"We are thrilled to welcome Max, Barbara, and Andrew to the firm," said founder Pamela Sandler. "Their unique backgrounds, ranging from deep technical construction management to global design philosophies, perfectly complement our commitment to creating spaces that are both beautifully envisioned and meticulously built. As we continue to grow, their diverse skills will be invaluable to our clients and our collaborative process."

Barbara Olsen Pascale, Architectural Designer

Barbara Olsen Pascale brings a formidable combination of academic rigor and hands-on craftsmanship to the team. She earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the New York Institute of Technology following a BS in Applied Economics from Cornell University. Barbara thrives in the "nitty-gritty" of architecture, specializing in complex sections, load paths, and the intricate structural puzzles of building assembly.

A veteran construction project manager with professional experience as a cabinet maker and finish carpenter, Barbara is a natural presence on the job site. Her ability to speak the language of contractors and tradespeople ensures seamless communication from the drafting table to the finished structure. Her design philosophy is rooted in a love for natural materials, modern forms, and contemporary lines. Outside of work, Barbara manages a 30-acre campground in Hillsdale with her partner, Jo, and their two German Shorthair Pointers, Freya and Niko.

Max Kapiloff, Architectural Designer

Max Kapiloff returns to the Berkshires following a successful seven-year career in New York City, where he collaborated on complex retail, hospitality, and luxury residential projects at top-tier firms including Design Republic and CetraRuddy. Max holds a Master of Architecture from Wentworth Institute of Technology, with international studies in Berlin and Kyoto. His thesis allowed him to immerse himself in Japanese design philosophy, a perspective further enriched by travels through Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.

Max's style is a thoughtful fusion, blending high-tech digital modeling with a physical, tactile approach to design. His connection to the Berkshires runs deep; his grandfather helped develop part of the Stockbridge Bowl, and his family maintains one of the area's original cabins. Max is currently restoring a 175-year-old farmhouse and barn and is an avid canoeist and hiker.

Andrew Rota, Director of Interiors and Operations

Andrew grew up alongside Pamela Sandler Architect. As Pam's son, he was on job sites and at the drafting table long before launching his professional career. He earned his degree in Business/Marketing from Northeastern University, and also holds a Design Certificate degree from Shillington in London. Andrew has spent over a decade leading business strategy, marketing, and design at major technology companies, including Intuit and DoorDash, with a focus on human-centered experiences and clear, thoughtful strategy.

Realizing his ideal combination of business, design, and meaningful impact was close to home, Andrew returned to the firm. Today, he manages business operations and leads the expanding interior design team, creating a seamless, integrated approach to architecture and interiors that supports both the team and the firm's beloved clients.

An avid traveler, Andrew brings a global perspective. He believes architecture and interiors can fundamentally shape how people feel and live every day, knowing that the firm's work is not simply about creating a building. Andrew is active in the Berkshires cultural scene, the performing arts, meditation, and engaging in initiatives that help to foster strong and inclusive LGBTQ+ communities.

 

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Lee Chamber Celebrates Local Community Members

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

Chamber Executive Director Alexandra Heddinger is applauded for her work.
LEE, Mass. — Longtime teacher, coach and community activist Thomas Cinella was the recipient of this year's Lifetime Achievement Award from the Lee Chamber of Commerce.
 
Cinella was one of four individuals and one organization who were celebrated at last week's gathering at the Greenock Country Club.
 
"We have the honor of recognizing some outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication, leadership, and generosity make Lee such a remarkable place to live, work, and raise a family," said President Erik Williams. "Each of our award recipients embodies the spirit of community and service that makes our town so special."
 
The awards were presented to Cinella, Ray Murray III, Scott and John LePrevost, and the Lee Lions Club.
 
Cinella, born in Lee in 1941, has joked he'd spent all but the four years he was in college in his hometown. He taught math at Lee High School as well as coaching basketball for 45 years. He has a record of six state championships and 15 Western Massachusetts championships during his 20 years of coaching the girls' varsity team.
 
Outside of school, Cinella served on the Lee Library Board of Trustees, chaired the Sandy Beach Committee, was the town lifeguard, and was involved with the town's playgrounds.
 
"Tom, your name is on the basketball court, and the banners and trophies, and it tells an impressive story. But your greatest legacy is found in the students you encouraged, the players you believed in, and the generations of young people who carry something of what you taught them with them every single day," Williams said. "Lee has been fortunate to have you as a teacher, coach, volunteer, and neighbor."
 
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