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.

 

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Great Barrington Unveils 9/11 Memorial Featuring World Trade Center Steel

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — A piece of history will now stand in front of the Great Barrington Fire Department, serving as a lasting reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and heroism of those who rushed in, stepped forward, and answered the call on Sept. 11, 2001.
 
Hundreds of community members gathered outside the Fire Department for the unveiling of a 9/11 memorial featuring a steel I-beam salvaged from the wreckage of the World Trade Center.
 
The monument marks the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks, and its effect reached far and wide beyond New York, said Deputy Fire Chief James Mead.
 
"There are moments in our lives that become markers of time. Moments when we remember not only what happened, but where we were, who was beside us, and how the world somehow felt different afterwards," Town Manager Liz Hartsgrove said. 
 
"For those of us who experienced September 11, 2001 — it is one of those moments for us to share."
 
The acquisition of the beam was a multi-year effort initiated by the late Andy Moro, former commander of American Legion Post 298 in Housatonic, and was carried on by the Legion's second vice commander, John Morris. 
 
Morris said he was able to obtain the warped steel I-beam through connections he made during his time as a New York City firefighter.
 
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