RALPH C. FEY, AIA / NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards)
Principal
Certifications / Affiliations
- Bucks County AIA (American Institute of Architects)
- Past President
- Board member
- Bucks County Chamber of Commerce
- Board member
- Heritage Conservancy
- New Hope Historical Society
- Ivyland Historic Foundation
- New Hope Arts
- New Hope Borough HARB
- Doylestown Borough HARB
“It’s my dream that 50 years from now, someone will design an adaptive reuse of one of our projects with whatever is the newer technology of the time. My vision is to leave graceful ruins across the landscape that will be cared for and cherished by future generations.”
Ralph Fey founded Ralph C. Fey Architects in 1996, bringing together an extensive background in architecture and interior design with a focus specializing on residential renovation, historic preservation, equestrian facilities, restaurants, event spaces, and more. Based in Bucks County, Ralph and the firm are dedicated to quality, hands-on design, and customer service. Ralph’s work embraces the nature of place, celebrates the region’s heritage, reflects the local vernacular and emphasizes the importance of context.
Very involved in the architectural integrity of the local community, Ralph serves on numerous Boards and is a two-time past president of the Bucks County AIA. As an award-winning architect, Ralph has a keen sense of “viewing the project from the outside in and the inside out”. Licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Florida he is the client advocate and design lead within the firm, working with his talented staff to shepherd each project from start to finish.
Ralph’s passion for architecture began at the early age of seven, when he could be found building projects in the basement of his family home. Taking this dedication to the next level, he went on to study both in the United States and abroad. Attending high school overseas, Ralph explored Asian architecture throughout Korea, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong. Earning a degree in architecture from Syracuse University, Ralph studied in Europe at the Polytechnic Institute of Central London and the London Architecture Association. Exploring world architecture throughout different continents holds a unique perspective and insight that Ralph has embodied throughout his career.
Recruited after college by the fourth largest architectural firm in the U.S., Ralph spent the first 15 years of his career at The Hillier Group, rising from intern mentored by J. Robert and Barbara Hillier to attaining a senior position as Director of Design for the 35 person interior design staff. Ralph led the studio and was personally responsible for a wide range of design challenges, including corporate, hospitality, residential, renovation and adaptive reuse projects, as well as managing the development of Hillier’s new headquarters building. In 1994, Ralph switched gears to become Director of Design and Facility Planning for QVC. In addition to maintaining a portfolio of properties, Ralph spearheaded the development of their new 60 million dollar corporate headquarters and television studio.
After 15 years in a large firm and several years in a private organization, Ralph gained a keen understanding for being both an architect and a client, providing the platform for starting his own firm. Coming home to his Bucks County roots, Ralph opened Ralph C. Fey Architects in Doylestown, PA, often saying his raison d’etre is: “…to leave graceful ruins across the landscape.”
KYLE WOOD, AIA + LEED AP
Associate Project Manager / Architect
Certifications / Affiliations
- Licensed architect – New Jersey
- GBCI- LEED Accredited Professional
- NJAIA Design Preservation Award recipient for Lafayette College project
- AIA New York Committee on the Environment – Steering Committee
- Archiba Travel Scholarship – German Architectural Study Program
“I find architecture is really about people and engagement with them through the medium of design. I’m most fascinated with the vernacular nature of the profession and strive to bring these regional qualities while connecting individuals to their surroundings. In the end, the joy brought to people through great design far exceeds the pleasure I get from creating any singular building.”
Kyle is a highly qualified registered architect (licensed in New Jersey) with a background in sustainable design. Earning dual degrees at Ball State University with a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Science, Kyle brings close to two decades of experience to RCFA. As a project architect and project manager, he leads the team on commercial and residential projects, from design development through precision detailing, construction drawings and specifications, as well as budgeting and scheduling. During his career, Kyle has worked throughout the country and across the spectrum of building types including educational, commercial, residential, historical, hospitality, and LEED certified construction. A sampling includes Princeton University, fortune 500 companies, and the Los Angeles Community College multi-billion dollar construction initiative.
Kyle excels at liaising between clients, contractors, and governmental agencies and he is knowledgeable on building codes with a record of success in helping facilities attain LEED certification. His professional presentation skills also serve clients well in meetings or before architecture review boards. Kyle is an asset to the firm, whether the project is a 45,000 square foot educational facility, a newly designed restaurant, high-end residential construction, or historic farmhouse restoration.
Outside of work, Kyle can be found painting in his home studio with his two daughters. He often exhibits and volunteers to support the Hopewell and Princeton area Art Councils in New Jersey.
GREG FREDERICK
Associate | Leed AP | Director of Building Technologies
Certifications / Affiliations
- American Institute of Architects – National, Pennsylvania, and Bucks County, PA affiliates
- GBCI – LEED Accredited Professional (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) / LEED certified for new construction
“I love to design buildings and spaces that inspire people through experience, materiality and engagement with the site. I particularly like the tactile side of architecture; drawing by hand and crafting models, which I still do to this day.”
Greg graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from Philadelphia University. Working construction between college semesters strengthened Greg’s knowledge in building technologies and adaptive reuse – his main area of focus at Ralph C. Fey Architects. As Architectural Associate at RCFA, Greg coordinated the team on The Ferry Market, The Logan Inn, and The Playhouse Inn properties. Additionally, he serves as client liaison – providing code review, feasibility studies, quality control, and conducting final technological review and oversight for construction documents. LEED certified, Greg’s added experience in green building methods helps reduce environmental impact across a spectrum of projects.
Greg has spent time volunteering with Habitat for Humanity’s neighborhood revitalization program and has served on the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce Film Festival Committee. Greg’s Labrador retriever Shelby is a favorite around the office, occasionally stopping in for visits, pets, and treats. Originally from Bucks County where he still calls home, Greg enjoys photography, dining out, fishing, and sports – especially the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies.
GEORGE WALBERT
Architectural Designer
“My passion for architecture began as a kid when I was constantly drawing everything I saw. Growing up in a more urban setting, buildings and cities became my primary subject matter. I received several awards along the way, and from there it seemed logical that I would someday be a part of the architectural profession.”
George graduated with a BA in architecture from Penn State in 2002 and began his career in architecture working on large commercial projects including schools, universities, hotels, parking garages, and healthcare facilities. His career evolved to high-end single-family residences in New Jersey, Connecticut, the Hamptons, and a penthouse on Park Avenue in New York City that included all phases of design. During this time, George developed additional skills in construction observation and administration, including the daily interaction between all trades to ensure the smooth flow of projects and budgeting. Utilizing his skills in planning, designing, detailing and construction documentation, at RCFA, George primarily works on high-end residential homes, with some commercial projects as well.
George enjoys traveling with his wife all over the United States and through Europe. He also enjoys collecting modern art and furniture, vintage Volkswagens, and Northumbrian coins of which he has the largest collection in private hands.
DEXTER CHEN
Project Architect
Certifications / Affiliations
- Registered Architect – New York state
“Architecture is the summation of all arts and sciences. It embodies a simultaneous solution of multi-faceted constraints, a process that makes problem-solving such a challenge. Since my first sofa cushion forts, I’ve always aspired to be an Architect. It’s been a privilege to have worked on several one-of-a-kind projects with exceptional architects. Every project has a story; my career has been built on the successes and lessons learned from each.”
Dexter received his Bachelor of Architecture from Pratt Institute in 1983. Dexter’s experience as an architect is expansive in his breadth of work; from New York’s “starchitect row” to Frederiksted, St. Croix. He has worked at several prominent firms in New York City and Connecticut in residential, institutional, and commercial architecture. Notable projects have included several ultra-luxury condominiums in NYC and private residences in Southampton, NY, Monterey, MA, and Fisher Island, FL. Notable projects include the design / build of a 125,000 square-foot multi-use building with art galleries, theater, lecture halls, and food court at SUNY Stony Brook in NY and a 65 acre private estate in Cove Neck, Long Island, NY. On a more regional level, Dexter worked on reclamation of the abandoned Bethlehem Steel plant as a Smithsonian affiliate for the National Museum of Industrial History in Bethlehem, PA.
At Ralph Fey Architects, Dexter focuses on bringing a depth of understanding of building technology to the firm. His role as Senior Project Coordinator includes being the technical lead and conducting construction administration on projects. Outside of work, Dexter is a self-proclaimed “car guy” that appreciates the art and engineering of car design. He loves dogs and has had several furry friends over the years. Dexter currently lives in Doylestown with his wife and three cats.
CONNOR TRASK
Architectural Designer
Certifications / Affiliations
- Member of AIA Bucks County
- Bucks County AIA Communications Director
“Ever since I held my first Lego™ I have always dreamed of building something. With architecture, I can turn that dream into reality and build something that impacts and betters the community at large. Architecture is the first step to bettering the world around us.”
Connor graduated from Marywood University in Scranton, PA with a BA in Architecture, along with NAAB accreditation, and is actively studying to become a licensed architect. Much of his focus in college was on learning new approaches to contemporary design and experimenting with new strategies for sustainable design. Connor spent a semester abroad in Florence, Italy where he studied Italian Architecture, Italian Design, and visited many historical sites, honing his drafting, modeling, and architect skills at ISI Florence.
With a passion for exploration and problem solving towards bettering the future of architecture and society, Connor’s interests lean toward commercial and community-based design.
At RCFA, Connor works on a mix of commercial and residential projects, including 3D visualization. A sampling includes a mid-rise tower in Margate, NJ, a Doylestown restaurant, and a residence in Florida. Connor’s skills in 3D work are utilized often in creating 3D modeling and renderings for projects and to help clients grasp a larger understanding of the visual structure in process. He also actively works on the construction documentation phase that follows.
Away from the office, Connor has an interest in video games and video game design, and participates in gaming sessions during much of his free time with his friends. Connor is fluent in Spanish, was a founding member of the rugby program at college, and was a collegiate student athlete. He is pursuing playing rugby, soccer, or kickball in his spare time. Connor comes from a large family and enjoys sharing their time together.
BEN PHILLIPS
Architectural Designer
Certifications / Affiliations
- Associate AIA – LEED Green Associate
“Architecture simultaneously requires a balanced creative and practical approach. My passion for architecture has always been there – I took the road less traveled to the profession, allowing the opportunity to bring my other interests to the drawing board. This includes music performance & composition, painting & drawing, excavation, post & beam construction, straw-bale & adobe construction & bamboo construction. Being an architect is an impactful way to be part of your community while also creating part of your community.”
Ben joined RCFA in the fall of 2020, coming home to Bucks County after living and working in New York City. Ben earned a Master of Architecture from Rhode Island School of Design and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Design & Music from Hampshire College. In addition to 10 years experience working on commercial, public, corporate and residential buildings for domestic and international clients, he has worked in excavation and heavy equipment operation alongside local architects, builders, and contractors, bringing a broad-based understanding to his role as an architectural designer. Ben’s work at RCFA involves a blend of commercial and residential projects, working through all phases of design and construction in both new buildings and historic restoration. His ability to create hand-drawn renderings is an added benefit when meeting with clients.
Ben’s trajectory to architecture began at an early age, when he saw a barn raising at five years old. His sketchbooks at six and seven years old were filled with architectural plans and elevations. In college, he built his own log cabin from materials found in the woods, and he even lived in a treehouse at one point. After college, Ben worked at a design / build company focusing on disaster relief, building system prototypes for FEMA after Hurricane Katrina. This interest in sustainable design led him to pursue a career in architecture. He worked in a design/build “think tank” that grew into the US Green Building Council, and his work over the next 10 years included a hotel resort in Tibet, residences on an island in Maine, a Philadelphia restaurant, a golf resort, dormitory towers, and multiple projects in China, Hong Kong and NYC.
Ben is passionate about music, having studied classical, jazz, and playing in numerous rock bands around the country. He is very active in sports and enjoys sailing, tennis, skiing, and biking. A previous Trustee of the Delaware & Raritan Mill Society in Stockton, NJ, Ben led the creation of a bike rental business on the longest state park in NJ. Ben lives in the heart of Bucks County with his wife (also an architect) and their dog.
ELISABETTA COPPOLA
Architectural Designer
Certifications / Affiliations
- Ordine Degli Architetti (Board of Architecture in Italy – Planners, Landscape Architects – the Conservatories of Naples and the Province.)
“My passion for architecture came naturally. I can’t imagine doing anything else; it is fascinating to think that my drawing will be someone’s dream come true.”
Elisabetta joins Ralph Fey Architects with both national and international experience. She received her Master’s of Architecture degree at Federico II University in Naples Italy in 2006. Originally from Italy, Elisabetta came to the United States in 2015. Elisabetta had her own multidisciplinary architecture studio in Italy for 10 years where she built her overall architecture experience in commercial, public, and residential buildings and interior design. Elisabetta gained additional skills with construction documents, 3D models, and photorealistic visualization rendering while working at two different architectural firms in the USA. Her extensive knowledge in these areas is an asset to the team at Ralph Fey Architects, and to clients, for a realistic idea of how their project will look.
Away from the office, Elisabetta enjoys spending time with her daughter and with friends, reading, doing arts & crafts, taking walks, cooking, and gardening.
MATTHEW YOUNG
Architectural Designer
Certifications / Affiliations
- Member of American Institute of Architects (AIA) – Bucks County, PA Chapter
“Architecture was fascinating to me as a child because of how history and the future meet; a kind of living history that I always wanted to have a hand in shaping. I believe architects have a responsibility to curate the living history surrounding us. We also have a great opportunity to create more history for our children to observe. I want to design architecture that is a part of our history but also pushes beyond the boundaries of today.”
Matthew joined Ralph Fey Architects as a recent graduate from Marywood University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. At university, Matthew spent a semester studying abroad in Italy, participated in several exclusive courses including design build, graduated Cum Laude, and was president of his fraternity Phi Mu Delta. Matthew’s role at RCFA is centered around 3D modeling and rendering projects. He has created several models for the firm, enjoys the rendering process, and has a passion for his work.
Outside the office, Matthew spends time fishing, hiking, traveling, and exploring new places. He loves animals, has two cats, and hopes to add a dog to the family soon.
DAVID CURLE
Project Architect
Certifications / Affiliations
- Licensed Architect – New York State
“I love what I do. I strive for excellence in design with every project no matter the size.”
David is a licensed architect with over 30 years of experience in all phases of the architectural design process. His work has spanned commercial, residential, mixed use, hospitality, retail, healthcare, municipal, educational, scientific, and industrial projects.
David earned two degrees from Clemson University including a Bachelor of Architecture and Bachelor of Science in Design, and also studied overseas in Italy. As a senior leader in his career, David brings expertise and deep knowledge to his role at Ralph Fey Architects. Prior to joining RCFA, David worked on a wide variety of projects, including a residence in conjunction with architect J. Robert Hillier. Additional career highlights have included specification writer and construction administrator on a 14-story high rise project in center city Philadelphia, project manager for the design and construction documentation for PennDOT’s welcome center on I-95, and senior project architect for the Revel Casino and Hotel to name a few. He also designed an urban prototype for a regional bank and was in a key leadership role in the development and execution of bank branches in Ohio, Florida, and Tennessee. David’s role at RCFA is architect and project finisher, specializing in the timely completion of comprehensive construction documents.
David is fluent in Italian, and outside of work, he enjoys cooking and spending time in the garden.
MAIKEN SCHOENLEBER PALAZZO
Senior Interior Designer
Certifications / Affiliations
- NCIDQ certified
“Growing up in a creative family, the arts have always been central to my life. I truly enjoy exploring space in new ways by focusing on the nuances of line and form, pattern and texture, color and lighting, all to develop comfortable and inviting spaces. In particular, I value the process of getting to know my clients and working with them to create spaces that enrich their lives or the lives of the community they serve.”
Maiken received a Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and graduated Suma Cum Laude. Prior to joining RCFA, she served as senior designer at two Baltimore firms specializing in luxury living, multi-family housing, and corporate facilities.
A Bucks County native, Maiken grew up in Doylestown and Buckingham, PA, and it has been her dream to work in her hometown community. Maiken’s primary focus at RCFA is project management and serving as the design lead on interior architecture projects. She has received multiple awards for her design work, including Argentum – Senior Living by Design Awards, and an Award of Honor from the IIDA Mid-Atlantic Chapter. Outside of work, Maiken enjoys yoga, gardening, and spending time with her husband and young daughter.
INESSA HOVHANNISYAN
Interior Architectural Designer
“My passion for architecture stems from a desire to create beauty in my surroundings. I have always been creative and have always wanted to create, from sewing doll clothes and making jewelry at an early age to drawing and painting as an adult. My skills have grown and architecture and interior design have become a permanent part of who I am. My passion will never stop; it will only evolve to something bigger and greater. That is what feeds my perpetual hunger for architecture and design.”
Inessa graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. With a distinct passion for her work, Inessa brings her artistic skills and talent for creating sophisticated and functional interior spaces to the team at Ralph C. Fey Architects. Previously a west-coaster, Inessa spent several years working as an interior designer at the highly regarded Harrison Design firm in Los Angeles. In her current role as interior architectural designer at RCFA, Inessa meets with clients, conducts site visits, and prepares interior and permit drawings. With her additional skill set, she also provides graphic design when needed. Inessa’s presentation and visualization skills plus her ability to communicate ideas well are an asset to the company and the clients she works with.
Originally from Armenia, Inessa relocated from Hollywood, California to the east coast, and currently lives in Montgomery County, PA. Her interests outside the office include painting, hiking, baking, and playing with her toy poodle named Pushok.
BECCA DOLGAS
Interior Architectural Designer
Certifications / Affiliations
- AIA, IIDA
“I grew up in a very creative and tactile environment, which grew into an interest in how we craft experiences for people. My passion for architecture specifically roots itself in how it must navigate seemingly conflicting ideas, interior and exterior, light and shadow, new and old. The way we thoughtfully negotiate these relationships fascinates me and perpetuates my desire to learn and grow as a designer.”
Becca received her Bachelor in Architecture in 2021 from Marywood University where she was valedictorian, and went on to The Rhode Island School of Design, earning a Master of Arts in Adaptive Reuse in Interior Architecture. She also studied overseas at the Danish Institute for Study Abroad and was an adjunct professor at Marywood University. Becca was in the National Scholastic Honor Society as well as the Architectural Honor Society where she served as President from 2020 to 2021. Prior to joining Ralph Fey Architects, Becca gained valuable experience at an interior design studio in western Massachusetts, working with the lead designer and clients, creating digital renderings, and being involved in construction-based projects through managing sub-contractors. She has brought her skills to the team at RCFA where she provides interior architectural design services, 3D modeling and visualization, finishes and furniture specification work, and spatial planning.
Outside the office, Becca’s interests include sketching, digital art, reading, martial arts, and soccer. She was a previous US Soccer Federation referee as well as a martial arts instructor, earning the rank of black belt. Originally from Western Massachusetts, Becca now lives in Bucks County, PA.
ROSE PASCHOALETTO
Administrative Staff
Rose is a seasoned administrative professional and is the lead administrator at Ralph C. Fey Architects. Responsible for managing office operations, Rose handles a myriad of duties, from client relations and staff liaison to procedures and scheduling. Rose graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Oswaldo Cruz University in Brazil and also attended Michigan State University.
Prior to joining RCFA, Rose worked in accounting firms and was an administrative secretary in the Bucks County school district. She is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish, and has taught ESL in Brazil and the US. Rose lives in Bucks County with her husband. Away from the office, Rose enjoys watching movies, going to the beach, but most of all spending time with the people she loves – her family and friends.
KATHY VOGT
Administrative Staff
Kathy brings vast experience to her role of Administrator at Ralph Fey Architects, where she is responsible for processing payroll and accounts payable, performing HR duties, and overseeing general office administration and accounting tasks. With a focus in the field of administrative accounting for over two decades, Kathy has worked across industries, including architectural, industrial, utility, and medical. From her background in payroll and accounting, to human relations and client interfacing, Kathy’s wide cross-section of knowledge and skills are an asset to RCFA.
Kathy has a variety of interests outside work; she enjoys watching her two daughters play softball for local teams, fair weather days cruising in her antique Chevy, and traveling with her family (including when she rode a mule down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon). A Bucks County resident, Kathy has two dogs named Moose and Ramen that she adopted from a local rescue organization.
MARK ZAWACKI, AIA
Certifications / Affiliations
- Licensed Architect – New Jersey
American Institute of Architects
“Form follows function.”
Mark graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia in 1987 where he was a multiple winner of the Drexel University Annual Award for Excellence in Design. Receiving his New Jersey architectural license in 1995, Mark has a diverse background as an architect, encompassing both residential and commercial, including a 39-unit condominium in Atlantic City, NJ, corporate headquarters for Nabisco, the museum for the Lenape Indians on the Delaware River in Philadelphia, an 80,000 square-foot conference center in Kurdistan, Iraq, and a 40,000 square-foot office building in North Jersey, plus he was a finalist in the design competition for Codex Headquarters as a team member with the Hillier Group in Princeton, NJ.
Ralph and Mark have a 40-year history of collaborating on coastal residences. Mark is the architect and manager of the newly established RCFA COASTAL STUDIO. He has designed luxury residences up to 6800 square-feet in Key West, Shark Key, and Bonita Springs in Florida. New Jersey coastal projects include work in Margate, Seaside Park, and Longport. Outside of work, Mark enjoys cooking and spending time cycling, working out at the gym, and of course going to the beach.