SmithGroup promotes Roxanne Malek to Learning Studio Leader in San Francisco

SmithGroup has named Roxanne Malek, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, to lead the firm’s Learning Studio at its San Francisco office.

In her new role as studio leader, Malek will head the office’s work for the higher education sector, expanding the studio’s focus and diversifying its portfolio. The broader body of work will complement that of the combined Research, Learning, and Courts Studio led by Suzanne Napier.

“Our Learning Practice will benefit from Roxanne Malek’s expertise in a range of project types – from complex laboratory projects to student housing. She brings great leadership, collaboration and creativity to our discussions,” said Chris Purdy, Learning Practice leader, SmithGroup.

In Malek’s 19 years with SmithGroup, she has demonstrated her project management and design skills while remaining at the forefront of some of the office’s most notable projects. Her experience ranges from large scale academic projects to complex science and technology facilities. Among her most significant projects are the University of California, Merced’s Science & Engineering Building II, the first LEED Platinum project earned by the San Francisco office; Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s Molecular Foundry, an AIA East Bay award winner; and University of California, San Francisco Smith Cardiovascular Research Building, a recipient of an IIDA Northern California Honor Award.

With experience that spans across numerous academic campuses throughout California, her clients include Stanford University, University of California San Francisco, University of California Davis, University of California Merced, and University of California Berkeley.

Malek’s passion for lifelong learning enhances her commitment to achieving design excellence in academic spaces. “As an architect, it is incredibly rewarding to create environments that support the dynamic learning process. Education is ever-changing, and like the students, we are continually evolving with it,” says Malek.  

Malek, a firm principal, is a graduate of Cornell University where she received a Bachelor of Architecture. She holds architectural registration in California and is an active member of the American Institute of Architects. She has also volunteered her time to promote arts and education through the LEAP organization. Malek is a native of San Francisco where she attended Convent of the Sacred Heart High School.

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