Lori Apfel Cardeli, AIA, NCARB

Lori Apfel Cardeli is an NCARB certified, licensed Architect registered to practice in Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and New York. Ms. Cardeli is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and also certified by the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal-OES) as a Safety Assessment Program (SAP) Evaluator, showcasing her commitment to community resilience.

For over a decade, Ms. Cardeli has been specializing in the design, project management, and construction of single-family custom homes, renovations, and additions. Her diverse portfolio also includes high-rise residential projects and sustainable learning environments, reflecting her versatility and passion for thoughtful, impactful design.

Ms. Cardeli’s dedication to the profession extends beyond her projects. Recently appointed as the AIA SFx Maryland State Representative for 2025-2026 by the AIA Maryland Board of Directors, she has an extensive history of volunteer leadership. She has presented twice at the AIA National Convention, served on the AIA National Convention Education Proposal Review Committee, participated in the YAF Summit20, and contributed as a speaker at DesignDC and other events hosted by AIAPV, CRAN, and AIANYC. Additionally, she served as a juror for the prestigious 2024 AIA Interior Architecture Award. Lori’s commitment to fostering the next generation of architects is evident in her involvement with the AIA K-12 Pathway Initiatives, where she advocates for integrating architecture and design awareness into primary and secondary education.

Ms. Cardeli also served three terms as an inaugural board member of the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation (GSAPP) Alumni Association, where she co-chaired the Alumni/Students + Careers Committee. Her contributions include speaking engagements at Columbia on topics such as “How to Get a Job in a Tough Economy” and “How to Market Yourself in the Early Stages of Your Career.”

A dedicated advocate for women in architecture, Ms. Cardeli participated as a panelist in NCARB’s live webinar, Women in Architecture, addressing the challenges faced by female practitioners. As a mentor, she frequently guides students and young professionals on navigating architecture school, building portfolios, securing internships, and launching careers.

Ms. Cardeli earned her Master of Architecture from Columbia University, GSAPP, and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis.

Ms. Cardeli currently resides in Bethesda, Maryland, with her husband, two children, and their adorable new puppy.