Lowney Architecture’s Hawaii office has experienced considerable growth throughout 2022, recently welcoming Purnima McCutcheon as a senior project manager focused on projects and solutions that boost the region’s affordable housing inventory. Her expertise in designing innovative, inclusive communities that are environmentally responsible and contextually fit with their surroundings brings added breadth and depth to the office’s expanding bench of talent.

“Lowney’s reputation in Honolulu has grown, and we’ve become an attractive place for creative industry professionals who want to be involved in meaningful, engaging work in a collaborative environment that supports their growth and celebrates their accomplishments,” said Lowney’s Director of Architecture Grant Chang, who leads the Hawaii office. “Our firm, our clients and the region at large will all benefit from the passion and expertise held by this collective group. We’re glad to have such strong individuals on our team.”

Purnima comes on board following the additions of Janice Y.K. Li, Noe Pegarido, Arnel Danao, Elaine Wong and Biwen Li in the Hawaii office earlier this year.

Studio Director Janice Y.K. Li oversees Lowney’s Hawaii portfolio, ensuring culture, sustainability, and economic value are realized in all projects. She brings more than two decades of experience working on projects in Hawaii, California, Hong Kong and Thailand, focusing on guest experience in high-end hospitality projects.

Senior Project Designer Noe Pegarido leverages deep expertise on international luxury hospitality projects and multi-family development. He specializes in bridging nature and space to create award-winning designs that create experiences and influence moods and emotions.

Senior Project Manager Arnel Danao touts more than three decades of extensive experience in a variety of project types including affordable housing, market-rate housing, commercial, institution, and medical work throughout Hawaii. He is well-versed in all aspects of project management, from schematic design through construction administration, and skillfully guides projects of all sizes from inception to completion.

Project Architect Elaine Wong brings creative solutions to technical aspects of projects and enjoys working on socially and environmentally responsible architecture that improves the human experience. She has managed several international projects and excels at collaborating across teams to meet project goals and timelines.

Job Captain Biwen Li focuses on multifamily and commercial projects. With more than eight years of architectural and design experience, she has worked on a variety of project types including transit-oriented developments, mixed-use, luxury hotels, and retail projects.