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About Us

Who is Lacuna Design?

Lacuna Design, is an architectural practice focusing on the fusion of modern design and client collaboration. Architecture is not only a functional need but an experience through which our senses are enriched by space, light, materiality and craftsmanship. The layering of textures, color, space, and light  is our approach to a distinct modern architectural experience. In the end, we believe architecture is an art and a service. We strive to connect with clients in a unique way: with open minds, thoroughness, intent on efficiency and budget awareness. The office puts our expertise to work for the clients and acts as a client advocate willing to translate dreams into reality.

People

Melissa Molnar Lawson

Founder; Principal + Architect

For over two decades Melissa has been connecting with clients, shaping their homes and environments throughout the country. Melissa received her undergraduate degree from Roger Williams University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Architecture with honors. Prior to founding Lacuna Design in 2005, Melissa worked for notable firms in New York, Boston and Providence developing the architectural and business mindset which would form the foundation of what the client driven office is today. Melissa is a Licensed Architect in the states of Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Florida.

Kristopher Lawson

Principal + Architect

In the past twenty years Kris has been working to remove the historic divide in the industry by developing a thorough understanding of methods of construction as well as educating to the importance of design in the built environment. Prior to joining his wife in the practice in 2013 Kris worked in the Construction industry, bridging the divide between architects, contractors and material suppliers in the field throughout southern New England. His resume includes vast list of project typologies and notable architectural firms in Philadelphia, New York and Boston. Kris is currently an adjunct faculty member at Roger Williams University School of Architecture and is a Licensed Architect and NCARB Certified Professional.

Ryan T. Danforth

Project Manager

Ryan received his undergraduate degree from Roger Williams University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Architecture. Before joining Lacuna Design, Ryan previously worked for several Rhode Island architectural firms as well as a steady freelance career in both Residential and Commercial architecture.

Samantha Moscardelli

Architectural Designer

Samantha has been a part of Lacuna Design since she was studying for her Graduate degree in Architecture at Roger Williams University. After receiving her degree she pursued her architecture career with multiple firms in New York City for a few years before returning back to Rhode Island to become a member of the adjunct faculty at Roger Williams as well as reclaiming her desk in our office and a spot on the floor for her 100lb dog 'brick'. Samantha pivots between both residential and commercial projects within the office with her amazing ability to embrace projects of all scale and function.

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Happy holidays from Lacuna Design Architects! #la Happy holidays from Lacuna Design Architects! #lacunadesignarchitects #happyholidays #MerryChristmasEveryone #yearinreview #hireanarchitect
A little guesthouse above the garage. Client requ A little guesthouse above the garage. Client requested a place for guests or grandkids...a place to get out of the sun, exercise and make some juice...an extension of the primary residence. 10-4! We threw in a quad vaulted ceiling and barn door wall for good measure. #poolhousedesign #Guesthouse #GuesthouseLife #residentialarchitecture #residentialarchitects #rhodeislandarchitect #lacunadesignarchitects #architecture #hireanarchitect
A lot of the spaces we post are small and cozy...o A lot of the spaces we post are small and cozy...others are...well...large...like a G6 or maybe a helicopter, the vehicles feel cozy though not to worry. Many of our projects we post deal with views, and light and material palettes...this one deals floor planes, hydraulics, potential explosions and safety from all angles. They don't look like much...but for those that have read any code books these are a tester! 5 Hangars, 3 different sizes, 5 different wall types, 3 different door sizes...one architect, one builder! #privatejets #helicopters #privateplane #airport #RhodeIsland #quonsetairport #lacunadesignarchitects #riarchitecture #rhodeislandarchitecture #lionsandtigersandbears #hireanarchitect
Alot to unpack on this one...Excited to have gotte Alot to unpack on this one...Excited to have gotten it up on the website and ready to share. This one has it all, arches, panels, stairs and entertainment space around every corner. Excited to continue the relationship with the development team and builders. Architect: @lacunadesign Builder: Corda Builders Windows: @pellasouthernnewengland @pellawindows #lacunadesign #architecture #residentialarchitecture #residentialconstruction #boston #bostonarchitecture #bostonsuburbs #wellesley #wellesleymassachusetts #design #pellawindows #architecturaldesign #hireanarchitect
A few weeks have past by but...We've Moved! Right A few weeks have past by but...We've Moved! Right in the heart of the Innovation District ( jewelry district for those that know) of Providence. #rhodeislandarchitects #lacunadesign #rhodeislandarchitecture #RhodeIsland #hireanarchitect #architects #architecture #rhodeislandarchitecturefirm #lacunadesignarchitects #residentialarchitects #residentialarchitecure #commericalarchitecture #communityarchitecture #healthandwellnessarchitecture #architecturalvisualization #providence #providenceri #Businessrelocation
Just quick peek into the process of how we start d Just quick peek into the process of how we start designing a new home. ...still sketching by hand ...always thinking about proportions ...constantly evaluating light and shadow ...sections as early as possible for quality space. #lacunadesignarchitects #rhodeislandarchitecture #RhodeIsland #lacunadesign #residentialarchitecure #residentialdesign #hireanarchitect #rhodeislandarchitecturefirm #rhodeislandarchitects #architects #architecture #residentialarchitects #sketch #architectssketchbook #designprocess #architectsdrawings #drawings #3dmodeling #architecturalvisualization #happyplace Should we have more posts like this? let us know in the comments.
Clean, Comfortable take on a colonial farmhouse in Clean, Comfortable take on a colonial farmhouse in Portsmouth Rhode Island...sometimes it's all you might need. #RhodeIsland #rhodeislandarchitecture #athelticfacility #lacunadesignarchitects #hireanarchitect #residentialarchitecure #portsmouthri #residentialdesign #lacunadesign
Yesterday we were honored to be apart of the ribbo Yesterday we were honored to be apart of the ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony for the CLCF ( Cranston League for Cranston's Future) building enhancement project. The project was funded and built primarily through generous donations ( monetary, materials and labor) of community members and businesses support the program and its dedication to youth athletics. The facility located on Pontiac Avenue in Cranston Rhode Island required significant Flood Proofing design, Site and building enhancements, accessibility design and renewed functionality. All of this while creating a welcoming environment for young athletes and volunteers to use and enjoy for years to come while commemorating the rich history of the program. Congratulations to all involved! #CLCF #RhodeIsland #cranstonri #lacunadesign #lacunadesignarchitects #rhodeislandarchitecture #clcfsports #athelticfacility #athleticfacilities #floodprevention #accessibility #community #cranstonforlife
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  • Melissa & Kris from Lacuna are a great team to work with. They are highly responsive, have great attention to detail, and are true professionals. Every opportunity I can work with them I know we will have great results. I highly recommend Lacuna Design.

    – Jacqueline Pagel, Pella Windows and Coastal Design

Designing for Modern Life

Contact Us

171 Chestnut Street 2nd Floor, Providence Rhode Island 02903
Tel: +1 (401) 723 7200

© 2024 Lacuna Design, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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