About Me.
Nicholas Faehnle is an architect and Director of Design with more than two decades of experience shaping thoughtful, community centered environments. Through architecture, academic pursuit, community engagement, travel, and an interdisciplinary approach to design, he immerses himself in a larger continuum of experience that enriches and challenges his critical thinking.
At the core of Nicholas’s work is a belief that empathy is the basis of innovation, a principle that transforms design into an act of generosity. This perspective informs every stage of his process, from conceptual thinking to realized form, and enables him to approach a wide range of project types with authenticity, sensitivity, and purpose.
As Design Director, Nicholas guides projects from inception to completion, leading design strategy, business development, and the alignment of each project with the values and aspirations of clients and communities alike. His work balances aesthetic beauty with civic and cultural significance, creating spaces that foster connection, inspire pride, and enrich the human experience.
work experience.
2024 - current
DS Architecture
Design Director, RA
The Director of Design is a licensed architect who provides firmwide design leadership and accountability, aligning AIA standards of practice with DS Architecture’s commitment to design excellence, innovation, and consistency. This role establishes and oversees design and brand standards, guides projects from concept through design development, oversees key design presentations, and provides clear design direction and support to ensure high quality and cohesive outcomes across all project types. The Director of Design leads and mentors the studio, fosters thought leadership and design research, integrates emerging trends and technologies, and ensures that architectural vision is seamlessly aligned with technical rigor, building materials, construction methods, and the firm’s long term strategic goals.
2011-2024
Vocon
Design Director, RA
The Design Director at Vocon is a senior creative leader responsible for firmwide design leadership who bridges creative vision with practical execution to ensure all work aligns with Vocon’s brand standards, client goals, and business objectives. This role defines and champions the firm’s design direction, leads and mentors interdisciplinary design teams, and oversees projects from concept through execution while strengthening client relationships and contributing to business development and firm reputation. The Design Director also orchestrates high-impact design presentations and fosters a collaborative culture that upholds professional excellence and innovative design across the practice.
2007 - 2009
Kent State University CAED
​
Instructor
interior design - studio 1
Interior Design Studio I introduces students to the fundamentals of interior space, including spatial organization, color, and human experience, while developing conceptual thinking through drawing, modeling, and digital representation. The studio emphasizes iterative design and critique to build a strong foundation for future interior design work.
​
architecture - studio 2
Architecture Studio II advances students’ architectural thinking by integrating program, form, context, and material into cohesive design solutions. The studio emphasizes conceptual development, spatial organization, and representation, preparing students for more complex design challenges.
2004 - 2008, 2010
KA inc.
Designer/Architectural Intern
An Architectural Intern supports project teams across design, documentation, and research tasks under the mentorship of licensed architects. Responsibilities include assisting with design development, preparing CAD/BIM drawings and models, producing presentation graphics, conducting site and code research, and helping organize project deliverables and documentation. This position offers hands‑on experience with architectural workflows, collaboration with multi‑disciplinary teams, and exposure to real‑world projects while gaining practical skills toward professional practice and licensure
2003 - 2004
Museum Lighting & Design
Designer
The design role at Museum Lighting & Design support design leadership in exhibition and museum lighting design.
2002 - 2003
She She NY
Designer
The fashion design role at She She is an Avant-garde fashion house, is to help design and prepare collections and oversee concept narrative for runway shows.
