Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC is a collective group of commercial architects, interior designers and engineers specializing in educational, municipal, and commercial facilities. Our design philosophy is one that shapes all our projects with one common goal – that all our designs are thoughtful and creative while addressing the needs of the client within the budgetary parameters. Since our inception, we have been guided by three principles – excellence, loyalty and service. Design excellence is characterized by design that is aesthetically pleasing, distinctive and tailored to client needs.
MDS Architecture, PC is committed to providing built environments that enrich our communities and improve the way we work and live our lives. We pride ourselves in “thinking outside the box” to create commercial design solutions that not only serve the needs of the space but do so in an enjoyable and exciting manner.
Michael is principal and founder of MDS. He founded MDS with a vision to transform the educational design landscape to enhance learning for every student. He was always in the forefront of design when he introduced the Fab Labs (Fabrication Labs), STEAM Rooms, open-concept multi-purpose and outdoor classrooms, innovative athletic facilities, and college-style cafeterias to various K-12 schools in Long Island.
Michael’s motto has always been about building mutually trusting relationships with each client. With this trust, aspirations of what each client wants to achieve is limitless as ideas can flow and bounce around until the best solution is dreamt, found and built into reality. This is deeply instilled in MDS and transpired through each and every project.
Born in New York, Michael also spent time living in Florida and Paris. He is bilingual in Spanish. He has four sons and four pups, Chloe, Cassie, Lexi, and Daisy. In his down time, he loves spending time by the ocean.
Over the course of her career, Susan Sassoon, RA, AIA, has been the project architect on a diverse range of building types, including schools, retail shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants, offices, and residences.
Her goal on every project is to make clients happy by providing creative solutions that will offer them a comfortable and sustainable environment, designed to meet their needs and budget.
A native of Long Island, Susan graduated from University of Maryland’s School of Architecture in 1986 and earned her NYS architecture license in 1992.
Her hobby creating jewelry led to her being named Beadwork magazine’s Designer of the Year in 2019. Susan also enjoys travel, theater and solving puzzles.
Elly studied at SUNY Farmingdale and NYCTC for Architectural Technology. She had almost a decade of experience working with city agencies prior to joining MDS in 2016. Elly is a Senior Project Manager and has a personal interest in approaching architectural design combining classical design concepts with new technology. She enjoys spending her free time with her 7-year-old pembroke welsh corgi.
Kristen Meyer, Project Architect, has been with Mark Design Studios since 2019 and has been a licensed Architect since 2018. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Miami. In addition to Educational Design, she has past experience in Healthcare Design and Permit Expediting. When she’s not busy running a 5k, planning her next globe-trotting adventure or reading up on obscure trivia, you can find her indulged in her relentless pursuit of the perfect grilled cheese. Her career ambition is to retire early and sail the globe on her yacht. Kristen aspires to continue to grow with MDS and embrace the mantle of construction manager.
Senior Project Manager
Fiona started working with us in September, 2021 as an Interior Design Intern and now is currently in the position of Assistant Project Manager. She has her BFA degree in Interior Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). She has a positive and can-do attitude that fits right into our busy firm. Her impressive 3D modeling skills have already contributed greatly to help our clients visualize their projects into reality.
Architectural Designer
Architectural Designer
Frank is a retired public school Director of Facilities with vast experience in both public and private construction projects. Frank is an excellent craftsman and meticulous with knowledge of construction best practices, materials and methods.
