Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Dori Renelus

Valley Stream,NY

Summary

My journey into architectural design is shaped by a diverse background in project management, client relations, and sustainability advocacy, all of which inform my approach and commitment to designing for a regenerative and carbon-neutral future. Great architecture is more than just buildings—it’s about the people who inhabit them, the environments they shape, and the stories they foster. My goal is to contribute to projects that enhance communities while reducing environmental impact.
Project & Team Management: My experience leading projects in previous roles has given me the ability to navigate complex design processes, collaborate across disciplines, and ensure that vision translates into reality. Client-Centered Approach: Having worked closely with clients across industries, I understand the importance of designing with end-users in mind. Sustainability Focus: Staying at the forefront of sustainable innovation, emerging building technologies, and advocating for a future where low-carbon, high-performance design is the standard.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience

Work History

Project Consultant

Mattaforma
01.2023 - 06.2024
  • Project: Adaptive Daily Living Space at the JFK Jr
  • School
  • Conversion of a classroom into an apartment for training young adults with Autism and multiple disabilities to be independent
  • As the Client Liaison, ensured clear communication and understanding of project requirements
  • Gathered critical data and insights for project planning and development, including site assessments
  • Conducted on-site surveys and investigations to document site conditions, of interiors and various structural and mechanical systems
  • Assisted in preparing detailed field notes and collaborated with architectural and engineering teams to create technical and investigative reports that support forensic findings
  • Prepared initial site drawings and specifications
  • Provided construction administration services to oversee project execution and adherence to design standards

Project Manager

SenzaCasa
01.2013 - 12.2020
  • Company Overview: Successfully acquired and renovated 76 residential properties, significantly increasing their market value and rental income potential
  • Developed a strong portfolio of investment properties, demonstrating expertise in market analysis, renovation management, and rental operations
  • Successfully acquired and renovated 76 residential properties, significantly increasing their market value and rental income potential
  • Developed a strong portfolio of investment properties, demonstrating expertise in market analysis, renovation management, and rental operations

Co-Founder + Director

Impact Ayiti
01.2010 - 12.2016
  • Company Overview: Established and led a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Haiti's recovery and rebuilding efforts following the 2010 earthquake
  • Guided the organization's mission, vision, and strategic direction
  • Organizational Leadership: Established and led a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Haiti's recovery and rebuilding efforts following the 2010 earthquake
  • Guided the organization's mission, vision, and strategic direction
  • Program Development and Management: Developed and implemented programs focused on disaster relief, community development, and sustainable rebuilding
  • Coordinated efforts to provide essential resources, including food, shelter, medical supplies, and educational materials
  • Fundraising and Partnerships: Secured funding through grants, donations, and fundraising events
  • Built and maintained partnerships with local and international NGOs, government agencies, and community leaders to maximize impact and reach
  • Community Engagement: Galvanized community members to understand their needs and priorities
  • Facilitated community-driven initiatives, empowering residents to take an active role in the recovery process
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Raised awareness about the ongoing needs and challenges in Haiti through public speaking, media engagement
  • Advocated for policy changes and increased support for disaster-stricken communities
  • Successfully mobilized resources and support, benefiting hundreds of individuals and families affected by the earthquake
  • Established sustainable development projects, including educational and vocational training programs, to empower local communities
  • Fostered a collaborative network of partners, enhancing the organization's ability to respond to ongoing and future crises
  • Established and led a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Haiti's recovery and rebuilding efforts following the 2010 earthquake
  • Guided the organization's mission, vision, and strategic direction

Design Director of Footwear

Various Companies
01.2004 - 12.2012
  • Design Director Brands: NINE WEST, New Balance Key Responsibilities and Achievements:
  • Concept Development: Spearheaded the creation of seasonal style and material concepts, sketches and renders of original footwear concepts ensuring alignment with brand D.N.A
  • market trends and consumer insights
  • Trend Analysis and Research: Conducted extensive research on market trends, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies
  • Applied insights to design products that met the needs and expectations of target customers
  • Color and material application: Apply across product line ranges each season including the creation of color CAD's, material maps and graphic tech packs
  • Ability to use an exploratory process to reach a final solution
  • Innovative Use of Materials: Introduced and experimented with new materials and techniques, contributing to cutting-edge design solutions
  • Team Leadership: Led and mentored a design team, supporting daily projects and inspiring a creative mindset
  • Fostered a collaborative environment encouraging innovation and growth
  • Guided junior designers in skill development and career advancement
  • Travel: to Europe and Asia 6–8 times per year for shopping and product development
  • Presentation to Leadership: Presented footwear collections to leadership, clearly communicating design concepts, constructions, and the strategic vision behind each collection
  • Data-Driven Design: Integrated feedback from sales reports into the design process, continually refining and improving product offerings based on consumer preferences and sales performance

Education

Associate of Arts and Sciences - AAS - Fashion/Apparel Design

Parsons School of Design - The New School

Bachelor of Applied Science - BASc - Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities

The New School

Master of Architecture - MArch - Architecture

Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation
New York, NY
05-2025

Skills

  • Project monitoring
  • Project planning and development
  • Business development
  • People management
  • Design leadership
  • Design research
  • Product design
  • Creative direction
  • Accessibility design

Languages

Spanish
Full Professional
French
Limited Working
Italian
Limited Working

Timeline

Project Consultant

Mattaforma
01.2023 - 06.2024

Project Manager

SenzaCasa
01.2013 - 12.2020

Co-Founder + Director

Impact Ayiti
01.2010 - 12.2016

Design Director of Footwear

Various Companies
01.2004 - 12.2012

Bachelor of Applied Science - BASc - Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities

The New School

Associate of Arts and Sciences - AAS - Fashion/Apparel Design

Parsons School of Design - The New School

Master of Architecture - MArch - Architecture

Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation
Dori Renelus