meet the team

Purpose. Integrity. Legacy / As a firm partner of more than 30 years, Joel has been instrumental in establishing Neumann/Smith as a firm clients want to work with time and time again. He is inspired by designing meaningful architecture, building lasting relationships, and contributing to our firm’s legacy. Joel’s passion for Detroit’s revitalization can be seen through his work on iconic historic buildings and his additions to the city’s skyline.

As one of the leaders of our firm, Gene enjoys being able to take a high-level role through the entire project, guiding it toward a successful conclusion with each decision made. Never known to shy away from a challenge, Gene is motivated by taking creative risks that transform the client’s goals into a reality. Gene sees each project as an opportunity to contribute to the firm’s reputation as the owner’s architect.

In every position he has held, from Project Architect + Project Manager to his current role, Stan enjoys collaborating to solve problems and design beautiful, innovative solutions. He places great importance on mentoring and was instrumental in establishing the mentorship program at Neumann/Smith.

Mike’s leadership style is driven by his belief that it is only when we combine our forces that we can achieve great results. This is evident by his perseverance and dedication to our firm advancement. Mike has worked on some of the firm’s largest retail and mixed-use projects across the country. Mike is inspired by his appreciation for art, passion for design, and his ongoing contribution to the firm’s legacy.

Dawn’s technical eye and precision elevate every project she touches. Her attention to detail results in impeccable specifications that serve as the roadmap for successful design and construction. Beyond her technical mastery, Dawn’s passion for learning and knowledge-sharing has made her a cornerstone of growth within our team. Her career has evolved alongside advancements in building technology, shifts in codes and standards, and a growing focus on environmental stewardship—all of which have driven our firm forward.

Jim’s philosophy is simple: every project should “say something about something.” He believes architecture and interior design must carry meaning—strengthening identity, supporting mission, and enhancing daily experience. His ability to balance big-picture vision with technical precision allows projects to move from idea to built reality with cohesion and purpose. Throughout his career, he has approached each project with respect for the influence of the built environment. The result is a body of work that reflects both design excellence and long-term impact.

Anyone who works with Pat can tell he deeply cares about the success of his projects. He’s inspired by delivering creative, client-focused solutions that both the firm and the owner are proud of. Pat’s well-rounded knowledge base, eye for detail, and hands-on approach lend themselves well to his role as Principal of Operations. With a background in MEP, structural engineering, and construction, he factors every facet of the built environment into his projects.