Assemble Design Workshop is led by Delia Conache and Chris Emens. Delia focuses on project management and day-to-day operations for the firm, while Chris brings a wealth of technical expertise. Design responsibilities are shared within the firm.
Delia Conache, RA, CPHC
Managing Partner Licensed Architect in IL, NY, VT
Delia has over 15 years of experience with a variety of building types, ranging from complex adaptive reuse and core-and-shell new construction projects, to high profile education and commercial interiors projects.
Prior to founding Assemble Design Workshop, Delia worked in renowned architecture firms such as Robert A.M. Stern Architects, Gensler, Studios Architecture, and CannonDesign. An experienced project architect and project manager, Delia enjoys leading strong teams, partnering with clients, consultants and contractors, and guiding projects toward a successful outcome.
Delia holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Middlebury College. She is a registered architect in the states of Illinois, New York, and Vermont. Delia is also a Certified Passive House Consultant.
Delia loves traveling and exploring new places, going to museums, biking, watching Formula 1 (#teamLH) and tennis (allegiances vary), playing squash, and reading about high altitude mountaineering.
NOTABLE PROJECTS
Deerfield Supportive Living, Deerfield, IL | 2023-Present Directed the design and production for a new, ground-up supportive living facility consisting of 147 single units, the first building of its kind on the Chicago North Shore.
Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL | 2022-2023 Directed the conceptual designs for two new projects, one of which is recommended for incorporation into the LPZ Masterplan.
Maria Elena Sifuentes Apartments, Chicago, IL | 2020-2023 Collaborated with UrbanWorks Ltd. to convert the building from a modular design to conventional construction. Provided project management and operational support.
Chelsea Market, New York, NY | Studios Architecture, 2013-2015 Led architectural team in completing the documentation for the 50,000 SF conversion of complex cellar storage and mechanical spaces into valuable retail space. Directed the development of change of use application for the entire cellar level, which was approved by the NYC Department of Buildings without any comments.
900 16th Street, Washington D.C. | Robert A.M. Stern Architects, 2011 Participated in presenting concepts to clients, city agencies, and neighborhood associations during a year-long approvals process. Contributed to the development of many design options during the conceptual design phase.
Chris Emens, RA
Partner
Licensed Architect in IL
With over 17 years of experience in the multifamily housing sector, Chris brings a wealth of planning and technical expertise to any project.
Chris has completed several major multifamily high rise projects in Chicago, New York, and Boston. Chris combines a design background with technical expertise to make projects a reality. With an active interest in innovative building practices and materials, Chris seeks elegant solutions to complex building challenges.
Chris holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin, and a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Florida. He is a registered architect in the State of Illinois.
In his down time, Chris enjoys spending time tinkering in his woodshop, sketching, working out, biking and traveling.
NOTABLE PROJECTS
Deerfield Supportive Living, Deerfield, IL | 2023-Present Directed all technical aspects for this new supportive living facility, including code, fire code, ADA and material research.
Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL | 2022-2023 Managed the technical aspects for the conceptual design of 2 confidential projects.
Maria Elena Sifuentes Apartments, Chicago, IL | 2020-2023 Principal-in-charge for 66,600 SF, 6-story affordable multifamily housing project with 50 residential units in Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood.
Porte Apartments, Chicago, IL | GREC Architects, Project Architect, 2017-2018 Led the design of interior amenity spaces and overall documentation strategy for this 720,000 SF, 586 unit development in Chicago‘s West Loop.
Landmark West Loop, Chicago, IL | GREC Architects, Project Architect, 2015-2017 Led the documentation and construction administration phases for this 450,000 SF, 300 unit residential tower in Chicago’s West Loop.
OneEleven | Chicago, IL | Handel Architects, Project Designer, 2014-2015 Responsible for unit plan development and enclosure coordination for 928,000 SF, 58-story luxury residential tower located along the Chicago River.