Staff

Melanie Hartwig-Davis

AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD + C
Principal / CEO

Melanie Hartwig-Davis is often described as an “Architect Activist.” With over 25 years of experience, her passion for resilient, sustainable design guides every project she undertakes. Melanie’s philosophy that nurturing environments should be accessible to all, not just a privileged few, drives her creative, inclusive approach. She is not only an effective leader and team builder but also uniquely skilled at bridging diverse perspectives, effortlessly connecting corporate executives, grassroots organizers, government officials, and community advocates. Beyond her award-winning practice at HD Squared Architects, Melanie actively contributes her expertise by serving on influential planning and visionary committees across the county and state. Her designs don’t just shelter; they prepare communities to adapt, evolve, and flourish for generations.

John Richards

ASSOC. AIA

Senior Architectural Designer

John C Richards is our senior designer at HD Squared Architects, commenced his architectural career in 1998, garnering rich expertise in diverse fields such as residential, commercial, institutional, and religious architecture, alongside commercial interiors, historic renovations, adaptive reuse, and local government projects. Notably, his contributions have graced award-winning projects like the Unitarian Universalist Church of Rockville, Wyoming Avenue Condominiums, and a DC-based Design Studio, which secured the AIA|DC Chapter Award of Merit in Architecture. With a strong belief in collaborative design, Mr. Richards focuses on fostering client relationships to deliver high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and functional designs. Passionate about sustainability, he actively integrates building design with the natural landscape, striving for a harmonious coexistence between the constructed and natural environments. Beyond his architectural pursuits, he finds joy in travel and cycling, frequently participating in charity fundraising events supporting various causes.

Ian Boutin

ASSOC. AIA

Architectural Designer

Sasha Willis

Operations Manager

Sasha Willis is the Operations Manager at HD Squared Architects, bringing nearly two decades of experience in government HR, business strategy, and creative operations. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the policies, systems, and culture that keep the firm resilient and collaborative, allowing the design team to focus on creating spaces that inspire and serve communities. Believing that strong operations are the backbone of creative success, Sasha is passionate about building environments where both people and projects can thrive. Outside of work, she is a dedicated community builder and educator, and finds joy in long-distance running, traveling with her family, and carving out time for a good book.