David Ottavio

With more than 20 years of experience, David has a specialized expertise in the programming, planning and design of educational and institutional buildings. Working closely with clients and user groups, he develops state-of-the-art instructional spaces and innovative collaboration environments, which foster a sense of community and identity.

David is highly adept and experienced at managing all of the intricacies of campus projects, from cost control to community stakeholder meetings. He has developed particular expertise in the design and construction of business schools, including major projects for the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

David seeks to generate organizational principles for the buildings he works on that reflect its specific character and that of the institution it serves. A technology expert, David also advocates for the incorporation of technology-rich, state-of-the-art learning and study environments, emphasizing the importance of program flexibility. At Morgan State University, he led the management of the new Earle G. Graves School of Business & Management, ensuring the alignment of architectural aspirations and the university’s budget goals, while maintaining the fulfillment of a diverse program.

David also has significant experience in the project management of office buildings, including a complex repositioning project of 75 Rockefeller Plaza, which involved core relocation and an expanded ground-level public concourse. He also contributed to the LEED Platinum-rated 10 Hudson Yards, the first completed building within the Hudson Yards master plan.