Our Practice
Practice
VIA design isn’t just about designing spaces; we’re about shaping the future. Guided by our three core principles of future-focused design, client-centricity, and community-driven initiatives, we strive to create architecture that not only shapes the built environment but also positively impacts the lives of those who interact with it. These principles are embodied in every project we undertake, from innovative sustainable practices to nurturing the next generation of architects. Our team members are dedicated to strong design and enhancing our communities through our work and civic engagement, a passion that is nurtured through close mentoring, skill building, and exploring the best of the region.
In Fall 2024, VIA was awarded the T. David Fitz-Gibbon Architecture Firm Award by AIA Virginia. This award is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a Virginia-based architecture firm and recognizes firms who are not only known for the quality of their work but who have consistently demonstrated outstanding contributions to the profession and the community. This award is a validation that our core principles extend beyond our firm’s walls and resonate with our clients and colleagues as well.
Our Mission + Vision
Mission
“Inspire, design, and elevate” the daily lives of our clients and the communities we embrace. We believe imagining together is foundational to creating enduring relationships.
Vision
Curate an experience for our clients and communities of positive inspirations, a new awareness of “why” design matters, and an elevated appreciation for impactful architecture and site design.
THE VIA TEAM
Scott Campbell, AIA, LEED AP® BD+C
President
Scott, a Virginia Tech graduate, started at VIA as an architectural intern right out of school and has been with the company for over 15 years. On January 1, 2025, he assumed joint ownership of VIA and now serves as its President.
His strength as an architect is his ability to think and create 3-dimensionally, utilizing 3-D software to support, shape, and reinforce the design from the onset of a project. Scott’s 3-dimensional creativity, coupled with his communication and graphics talents translate to all building and project types, enabling him to work on a variety of projects with a special focus on affordable housing, existing building transformations, educational/research facilities and all projects located on or near the water.
Beyond VIA, Scott dedicates his time and energies to supporting his community as a “citizen architect”, recognizing the impact that architects’ insights and training can contribute to their local communities. He has served on various committees and held multiple leadership positions such as both the local and state chapters of the AIA (AIA HR and AIA VA), D'Art Center Board, and most recently has joined the Downtown Norfolk Council and the Norfolk Innovation Corridor’s Science and Technology Board.
When he's not busy being a boss, Scott loves spending time with his family, playing sand volleyball, and getting his hands dirty in the yard.
Awards + Honors
Inside Business: Top 40 Under 40 Honoree (2017)
AIA Hampton Roads Honor Awards: Young Architect Award (2017)
AIA Virginia Honor Awards: Virginia Emerging Professional Award (2021)
AIA Hampton Roads Honor Awards: President’s Honor Award (2023)
Andrew McKinley, AIA, LEED AP®
Chief Executive Officer
Awards + Honors
AIA Virginia Honor Awards: Virginia Emerging Professional Award (2019)
AIA Hampton Rods Honor Awards: Young Architect Award (2019)
Donna Phaneuf, FAIA
Founder, President Emeritus + Architectural Consultant
As VIA’s founding principal, Donna Phaneuf has cultivated a culture of innovation and excellence. She thrives on giving the ordinary extra attention to obtain extraordinary results. This has been a career long journey, one day at a time, in the art of growing meaningful and productive creative practice. Her clients are exceptional people and the exchange of ideas and knowledge with them affords her the audience and fellowship she enjoys today. She has learned that creativity is not a talent. It is a way of operating and this is her art and the genesis of her design energies.
Donna established VIA in 1991, becoming a pioneer in architectural practice in Hampton Roads. Despite facing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, she fearlessly navigated the profession and proved that women could excel in leadership roles. Her unwavering passion and commitment to design have inspired countless professionals. Her work, which spans a wide range of projects from urban redevelopment to educational facilities and waterfront developments, is rooted in a deep understanding of place and a commitment to sustainability. Beyond her design work, Donna is a dedicated mentor and community leader. She has served on numerous boards and committees, advocating for the importance of design in shaping our built environment. Donna's visionary leadership, passion for architecture, and unwavering dedication to our clients and community have been instrumental in shaping VIA into the respected firm it is today.
As of January 1st, 2025, Donna has transitioned to a consultant role, where she will continue to share her expertise and guidance. Her legacy at VIA is one of innovation, leadership, and community impact. Her unwavering dedication to her craft and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of architects have solidified her legacy. Her vision continues to inspire the firm's work and guide its future.
“I’ve always enjoyed the endless pursuit of doing what you love and the resilience it brings as leadership is not about having great ideas; it is about ensuring light is brought to the best ideas and they are allowed to emerge.”
Awards + Honors
Women in Business: Achievement Award Winner (2005)
City of Norfolk Historic and Architectural Preservation Committee: Outstanding Service to the Citizens of Norfolk (2014)
AIA College of Fellows: Elevation (2018)
AIA Hampton Roads Honor Awards: Honor Award for Distinguished Achievement (2021)
Keith Oliver, PLA, ASLA, LEED AP®
Principal Landscape Architect Emeritus
Keith is celebrating a four-decade career, having successfully navigated both the public and private sectors, including 19 years with his firm InSites, and 5 with VIA. A remarkable aspect of Keith’s career is that he has typically worked individually or in small landscape divisions with 2 to 4 landscape architects and designers yet he achieves results that equal or exceed those of large and mega-firms. He is a maverick in the best sense of the word, often charting his own course to take on new challenges, with a rare ability to effectively collaborate with just about anyone.
Landscape architecture has taught Keith to be patient and appreciate the value of a long-term goal. He is especially proud of the work he did 18 months out of school laying the groundwork in the 1980s for an ambitious vision of over 100 miles of “river parks” along the five major watercourses throughout the Tucson basin. In 2018, the vision of an off-road network of trails encircling Tucson was realized, the 137 mile “Huckleberry Loop”, named the Best Recreational Trail in the United States by USA Today in 2021 and 2022. The bulk of his work has been dedicated to public open space and infrastructure, supportive housing, and public art - work which improves the quality of life for the broadest spectrum of society.
Keith is looking forward to new life adventures in faraway lands with his soulmate Rick.
“The important thing is not how many years in your life but how much life in your years.” Edward J. Stieglitz, M.D.
Ananth Jayaraj , Assoc. AIA
Project Designer
Born in Dubai with Indian roots, AJ moved to the US to pursue his undergraduate studies at Virginia Tech, graduating in May 2023. He comes to VIA with two years of architectural experience and has worked on a diverse range of projects, including banks, small-scale residential designs, and government developments. He also has his LEED GA certificate and participated in the ELA program last year!
AJ is an avid reader and plant enthusiast, and enjoys sketching. When the weather is just right, you’ll likely find him out exploring the city!
Andre Rezaie, Assoc. AIA
Project Designer
Andre is a Project Designer with experience designing at a range of scales, from fire pits and park pavilions to mixed-use developments and streetscapes. He holds a Master of Urban Design from the University of Virginia and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin, equipping him with a host of skills to turn spaces into memorable, engaging places.
In his free time, Andre loves watching sports, attending concerts, and trying out new spots to grub - he credits his background as a Texan with parents from Peru and Iran for his appreciation of any and all good food.
Anthea Comas, AIA
Project Architect
Anthea joined the VIA team this past summer and comes to VIA with 10+ years of experience in all aspects of design and production. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, she moved to Tennessee during high school and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Architecture from the University of Memphis. Her professional experience spans a variety of sectors, including casino and hospitality design, as well as educational and civic structures. In addition, she is highly proficient in BIM and the production of construction documents in every phase. Anthea is passionate about every aspect of the endlessly fascinating field of architecture. She is deeply interested in the phenomenological aspects of the spaces that we create and strives to create spaces that positively impact the people that inhabit them.
She recently relocated to Virginia Beach with her husband and teenage son and is a passionate sailor who loves to travel, garden, cook, and read on the beach.
Ayesha Shaikh, Assoc. AIA
Project Designer
Ayesha is an accomplished Project Designer with extensive experience in architecture and design. With a Master of Architecture from Virginia Tech and a Bachelor of Architecture from Thakur School of Architecture and Planning in Mumbai, India, Ayesha has a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of design. As a licensed architect in India, she brings a unique perspective to her work that is informed by her cultural background and experiences. Ayesha is a strong communicator and collaborator, and enjoys working closely with clients, stakeholders, and project teams to ensure that all needs and expectations are met. Her creative problem-solving skills and ability to think outside the box make her a valuable asset to any project.
Ayesha is an active member of AIA CoVA, attending local events, keeping our team informed and involved, and leading our volunteer efforts.
Awards + Honors
AIA Virginia Honor Awards: Virginia Associates Award (2025)
Delaney Bement
Project Designer
Delaney Bement is a Project Interior Designer at VIA, where she brings her unique vision to every project. She has a BFA degree in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Virginia Beach and is a pro when it comes to making spaces beautiful. When she's not designing, you can find her hanging out with the office pups or grooving at music festivals with her boyfriend. With Delaney on the job, you know your space will be both functional and fabulous!
Iroda Karimova,
Project Leader
Iroda was born in Uzbekistan, Central Asia, and moved to the United States at the age of 18. She earned a Master of Architecture degree from Hampton University and has 11 years of experience in architecture and construction. Her experience ranges from creating detailed drawings for steel frame construction to designing K-12 schools and municipal buildings, as well as overseeing construction administration.
In her free time, Iroda enjoys watching movies with her children, traveling, hiking park trails, and bead weaving jewelry.
Jacob Liu, Assoc. AIA
Architectural Designer
Jacob, originally from Shandong, China, moved to the United States at the age of 11. He holds a Master of Architecture from Hampton University and has been actively working in the field since 2017. His professional experience includes a variety of architectural styles, ranging from office towers and retail shopping centers to residential towers, public schools, and governmental projects.
In his free time, he enjoys traveling, hiking, camping, fishing, and golfing.
Jelany Diaz, NCIDQ
Jelany is an NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer who brings over 10 years of experience to our team. He was born and raised in The Bronx, is a Navy veteran, and has resided in Virginia since he was 18. He began working in the field in 2013 after earning a Bachelor's in Interior Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. His experience includes healthcare, commercial, and residential design, from selecting interior finishes to creating detailed construction documents and overseeing construction administration.
In his free time, Jelany enjoys DIY projects, eating, cooking, traveling, golfing, and spending time with his wife and daughter.
Lorin H Schwartz, AIA, LEED Green Associate
Project Leader
Lorin was born and raised in Norfolk. He earned a Master of Architecture from Hampton University in 2017 and has seven and a half years of experience working on K12, municipal, state, and federal projects ranging from from roof and HVAC replacements to school auditoriums to training facilities. Lorin is a LEED Green Associate and is currently studying for his LEED AP BD+C certification. He also brings over half a decade of Construction Administration experience!
In his free time, Lorin enjoys photography, woodworking, and cooking!
Malasia Cherry
Design Technology Associate
Malasia first joined VIA as a participant in the 2024 Summer Intern Fellowship, which focused on exploring Intelligence Amplification (IA) and AI's role in empowering designers. Her contributions and interest in the industry led to a quick transition to her current role as a Creative Technologist, working under our Design Technology Director. Malasia is a Virginia Tech alumna with a degree in Creative Technologies and she specializes in 3D media, from modeling to animation to rendering. She is pursuing a Master of Arts in Animation and VFX and is eager to integrate her studies into her work at VIA.
In her free time, she enjoys being active and spending time with family. She also enjoys reading, writing, and PC gaming—a passion that sparked her career in 3D animation and visualization.
Maria Martinez
Marketing and Event Coordinator
Maria is VIA's first point of contact, the voice on the phone, and the creative eye behind VIA's digital and print assets. She also manages VIA's social media accounts and organizes events at the Essex. She enjoys working behind the scenes, bringing a calming presence and can-do attitude while making sure VIA's visual communication is both compelling and impactful.
Though new to the architecture industry, Maria brings 10+ years of marketing and event experience across various industries and has honed her skills in organization, communication, and creative problem-solving—skills she now applies to her work at VIA.
In her free time, she can usually be found winding down with a good book or rocking out at a concert, while Summer days are spent relaxing on the beach or biking around town with friends.
Marshall Dreiling, MBA
Design Technology Director
Marshall originally joined VIA as Branding Director and now serves as the firm's Design Technology Director, ensuring the smooth operation of our digital design processes. His background—with parents in the architecture field, a BS in Industrial Design, and an MBA from Philadelphia University—gives him a broad understanding of the design world, which he applies to creating VIA's compelling visuals and translating our team's creative concepts into compelling visuals for clients and the public.
When he's not busy creating stunning visuals for VIA, you can find him cheering on his favorite team, Arsenal, or chowing down on some delicious Jack Browns burgers.
Terry Deglandon
Architectural Consultant
Quality Control + Assurance
Leveraging his extensive architectural background, Terry provides VIA with project consulting services. His 40-year professional history demonstrates a broad range of experience, from designing various building types to managing complex construction projects. He has held key positions in private firms and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, with expertise in project management, design, and construction. His contributions here at VIA are instrumental in maintaining project excellence, while his mentorship supports the professional development of our staff.
2025 Summer interns
Elizabeth Schmidt
Elizabeth is a Toana native and a rising fourth-year at the University of Virginia. Outside of the classroom, she serves as the Arts & Enrichment Director for the University Programs Council, where she runs and plans monthly events (such as a 1,000-person a cappella concert!), and has worked on creating student videogames as a 3D designer. Elizabeth also enjoys playing piano, sewing, woodworking, reading, and gardening!
Katherine McDonald
Katherine is a rising fourth-year at the University of Virginia, majoring in Architecture with a minor in Religious Studies. She's originally from VB, and outside of school, she enjoys baking, weightlifting, and practicing yoga. She's also a big fan of coffee and likes experimenting with making espresso drinks!
Wesley Buskey
Wesley is an RVA native. She’s a rising sophomore at Hampton University pursuing a M.Arch and is joining us as part of the IPAL program! Beyond architecture, she has a passion for music and enjoys spending time crocheting, gaming, cooking/baking, and crafting. She also loves photography!
Yacine Berrada
Yacine's architectural journey has taken him from Morocco to Shanghai, to Blacksburg, and now to Norfolk! He is pursuing both an M.Arch II at Virginia Tech and a MSc in Building Construction Management. He has many passions, including drawing, photography, and judo—where he was a national champion!
Firm awards
AIA Virginia
Honor Award
T. David Fitz-Gibbon Architecture Firm Award
2025
AIA Hampton Roads
Honor Award
Firm Award
2017
Coastal Virginia Magazine
Coastal Virginia Magazine Best of Business Awards
Best Architectural Firm – Gold Winner
2023
Best Architectural Firm
2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024
Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce
2021 COVID-19 Business Resiliency Recognition
Honorable Mention
2021
Volunteer Hampton Roads
The Civic 50 Honoree
2023, 2024
Elizabeth River Project
River Star Business Award
Commitment Level
2024
Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership
Top Virginia Employers for Interns
2024, 2025