Architecture should feel rooted in its setting and refined through collaboration. Every project begins by listening — understanding the aims, constraints, and experiences our clients value most. Early hand sketches capture the project’s character, while careful study of topography, light, and context shapes forms that harmonize with nature and extend spatial potential. Interiors are designed to feel intuitive, warm, and connected with moments of clarity and quiet delight.
AI tools support this philosophy by helping us simulate daylight, test materials, and visualize sequences early in the process. Technology sharpens the work, but the human voice leads it.
A selection of sketches and studies illustrating an iterative design process—from initial observation to spatial and urban exploration. Each investigation informs project direction, helping translate constraints into design opportunities.
Harry Burrell is an accomplished architectural planner and studio principal with more than 30 years of experience shaping master plans and designing civic, residential, and mixed-use environments across Maryland, Washington, DC, Florida, and international markets. His work spans Maryland, Washington, DC, Florida, the Caribbean, West Africa, South America and the Middle East—bringing a global design perspective grounded in cultural sensitivity and contextual understanding.
As founder of Burrell Architects LLC, Harry brings a rare blend of strategic vision, emotional depth, and technical precision to every project—creating architecture that resonates with both purpose and value.
Harry’s design philosophy begins with listening. He believes that great architecture starts by understanding the client’s values, aspirations, and story. Every concept begins with a hand sketch, anchoring ideas in authenticity and intuition. From there, he integrates advanced digital and AI-driven tools, crafting a hybrid workflow that bridges timeless artistry with cutting-edge innovation. For Harry, architecture is more than site-driven—it’s a storytelling medium, shaping spaces that invite people to experience them in a personal, memorable way.
Throughout his career, Harry has led projects that range from intimate residences to large-scale civic and mixed-use developments. His work reflects a commitment to design excellence, sustainability, and community impact. Though a sole practitioner, Harry thrives in collaboration, partnering with consultants, engineers, and specialists to deliver solutions that are both thoughtful and technically sound. Clients are invited into the creative process as co-authors of their vision, ensuring that every project feels personal and deeply connected to its context.
Known for his branded presentations, visual storytelling, and mentorship of emerging talent, Harry brings clarity and creativity to every engagement. His ability to translate complex ideas into compelling narratives has earned him a reputation for delivering designs that are as functional as they are emotionally engaging.
Burrell Architects LLC is dedicated to creating spaces that elevate everyday life—projects that balance beauty, functionality, and purpose. Our current focus spans bespoke residential design, innovative commercial environments, and strategic property acquisitions that strengthen communities and leave a lasting, dignified impact. Every design is an opportunity to craft architecture that feels human, timeless, and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Sonia LaFountain brings more than 30 years of professional experience in business development, strategic growth, and commercial partnerships, with a proven track record of helping organizations expand market presence, strengthen client relationships, and build long-term value.
As Vice President of Business Development, Sonia plays a key leadership role in shaping the firm’s growth strategy, identifying new opportunities, and cultivating strategic partnerships across the public and private sectors. Her background spans managing and growing businesses, leading cross-functional teams, and developing high-impact collaborations that align vision, design excellence, and business objectives.
Sonia is recognized for her ability to connect people, ideas, and opportunities—bridging strategy and execution to support sustainable growth. Her collaborative approach, deep industry insight, and relationship-driven leadership make her an integral member of the Burrell Architects team, contributing well beyond traditional business development functions.
With a focus on long-term partnerships and client success, Sonia supports Burrell Architects’ mission to deliver thoughtful, people-centered design while expanding the firm’s reach and influence.
Agnes Oasan Donaldson is a highly accomplished interior design professional with over 30 years of experience specializing in hospitality and commercial interior design. Her work spans the full project lifecycle—from initial client consultation and conceptual design through construction documentation, installation, and final execution—delivering environments that are both functional and visually compelling.
Throughout her career, Agnes has demonstrated strong leadership in project management, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, guiding design consultants, and ensuring strict adherence to brand standards, budgets, and schedules. She brings extensive experience working alongside architects, owners, vendors, and consultants, reviewing shop drawings, managing sample room prototypes, and conducting on-site inspections to maintain quality and design integrity.
Agnes’s design expertise includes space planning, interior perspective renderings, custom furniture design, FF&E specifications, and construction detailing. Her creative background is further strengthened by fine-arts training, including hand drafting, charcoal portraiture, and painting in oil, watercolor, and acrylic media—bringing a refined, artistic sensibility to every project.
Her professional career includes senior roles with industry-leading organizations such as BBGM Architects + Interiors, Marriott International’s International Design Division, and Development Design Group, where she delivered high-level hospitality interiors for both domestic and international projects.
Agnes’s work and professional accomplishments have been featured in Marriott World Monthly, the USTAA Awards Publication, and publications by the Council of Philippine Arts & Architecture.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Fine Arts with a major in Interior Design from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines, and is an active member of the Philippine Association of Architects & Interior Design (Maryland Chapter) and USTAA Washington, D.C.
Ruthie is a highly accomplished interior designer with extensive experience spanning hospitality, mixed-use, high-end residential, and contract design. Known for her strong work ethic and creative versatility, she is both a self-starter and a collaborative team member who brings thoughtful, well-executed design solutions to every project. Her keen analytical mindset, paired with excellent interpersonal skills, allows her to navigate complex projects while maintaining strong client relationships.
With over four decades of industry experience, Ruthie has led and contributed to a wide range of projects from concept through completion. As the Owner of Designworks (2002–2022), she successfully directed the development of comprehensive design schemes, including space planning, millwork detailing, and the selection of furniture, fixtures, and equipment. She worked closely with clients to present concepts, develop proposals, and ensure each project aligned with both vision and budget.
Previously, as Director of Interior Design / Senior Associate at Development Design Group, Ruthie managed multidisciplinary teams and oversaw project schedules, budgets, and design execution. She played a key role in guiding design direction, coordinating across disciplines, and ensuring accuracy and completeness throughout the project lifecycle. Her leadership extended to mentoring designers and maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.
Earlier in her career, Ruthie held senior roles at CADO International and Marriott Corporation, where she built a strong foundation in large-scale hospitality design. She managed projects from conceptual development to final installation, collaborated with architects and consultants, and contributed to the successful execution of hotel renovations and new builds ranging from 250 to 1,500 rooms.
Ruthie holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Santo Tomas (1974). Her depth of experience, attention to detail, and passion for design make her a valuable collaborator and a trusted contributor to any design team.
