WSA FIRESIDE CHAT
WSA’s new Fireside Chat series brings together designers, developers, and creative thinkers for informal, idea-driven conversations about the future of our built environment. Each session unpacks a topic that’s shaping the industry.
THIS SESSION
Not every great project starts with a blank site. Built to Transform dives into the real potential hiding in the buildings we pass by every day: the empty mall anchors, tired offices, and forgotten retail shells waiting for a new story.
In this fireside chat, WSA designers share how they’ve turned underused spaces into thriving coworking environments, what makes these projects pencil out for developers, and why adaptive reuse is becoming the smarter, faster path to value.
Pull up a chair, grab a drink, and join the conversation on how design and development meet to bring new life to what’s already built.
BUILT TO TRANSFORM
Join us as we talk about turning overlooked spaces into opportunity.
THURSDAY, NOV. 13
4:00 - 5:00
Arrival and Networking
5:00 - 5:45
Fireside Chat
5:45
Wrap up and Refreshments
WHY ATTEND?
Hear stories of transformation, from empty retail shells to thriving creative spaces
Learn how a culture of curiosity and problem-solving drives adaptive reuse success
Connect with peers across design, real estate, development, and construction
Experience WSA’s culture of open dialogue and design exploration
YOUR FIRESIDERS
This chat is an adaptation of a CEU presented this year at NeoCon 2025. Hear from the same team that spoke to leading designers across the Midwest and beyond.
PHIL RIAZZI, AIA
Phil, an experienced architect and Project Manager at WSA, specializes in the adaptive reuse of contemporary and suburban structures. Phil's expertise spans a wide range of projects, from repurposing office complexes to revitalizing underutilized suburban sites. He employs cutting-edge technology and sustainable design principles to breathe new life into modern structures, creating environments that respond to evolving community needs. Phil's work demonstrates how adaptive reuse can enhance urban and suburban landscapes, promote environmental sustainability, and foster community engagement.
KIRSTEN SHEELY, NCIDQ, IIDA
Kirsten Sheely, Principal at WSA, is a leader in transforming underutilized commercial spaces into vibrant community destinations. Her innovative work with national coworking providers has revolutionized how we approach vacant retail and commercial properties. Kirsten specializes in reimagining overlooked buildings into dynamic, tech-enabled environments that serve modern users. Her projects demonstrate how thoughtful adaptation can transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary community assets while promoting sustainable development.
LAUREN MILLER, AIA
Lauren Miller, Senior Architect at WSA, leads design teams in discovering the hidden potential of unremarkable buildings. Her expertise in creative adaptation has transformed numerous overlooked properties into impactful, authentic environments. Lauren's approach combines innovative problem-solving with practical experience to elevate ordinary spaces. Her work demonstrates how strategic design intervention can unlock extraordinary possibilities in existing buildings while preserving resources and enhancing community value.