Beyond the Handshake: Building Meaningful Professional Relationships
By Lori Apfel Cardeli, AIA, NCARB
In the piece, I reflect on how connection, mentorship, and community have shaped my path in architecture—from my very first outreach to a local AIA chapter in high school to the professional network I’m grateful for today.
I hope it offers ideas, encouragement, and inspiration for building your own network—and reminds us all that the relationships we foster can be just as impactful as the projects we design.
Lori Apfel Cardeli, AIA, NCARB
Lori Apfel Cardeli, AIA, NCARB
Owner | Principal
LACArch
www.lacarch.com/
A full-service architectural design firm with a focus on the design, project management, and construction of single-family custom homes, renovations, and additions.
LACArch is an Architecture Firm Annual Partner of AIA Potomac Valley.


