Rhonda Ellis • Architectural Designer • Project Architect
Rhonda has over 20 years experience as project architect for residential projects of every shape and size.
After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Architecture degree, Rhonda worked for several Texas builders before accepting an architectural position with Gym Wilson Architects on LBI in 1989. In 1991 Rhonda joined Michael Pagnotta Architects and has been a key member in the firm ever since.

Rhonda’s pragmatic approach to architecture and desire to develop plans that are easily built in the field has been a key to the firm’s success. She brings a traditional style to her projects and with simple elegance and uncluttered plans being hallmarks of her designs.

Rhonda’s work has earned critical acclaim within our industry. As lead designer for the TallShips development, Michael Pagnotta Architects was the recipient of seven SAM Awards at the NAHB Builder Show including “Best Single Family Home”, and “Community of the Year”.

Over the last several years , Rhonda’s focus has been on the design and documents of some of the best single family homes on the Jersey Shore. Although her background is in larger homes, Rhonda is very comfortable working on a simple addition or renovation- and she brings the same calm and helpful attitude to each project.

When not working, Rhonda spends her time with her three daughters, Allison (Dickinson College) and the twins, Rachel and Carly, who are seniors in high school.

Brian Penschow
Brian Penschow brings variety and strength in design and knowledge to the firm. Educated in engineering at The College of Engineering at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and in architecture at the New Jersey School of Architecture at The New Jersey Institute of Technology, Brian is also a New Jersey State Licensed Building Inspector.

In addition to a strong educational background, Brian possesses ten separate International Code Council Certifications including building inspector, plans examiner, plumbing inspector, mechanical inspector, and electrical inspector. Brian has also recently received certification in Residential Coastal Construction and Flood Prevention from the Federal Emergency Management Association. He is an Associate member of the American Institute of Architects, and is of member of the New Jersey Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council.

Brian’s design experience ranges from custom single and multi-family homes through medical offices and commercial spaces, all the way to religious and educational spaces in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Strong design skills, exceptional knowledge of engineering practices, leadership in energy efficient design, complete construction documentation, project management, and 3-D rendering abilities have made Brian a valued member of the team since joining in 2007.