Berkshire Edge
Monica Bliss
Business Briefs, September 14, 2026
Photos by Sam Backhaus
Stockbridge, Mass. — Pamela Sandler Architect announces the hiring of Barbara Olsen Pascale and Max Kapiloff as Architectural Designers, and Andrew Rota as Director of Interiors and Operations, as it expands its capabilities to offer full-service interior design, creating a seamless, single-source experience for its clients.
Barbara Olsen Pascale. Courtesy Pamela Sandler Architect.
A veteran construction project manager with professional experience as a cabinet maker and finish carpenter, Barbara Olsen Pascale brings a formidable combination of academic rigor and hands-on craftsmanship to the team. She earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the New York Institute of Technology following a BS in Applied Economics from Cornell University. Her design philosophy is rooted in a love for natural materials, modern forms, and contemporary lines.
Max Kapiloff. Courtesy Pamela Sandler Architect.
Max Kapiloff returns to the Berkshires following a successful seven-year career in New York City, where he collaborated on complex retail, hospitality, and luxury residential projects at top-tier firms including Design Republic and CetraRuddy. Max holds a Master of Architecture from Wentworth Institute of Technology, with international studies in Berlin and Kyoto. His thesis allowed him to immerse himself in Japanese design philosophy, a perspective further enriched by travels through Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Max’s style is a thoughtful fusion, blending high-tech digital modeling with a physical, tactile approach to design.
Andrew Rota. Courtesy Pamela Sandler Architect
As Pamela Sandler’s son, Andrew Rota was on job sites and at the drafting table long before launching his professional career. He earned his degree in Business/Marketing from Northeastern University, and also holds a Design Certificate degree from Shillington in London. Andrew has spent over a decade leading business strategy, marketing, and design at major technology companies, including Intuit and DoorDash, with a focus on human-centered experiences and clear, thoughtful strategy. Realizing his ideal combination of business, design, and meaningful impact was close to home, Andrew returned to the firm. He believes architecture and interiors can fundamentally shape how people feel and live every day, knowing that the firm’s work is not simply about creating a building.
“We are thrilled to welcome Max, Barbara, and Andrew to the firm,” said Sandler. “Their unique backgrounds, ranging from deep technical construction management to global design philosophies, perfectly complement our commitment to creating spaces that are both beautifully envisioned and meticulously built. As we continue to grow, their diverse skills will be invaluable to our clients and our collaborative process.”
