Emily Paparella

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT EMILY PAPARELLA

Energized by the challenge of design, Emily Paparella joined Elkus Manfredi Architects in 2006 and was named a principal of the firm in 2024. An architect, planner, and project manager of exceptional talent, Emily is equally skilled in both planning and architecture, which allows her to bring an especially broad perspective and a wide range of creativity to every project. Emily’s work has included the master planning of projects in Baltimore, Detroit, Boston, and Cambridge, including MIT’s Kendall Square Initiative Masterplan. A strong leader accomplished in managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders, she has led the planning and design of numerous mixed-use life science, residential, higher education, and renovation projects, most recently Simmons University’s One Campus master plan and design of the Living and Learning Center, Lantera Residences at Boston Landing, and renovations to Harvard University’s famed Peabody Terrace and Soldiers Field Park. Emily has been a Certified Passive House Consultant since 2019 and is a passionate advocate for advancing architecture in response to climate change. She is sought after by project managers across the firm for her in-depth expertise in energy-saving technology, envelope performance, and energy-code compliance. Devoted to her clients and teams, she is dedicated to mentorship, always making time for mentees and colleagues. Beyond the firm, Emily is committed to supporting women in the commercial real estate industry and puts that commitment into action in all her professional work. In 2017, she co-founded the CREW Boston Development Project Management Group, a networking group targeted at women professionals specifically involved in the design and construction of projects. Also in 2017, Emily co-founded the Boston Society for Architecture Mid-Career Mentorship Program to serve mid-career women, who often lack the mentorship opportunities that emerging professionals have. She remains active in these groups and also serves on the Board of AIA Massachusetts. Emily received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Florida and her Master of Architecture from MIT.