About
Biography
I recall the beginning of my interest in the spaces we live in from an early age, when I would admire the homes along my daily route delivering the local newspaper. My father, as a carpenter, gave me further insight and practical hands-on experience in how we build. I’ve spent the years since gaining a broader understanding of why we build.
Originally from central Pennsylvania, I have called Pittsburgh my home for over thirty-five years. I’ve had the pleasure of working on many different projects including commercial, medical and ecclesiastical buildings, although I find residential work the most rewarding.
With my passion for the built environment and years of experience, I enjoy guiding clients through the entire process from concept to realization. I am an autodidactic architect, currently licensed in Washington D.C. My professional achievements are complemented with community service in my time on the Dormont Borough Zoning Review Board.
I share a life with my wife, Maggie and our two cats, making a home in the South Hills of Allegheny County. We are avid campers and enjoy the outdoors.
Shawn L. Shimel, Architect
What Our Clients Say
“Shawn immediately becomes a member of the family team, sharing a mutual goal. He looks for cost effective means of achieving the dream. He’s honest in his appraisal of the project, offering ideas and alternatives that makes a project a reality.”
Bob M., Pittsburgh
“Shawn is a natural collaborator, providing the right amount of handholding and guidance that allowed me to be my own G.C. Renovating a family home, built 75 years ago by our dad, we professionally completed a full-house renovation that included structural additions, expanded spaces and a reconfiguration of existing space into an updated, warm, and modern house, while respecting the unique features that made this place home. The transformation is nothing less than amazing.”
Irena K., South Hills area