Juli MacDonald

Juli was born in Iowa and grew up in Northern Illinois. After graduating from the University of Illinois, she began her career in Chicago, where she was licensed and gained experience at some of the city’s most prestigious architectural firms. Her most valuable formative experience was at a small practice in Chicago’s near North Shore, where she was responsible for all roles in the design process, gained her passion for historic residential architecture, and learned the significance of working with clients on their most important and personal investments, their homes. It was during this time that she met Steven, her carpenter-husband, at a job site, where they discussed a bathroom. Neither one of them remember the conversation. After relocating with their growing family to New England, Juli’s work as Project Manager and later Studio Manager at an architectural firm in Portsmouth, NH office included the design of several local commercial projects, multiple new waterfront homes, and renovation/additions throughout the Seacoast and Lakes region of New Hampshire, and southern Maine. She values relationships with her colleagues and her clients, and in her projects, she manages team efforts to bring the best solutions to the client, in a process that is efficient and enjoyable. Juli joined OL + in 2021. She is thrilled to be at OL +, being part of the team making beautiful places. A licensed architect with over 25 years of experience, Juli graduated with a BS from the University of Illinois at Champaign, is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and is a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP). Her specialties include waterfront design, historic architecture, and the processes required for zoning and historic approvals. Her work demonstrates a focus on design excellence, service to the client, the environment, and the community. Juli, her husband Steven, and their two sons live in Amesbury, MA. Juli is an active member of the community, where she is on the YWCA’s Roof Over Head Board and Affordable Housing Committee, and also enjoys her work at Our Neighbor’s Table food pantry. Her family is crazy about kayaking and hiking, and also loves movies, especially the classics from the 70’s. They enjoy traveling together and are always planning the next big trip!