Welcome Piya!

The Comma Designworks office just keeps on growing! Piya Iselin, our newest architectural designer comes with a fresh perspective and a passion for creative problem-solving. Let's keep the girl power going strong!

Some people take years to discover their calling - but not Piya. At just 12 years old, a visit to The Miniature World Museum in Canada with her aunt sparked a lifelong fascination with architecture. She was captivated by the intricate and scenic models on display, and that moment stuck with her. Born in India and deeply inspired by its rich visual culture, Piya has always loved painting and drawing. Architecture felt like a natural fit - an expressive, creative field with purpose and impact. Of course, art teacher was also in the running... but we're glad she chose this path!

Piya's academic journey took her far - both intellectually and geographically. She earned both her undergraduate and master's degrees in architecture from Washington State University and had the unique opportunity to study abroad during both programs. As an undergrad, she explored the urban design landscapes of Chicago and San Francisco, while her graduate studies took her even farther afield to Japan and the Netherlands, where she gained international insight into architectural design and cultural context.

During her graduate studies, Piya took on a deeply meaningful project that addressed homelessness in the United States. Tasked with designing attainable housing solutions, she developed prototypes that could realistically be built by organizations like Habitat for Humanity - balancing cost, function, and compassion. The experience deepened her commitment to using architecture as a tool for social impact, and further sharpened her ability to find creative, practical solutions to complex problems.

Between her two degrees, Piya hit pause on school to explore a different path - an internship in business. This unexpected detour broadened her perspective beyond the drafting table. Through her internship, she was exposed to the world of construction logistics and supply chain management, learning how products are sourced, shipped, and stored. The experience allowed her to work closely with people in different roles and industries, giving her a different view of how architectural designs fit into the bigger picture of building and development.

When asked what she loves most about architecture, Piya finds it hard to pick just one thing. But if she had to choose, it would be, "Getting to come up with a creative solution and seeing the client happy. Innovative solutions with a creative twist and fun atmosphere make my job really satisfying."

When Piya isn't having fun at work, she keeps her creativity flowing in other ways. She's getting back into painting and is currently growing a small garden - including an avocado tree! She's also an avid runner and has been part of the Nashville Harriers running club for

five years.