sunline studio is a one-woman, international consulting studio that has intentionally completed diverse projects on all sides of the Architecture and construction fields. The varied portfolio that is shown here exemplifies founder, Jen McKelvie’s ability to not only understand a project from multiple angles, viewing it in a macro context, but also exhibits her skill in being able to zoom in on any one aspect her client may need help with, solving problems on the micro scale. This ability to zoom in and out is one of Jen’s best strategies for successful, seamless and enjoyable projects. She is passionate about design and the way it can transport, heal, encourage and bring joy.
I invite you to take a look around, I hope you enjoy the work shown here as much as I enjoyed working on these projects.
The work shown here exhibits how architecture can become a through line for a brand without being the only thing one sees, without being gimmicky or cliche. All the spaces shown here are unique, but speak the same design language, allowing the interior design and the client’s branding to take front stage.
Each space was treated as a unique problem to solve. Each is in a different city - San Diego, Houston, Vancouver, Canada and Chicago. I gave respect to each location, and let the diverse spaces inform the layout, all the clinics have the exact same program, but the sizes and locations of each space are informed directly by the location, not the other way around. Through a clear set of design principles and program that I composed, I was able to design sixteen clinics and construct and open ten of them in sixteen months, each with a unique perspective on the same design principals.
years completed: 2020, 2021
budgets: Approx. $300,000 per location
projects completed with: Clune, VPAC, Beeson; contractors / Skylar Rote; Interior Design, FF&E / Field Trip Health; Owner/Client Photography
Long time colleague and collaborator, Lynn Fritzlen looked to sunline to lead the Project and Construction Management for Collective Retreat’s New York City location. This project is sited on a six-acre lot on Governors Island, just off the shore of Manhattan. The site is flat and open allowing for beautiful views to the Statue of Liberty and Downtown Manhattan.
Collective Retreats Governors Island is a unique location where one can enjoy the luxries of glamping all while being surrounded by sprawling green space with unparalleled views of lower Mnahattan and the Statue of Liberty across New York Harbor.
This project was challenging because of its temporary nature, as it is deconstructed each fall and re-built each spring. Along with Lynn Fritzlen Architect, we designed a site plan and decks that would have the smallest impact on the site while still meeting NYC’s stringent codes. We landscaped the barren site with native grasses around the tents and installed a sod lawn as a central gathering place. The site utilities, guest bathrooms and back of house kitchen facilities are temporary, all of which I coordinated.
This project highlights my ability to work on an unconventional site and with unconventional methods as well as with a start-up company who looks at the world through a different lens. We were able to guide the client through the rigorous NYC construction permitting process while solving their design problems and giving them a retreat to be proud of. This project was completed on schedule and on budget, both of which were limited. Collective Retreats has experienced high praise for their NYC site and have experienced success with this investment. It was wonderful to be part of such an innovative project.
project role: Project Management, Design, Construction Documentation, Construction Administration
year completed: 2019
budget: undisclosed
project completed with: Loducca Associates, Inc; contractor / LED; engineering / Lynn Fritzlen Architect, AOR / photos by sunline studio unless otherwise noted
365 Bond Street in Gowanus, Brooklyn was a groundbreaking development by Lightstone Group. This project with 430 apartments spanned over 420,000 square feet with 17,000 square feet of amenity space. Fascinatingly, this building was built on a remediated superfund site.
On this project, I was the Interiors Project manager, under Lettire Construction. While working onsite, I managed and coordinated 20+ subcontractors through the bid, buy, contract negotiation, scheduling and requisition process. I also managed the punchlist and closeout. I interfaced daily with the clients and design team in a true collaborative nature to overcome large obstacles and bring the project over the finish line.
I successfully navigated the world of NYC postal services, securing the location a new address as well as passing all inspections on the strict mailroom.
Although I managed the carpenters, stone & tile subs, decorative metal, electricians, flooring, doors and hardware sub, millworkers, site landscaping and building landscaping, painters and signage, among others, I most enjoyed working with and learning about all the tiny pieces of daily integrity that it takes to get a building like this built. Especially since I was the only female on site for most of the project, it was a challenge, but in the best way.
This project highlights my ability to bring order to chaos and execute someone else’s vision to the highest standard. The schedule and budget were met and the project opened on time to great reviews.
project role : Construction Management, Project Management
year completed : 2016
budget : undisclosed
project was completed with Lettire Construction; contractor / Lightstone Group; developer / Goldstein Hill & West; Architect / sunline studio and curbedny; photography
This is one of my favorite clinical spaces. I loved the old charm of the existing building in prime DC location, just steps from the White House. This clinic, designed, managed and built for Field Trip Health was a challenge because of its narrow floor plate, only having windows at the front and back of the building, fairly low ceiling heights and tiny elevator!
I exposed the plaster ceilings, the old, textured brick demising walls and left the concrete beams exposed highlighting their history in the layers of paint clearly visible.
I adore texture, authentic details and surprising touches, and this project is a perfect blend of those design principles.
This clinic is approximately 3,000 square feet. The HVAC, electrical and fire sprinkler were redesigned and we reused the existing plumbing, plumbing fixtures and kitchen cabinets, being mindful of what could be reused while still meeting brand standards.
I divided up the space to meet the client’s program, which was a challenge with a floor plate of this shape, I was even able to fit in a small staff lounge.
This project showcases my love for original details, my respect of a building’s history and my ability to meet strict programing needs all at the same time.
project role: Architectural Design, Construction Management, Owner’s Representation, FF&E consultation, moss wall design and management, physical fit out of space
year completed: 2021
budget: $300,000
project completed with: Clune; contractor / Skylar Rote; Interior Design, FF&E / Field Trip Health; Owner, photography
After 16-tons of apples fell off of a tractor and crashed into a small barn in a tiny Dutch village, the owner and I worked closely together to create the requirements for the newly envisioned space. The original barn held a workshop with a small guest room and powder room above. The new program was designed to keep the workshop, add an office and greatly expand the guest room into a guest house with a kitchen, full bath and private street entry.
The footprint of the barn and the low brick walls remain while the height drastically changed to provide much more space above. Window and door locations were moved and added and a theme of clean lines and black on black cladding, roof and fascia was designed. The barn holds 14 solar panels, powering the entire property. Many of the materials from the original building were either reused on the new structure or used throughout the property for other building projects or as heating wood or sold. As little as possible was sent to the landfill.
The office received reclaimed wood shelving and the guest house was furnished with vintage and second-hand wares from throughout Europe. sunline designed and sourced all of the FF&E for the office and guest house.
sunline also worked closely with the owner to receive approvals from the Monument Committee and the permitting office since this is an historic property. The design was huge success as it stands out but also honors the historic nature of the location and property.
project role: Architectural Design, Construction Administration, FF&E, Interior Design
year completed: currently under construction, estimated completion 2023/2024
budget: Approximately €150,000
project completed with: Dijkwaard; contractor, photos by sunline studio, unless otherwise noted
This psychedelic therapy clinic, designed and built for Field Trip Health, is located in Atlanta, Georgia. The space is 3,800 sq ft and located in an historic stable. The stable is on the grounds of an old women’s prison, and the prisoners built the stables by hand in the early 1900’s. Their hard work is still visible in the beautiful uneven field stone, quarried from the site, as well as the handmade nature of the beams, columns and brick work. You can still see where the animals kept here chewed on the columns. It was of the utmost importance to me to preserve and highlight this strong heritage. I love the juxtaposition of the hand-worked nature against the clean lines of the new design, the two seamlessly blend to offer every visitor a calming yet interesting visual feast.
The windows are small in this space, so the design opened up the ceiling to 14’, exposing the wooden structure and imbuing the space with lightness and air. I intentionally left the original stone and brickwork uncovered, celebrating the history of the place.
The flow from entry to each and every room was highly considered. Goals of silence, privacy and sacredness were expertly blended with openness, invitation and visual pleasure.
It was a privilege to work on a building heavy with history, I honored the original details while simultaneously upgrading the space to be a modern healing center, balancing out some of the negative connotations a prison site can embody.
project role: Architectural Design, Construction Management, Owner’s Representation, FF&E consultation, moss wall design and management, physical fit out of space
year completed: 2021
budget: Approx. $300,000
project completed with: Tecton; contractor / Skylar Rote; Interior design, FF&E / Field Trip Health; Owner/Client, photography
40 East End Avenue in Manhattan’s Upper East Side is a luxury condominium building hosting 29 units over 18 stories along with private terraces and amenity spaces.
While working at Bravo Builders as the mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire safety Project Manager, I completed MEP coordination for the entire building, meeting all of the strict requirements for maintaining developer required head-heights and very specific mechanical unit placement. I also managed the elevator, marble/stone/tile, glass/glazing, wood flooring, door/hardware, paint, site work and landscaping subcontractors. Additionally, I handled all interfacing with public utilities and was successful in receiving permanent power, sewer and water within the first few months of construction.
This project highlights my ability to manage a large range of wildly different subcontractors in an efficient and successful manner. It also demonstrates my ability on the financial side as I handled the WIP report, ACR, contracts, negotiations and requisition process. I also contributed to writing of the GMP as well as monthly project reports.
project role : Construction Management, Project Management
year completed : 2019
budget : Approx. $60 million
project completed with Lightstone Group; developers / Bravo Builders; construction management / GKV; Architect / Deborah Berke Partners; interiors / Lightstone Group, renderings / photography by sunline studio, unless otherwise noted
Britta Beauty is a leading esthetician in whole, natural beauty. She trusted sunline with the build-out of her first space. This very quick tenant fit out on the second floor of an old industrial building in Soho, Manhattan, took one month start to finish - design, hiring subs, completing the work and moving in. Although the concept is very simple, this project was challenging because of the very specific design requirements, tight space and budget and even tighter schedule.
The project included new walls, electrical, plumbing and HVAC. Along with a clearly divided up space that functioned for very specific spa purposes - lobby, two treatment rooms, a quiet sitting area and a private staff space. Even with the tight space, we were able to fit in large amounts of storage and give the client and her employees a private space within the studio where they could step away for a moment and relax between clients.
This project highlights my ability to work and succeed under high pressure, a very limited schedule and a tight budget. The client went from an open space to moved in and accepting clients in one month! We loved working with another female small business owner and were thrilled with how quickly and well the space came together.
project role : Design Consultant, General Contractor
year completed : 2018
budget : Undisclosed
photos by sunline studio, unless otherwise noted
This five-story townhome in Brooklyn was gut renovated for a family of four. The original building was in serious disrepair, but the owner was keen to keep as many original details as possible. The design focus was on family integration as well as spaces for privacy. I worked closely with the client to craft spaces to gather and spaces to rest. The new kitchen overlooks the renovated backyard and the roof was rebuilt at a higher elevation with added windows to make the upper floor light and more usable. The basement was also dug out to allow for additional usable space for the children and a lock off apartment was added to the garden level.
I worked closely with the client who had a specific and distinct aesthetic that was nurtured throughout the process. I also completed the permit drawings, construction set and construction administration for the entire townhouse renovation.
This project highlights my ability (and desire!) to work closely with clients who know what they like, but just need a little guidance. The GC and I succeeded in accommodating all client requests, including the challenging space planning required to provide the desired functionality.
project role : Design & Design Consultation, Construction Documentation, Construction Administration
year completed : 2019
budget : Undisclosed
project completed with D.Gordon; contractor / Eric van den Brulle; photography, unless otherwise noted
After 20 years of use, the kitchen in this historic Dutch thatched-roof farmhouse from 1850 needed an update.
I worked closely with the owner to establish a completely new layout, one much more conducive to socializing and family life. The existing kitchen layout left a lot to be desired; poorly planned storage and a really inefficient use of space. The kitchen is quite large (approx. 500 square feet) but you would never know it with the poor layout.
This space in the house was originally the stable, you can see the chew marks on the existing beams from the farm animals. These old houses were built to work with the moisture, not against it, so the existing brick wall was exposed to allow for evaporation, it also adds a beautiful warmth to the space.
The new layout includes a much longer counter for massive amounts of storage and a huge island, which houses the stove and bar seating, as well as even more storage. The owner wanted the kitchen to honor the farmhouse but still be modern, I choose two different colors for the cabinets, a light cream and a dark green. The cabinet fronts are more traditional as is the farmhouse sink and the faucet and hardware have a contemporary bent. The open shelving adds to the charm while bringing in a modern feel. The vent hood is low profile and hidden between the existing ceiling joists. The limestone floor tiles sit atop a new concrete floor, cement top floor and new floor heating. All new appliances are built in and highly efficient.
The ceiling was redone to mimic wood floor boards, all the existing structural columns and beams were honored and kept exactly as is, highlighting the years of service they have given. New lighting throughout provides a beautiful nuance to the space, as does the seating nook, with custom built benches and antique table. The owner’s art and vintage wares grace the walls and shelves.
The laundry room and powder bathroom were also re-done. I had a great time making the powder room a little jewel box and custom building all the storage for maximum efficiency in the laundry room.
This project is a seamless combination of old and new, different styles, textures and colors. It is a wonderful kitchen to come home to.
project role: Architectural Design, Construction Administration, FF&E, Interior Design, Physical Build Out/GC
year completed: currently under construction, estimated completion 2024
budget: Approximately €35,000
project completed with: sunline studio; contractor, photos by sunline studio, unless otherwise noted
The Landmark Resort in Vail, Colorado is truly a landmark! This project was a massive overhaul of an existing building in dire need of a facelift and more square footage. 67,900 square feet were added to the project along with a complete re-cladding of the existing eight-story tower, a four-story addition (adding 16 new condominium units) over an existing three-story portion of townhomes, which were also re-clad. The project boasts a new, grand lobby space, renovated pool and deck and a new central clock tower which discretely houses new elevators.
The construction of the additions and renovations were strategically staged so the building could re-main occupied throughout the construction. Great care was taken to limit disturbance of the residents while all new cladding, railings, windows and roofs were added.
project role : Design, Construction Documentation, Project Management
year completed : 2011
budget : $25M
project was completed with Fritzen Pierce Architects; Design Architect / Epstein; Architect of Record, photography
The Amsterdam clinic, designed and built for Field Trip Health is a 6,500 square foot psychedelic therapy clinic overlooking the harbor and Amsterdam North, in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
This space consists of six treatment rooms, an integration/group therapy room, lobby and extensive staff offices. The ceilings were removed to visually open the space and create feelings of spirituality, airyness and space. Most treatment rooms look out over the water, allowing for a play of light reflecting off the water’s surface and into the rooms throughout the day. Multiple arched openings, a huge green wall, luxurious finishes and a quiet stillness imbue the space with a sacred quality. The design of the space was focused on tranquility, comfort, ease and luxury.
I completed the design, bid and buy out of the construction and construction management/ Owner’s Representation remotely. The process took approximately six months start to finish. I also spent three weeks on the ground in Amsterdam to assist with physically opening and fitting out the space. The project was a gut renovation which included new electrical, HVAC and plumbing throughout the space.
This project was a challenge as it was a 6 hour time difference, a different language and different building terms, standards and ways. It was very fun to work on an international project (that wasn’t Canadian :) ) and see if my communication and problem solving skills translated - they did! And the project was a huge success!
project role: Architectural design, construction management, Owner’s Representation, FF&E consultation, moss wall design and management, physical fit out of space
year completed: 2021
budget: $400,000
project completed with: Vega Projects; contractor / Skylar Rote; Interior Design, FF&E / Field Trip Health; Owner, photography
The Seattle clinic was designed and built for Field Trip Health, a leader in psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. The Seattle clinic is a 4,292 square foot psychedelic therapy clinic overlooking Lake Union and the Fremont neighborhood in Seattle, Washington.
This space consists of five treatment rooms, an integration lounge, a group therapy room, lobby and staff offices. The ceilings were removed to open up the space and create a feeling of airy openness. All treatment rooms look out over the lake allowing for the calming play of sunlight reflecting off the water and into the rooms throughout the day. Arched openings imbue the space with a sacred quality. The design of the space was focused on tranquility, comfort, ease and luxury. Custom moss walls were designed specifically for the space and the layout was designed for maximum use of the footprint as well as maximum privacy and flow.
The original structure of the building, site poured concrete, was intentionally exposed, representing the beauty of roughness, the tactile quality of healing and the respect for the bones of the building, and human. Every aspect of the space was designed to hold the client in a sacred embrace, allowing their healing journey to unfold with grace and reverence.
I completed the design, bid and buy out of the construction as well as construction management/ Owner’s Representation. I also spent time on the ground in Seattle as Owner’s Representative to manage construction and, later, to assist with physically opening and fitting out the space. The project was a gut renovation which included new electrical, HVAC and plumbing throughout the space.
project role: Architectural Design, construction management, Owner’s Representation, FF&E consultation, moss wall design and management, physical fit out of space
year completed: 2021
budget: $315,000
project completed with: Pulcon; contractor / Skylar Rote; Interior Design, FF&E / Field Trip Health; owner, photography
Vail Residence, completed with Fritzlen Pierce Architects, is a 7,300 square foot LEED Silver home. It was designed to honor the environment while simultaneously acting as a luxurious ski chalet for an active out of state family. The gut renovation of this home reuses the original siting and retaining walls, allowing for the mature vegetation and existing water routes to remain undisturbed. Local river stone, reclaimed wood siding and beams, as well as many recycled, reclaimed and handmade materials, such as the interior wood, game room bar and the bathroom tiles were used throughout the home.
This three-story house has a grand central stair, a large eat-in kitchen, large dining and living room, lofted office, primary bedroom, along with five other bedrooms, a total of nine bathrooms, games room, wine cellar, ski room, six fireplaces and a grotto housing a spa.
It was a very exciting and fun project to be a part of. The clients wanted the best and to honor the Earth - what a fantastic and inspiring combination!
project role : Design, Construction Documentation
year completed : 2010
budget : $1.5M
project was completed with Fritzen Pierce Architects; Architect / Sotheby's Int.; photography
The gut renovation of this 4-story + roof deck Brooklyn townhouse transformed it from a three-family apartment building into a single-family home. I focused the design on function and simplicity, opening up the space and making all floors usable and beautiful.
I led the design and detailing of the overall townhouse as well as managed and provided Owner’s Representation services for the kitchen, backyard and roof top landscaping designers.
This project highlights my design sense and my ability to listen to client needs, challenges and desires. This project was a study in facilitation - I worked very closely with the client leading them through the design and decision-making process and helping them feel confident making design decisions.
project role : Lead Design, Construction Documentation, Construction Administration, Project Management, Owner’s Representation
year completed : 2019
budget : Undisclosed
project completed with D. Gordon; contractor / Flos Gardens; landscaping / Eric van den Brulle; photography, unless otherwise noted