Daniela Crespo
Co Founder & Principal Project Lead
Venezuelan architect based in Chicago, Daniela brings a deep appreciation for the city’s architectural legacy and a passion for transforming its existing spaces through thoughtful, contemporary design. After relocating to Chicago, she immersed herself in the study of local architecture, drawn to the contrast between the city’s rich built environment and the need for fresh, modern perspectives.
Her early collaborations with her husband, a restaurant developer, sparked her expertise in designing hospitality spaces that respond to each project’s concept and flow. Over time, her curiosity about the construction process evolved into a parallel career as a general contractor, an experience that now informs every project she leads.
As Co-Founder and Principal Project Lead at Crespo & Br., Daniela bridges the gap between design and execution. She brings a rare blend of creative vision and technical precision, ensuring that every space is not only beautiful but functionally sound and impeccably built. Her leadership embodies the studio’s philosophy: design with integrity, build with intention
Vanessa Briceño
Co Founder & Principal Design Lead
Venezuelan architect and interior designer based in Chicago, Vanessa brings a multidisciplinary background that bridges architecture, interiors, and craftsmanship. Early in her career, she gained hands-on experience in the design and production of hospitality environments, which shaped her appreciation for how materials, form, and function come together to define a space.
Over time, she has developed a distinct design language that blends conceptual depth with expressive detail. Her work spans residential and commercial projects, with a particular focus on hospitality interiors that evoke emotion and tell a story through atmosphere, proportion, and flow.
As Co-Founder and Principal Design Lead at Crespo & Br., Vanessa guides the studio’s creative direction, translating ideas into spaces that feel intentional, refined, and human. Her approach reflects a deep belief that design is both an art and a craft, a dialogue between innovation, purpose, and beauty.
Elvis Araque
Project visualization lead
Venezuelan architect with a strong technical background, Elvis specializes in transforming design concepts into clear, buildable documents and visual representations. His expertise lies in developing precise drawings, renderings, and construction plans that bridge the gap between design and execution.
At Crespo & Br., Elvis leads the studio’s visualization and documentation efforts, ensuring that every project is accurately detailed and visually communicated. His methodical approach and deep understanding of architectural systems allow the design team to move efficiently from concept to construction.
Elvis’s work reflects a commitment to clarity, coordination, and technical excellence, core values that support the firm’s vision of delivering spaces that are as thoughtfully designed as they are well-built.
Ariana Rivero
Junior Project Designer
Architectural designer with a growing focus on interior and architectural integration, Ariana contributes to the design development, documentation, and visual communication of the studio’s projects. With a strong sense of curiosity and attention to detail, she approaches each phase of design as an opportunity to learn, refine, and bring ideas to life.
At Crespo & Br., Ariana supports the team in translating concepts into detailed plans, renderings, and graphic materials that communicate the studio’s vision with clarity and intent. Her collaborative spirit and adaptability make her an essential part of the firm’s creative process.
Ariana’s work reflects a thoughtful balance between creativity and precision qualities that continue to shape her development as a designer and strengthen the studio’s collective vision.