Donald brings a rich blend of local heritage and extensive architectural experience to APD. Raised in the Finger Lakes Region, his family has deep roots in Farmington, with generations of farm ownership, including the well-known Herman Holtz farm on Holtz Road. After graduating from Fairport High School, Don furthered his education at Syracuse University.

From starting his career with the Rochester City School District’s Design Department, Donald expanded his expertise in urban residential projects, working in Connecticut and the New York City metro area. In 1987, he relocated to Los Angeles, where he collaborated on high-profile projects with Wylie Carter Architects, serving clients such as Cher and Larry Hagman. His career also includes impactful roles at HLW International and Gensler.

In 2006, Donald founded his own firm, focusing on residential, mixed-use, and multifamily developments. With a strong background in urban infill projects, he has a keen understanding of budget considerations and the complexities of working with government agencies, stakeholders, and financial institutions.

Donald is thrilled to join the APD team, where he looks forward to applying his deep expertise to help builders and developers address the urgent need for affordable, accessible housing in the Finger Lakes region and beyond.

Outside of work, Donald enjoys golf, baking bread, basketball pick-up games, making lists of birds that visit his feeders, and hanging out with his wife of 30 years. He also says he will always bleed Dodger Blue.