Architecture and design firm HLW International named Christopher Townsend and Erin Vasold as Co-Studio Directors for their New Jersey office in Madison. Headquartered in New York City with a footprint across the US and in London, HLW has appointed the pair as part of its commitment to collaborative leadership and regional stewardship. Vasold and Townsend bring decades of experience, a dedication to design excellence, and a history of strong client relationships to the new assignment.
“Chris and Erin have both been integral to shaping the identity of our New Jersey office — its culture, its standards, and its reputation in the marketplace,” noted Ed Shim, AIA, NCARB, Managing Partner at HLW.
Christopher Townsend, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB, has more than 25 years of experience in architecture. He is regarded for his client-first approach and highly focused management style. At HLW, he has proven himself as a project leader across commercial, retail, and research sectors, delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget. Townsend has been with the firm since 2011, and his portfolio includes projects for Haleon, Eisai, Everest, and Kering Americas. He received his undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan and completed his master’s in architecture at Columbia University.
Erin Vasold, AIA, LEED AP, NCIDQ, has been with HLW for 8 years and is known for her creative versatility, design rigor, and operational precision. With more than 20 years of industry experience, she has overseen projects from concept through completion across commercial, financial, workplace, and life sciences sectors, with clients including Avantor, Everest, Mars Wrigley, and Prudential Financial. Vasold received her Bachelor’s degree in architecture from Roger Williams University.
“They have played a key role in fostering creativity, curiosity, and teamwork across all their projects,” continued Shim. “They will bring that same energy and commitment to guiding the next chapter of growth for the New Jersey team, and I look forward to working closely with them as we continue to strengthen HLW’s presence in this region.”
The pair will work together to lead the Madison office, fostering mentorship and professional growth within the team, while maximizing their combined experience and client relationships to drive future business growth. Working alongside Shim, Vasold and Townsend will continue to advance HLW’s leadership position in New Jersey, strengthening the firm’s regional partnerships and forging new and expanded opportunities in the state.
