SHP Leading Design reflects on productive 2008

Norwood-based SHP Leading Design (SHP) is celebrating several major accomplishments achieved during 2008.

Early this year, SHP was recognized for the redesign of its 22,000-square-foot office space, a state-of-the-art environment that has achieved LEED Gold certification.

The firm received three awards for the work, including Cincinnati Magazine's Interior Design Award and both an Interior Design Award and Local Favorite Award from the Cincinnati chapter of American Institute of Architects Committee on the Environment.

In September, SHP and Cincinnati Public Schools celebrated the dedication of the new 75,000-square-foot Pleasant Ridge Montessori School, Ohio's first LEED-registered school.

SHP incorporated many sustainable elements into the design, including solar panels, orientation to natural light sources, and raised access flooring that contains the building's mechanicals.

These elements are expected to minimize the school's energy usage by 35 percent in the first year alone.

And for its work in professional development, SHP received the 2008-2011 Intern Development Program Firm Award.

In preparation for a big 2009, SHP's board has named Lauren Della Bella as the firm's president, effective January 1.

"I'm grateful to our diligent staff, as it is their hard work and dedication that helped make 2008 such a successful year for SHP," Della Bella says.  "Despite the economic challenges, we are looking forward to making even greater strides in 2009."

Gerry Hammond, a 40-year veteran of SHP, will step down as president and CEO to become chairman of the board.

"With the new leadership in 2009, SHP can look forward to many more accomplishments," Hammond says.  "I'm extremely confident in Lauren and the abilities of the leadership team and know they will continue to build the firm's legacy for success and growth by connecting people and communities."

Writer: Kevin LeMaster
Source: Rachel Miller, HSR Business to Business LLC
Illustration from SHP website