Building Success: Meet the Team at the Heart of RVA Architecture

For the past 30 years, the Firm has built a collective that has consistently delivered for our clients.

The Leadership Team

At RVA Architecture, we believe that architecture is not just about designing spaces—it’s about creating environments that uplift, heal, and enrich the lives of patients, caregivers, and medical staff. With a focused commitment to client satisfaction and consistent design excellence, our team of seasoned professionals brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every project we undertake.

Rick Vitabile AIA

Founder and President

Rick is RVA Architecture’s Founder and President and brings 45 years of healthcare architectural expertise to the Greater Philadelphia Firm. A Penn State graduate and licensed Architect, he merges classical principles with practical designs. His portfolio includes projects for Select Medical Corporation, hospital systems, and assisted living companies. Rick prioritizes a client-centric strategy for every project undertaken.

Nick Tyson

Senior Project Designer

Nick, an experienced designer and project manager, earned his Bachelor of Architecture Degree at Carnegie Mellon University, where he found his passion for functional and inspiring design. With 30 years of experience, Nick excels in balancing technical requirements with client needs, particularly in healthcare projects such as outpatient clinics, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and medical offices.

Joe LaGuardia

Senior Project Designer

Joe brings experience from multiple national architectural firms. Specializing in healthcare, senior living, and pharma, He excels in crafting exceptional spaces. His proficiency extends to working with Fortune 500 clients and on LEED-certified projects. A graduate of Thomas Jefferson University (formerly Philadelphia University’s School of Architecture), Joe is dedicated to meeting client needs while advancing RVA Architecture’s best practices.

Steph Britten

Senior Project Manager

With 20+ years of experience, Steph leads RVA’s project management team, ensuring seamless execution and a dedicated open communication strategy. Her diverse skill set includes project, client, construction phase services, and interior design direction. Steph excels in overseeing projects for national corporations and organizations, focusing on client needs, budgets, and deadlines. She is a Penn State graduate with a degree in Graphic Design and Photography, with a minor in Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies.

Lisa Sheehan RA

Project Architect

With over 38 years of experience, Lisa serves as Project Architect at RVA Architecture. She brings a diverse background in healthcare, commercial, and residential projects. Before joining the Firm, she co-owned a practice for 17 years, overseeing projects for prominent healthcare groups and systems. Lisa’s expertise spans various healthcare disciplines, reflecting her dedication to delivering tailored architectural solutions with precision and quality.

Meet the Talent Steering RVA's Projects

In addition to our esteemed leadership team, RVA boasts an extensive network of professionals dedicated to delivering excellence in every aspect of architectural design and project management. Our team includes skilled architects, innovative interior designers, meticulous project managers, and dedicated support staff who collaborate seamlessly to bring our clients’ visions to life. Our team, with its diverse range of expertise and shared commitment to client satisfaction, tirelessly ensures that it executes every project with precision, creativity, and attention to detail. Whether designing healthcare spaces, managing complex construction projects, or providing unparalleled client support, our team is here to exceed expectations and deliver exceptional results.