Transforming environments. Elevating lives. Inspiring possibilities.
Born from the merger of two forward-thinking architecture firms, LAYER Architecture and DxDempsey, Layer X is a new studio rooted in strategy, creativity, technical excellence and the belief that design should deliver value and measurable results.
The firm’s three partners, Michele Dempsey, Jeffrey Lew, and Wolfram Arendt, share a professional history that began over 25 years ago when they first worked together at the renowned architecture firm Bohlin Cywinski Jackson. Reuniting now under one practice, they bring complementary strengths, aligned values and a collective vision for what architecture can achieve when it’s both purposeful and beautifully executed.
Michele Dempsey
AIA, LEED AP
PRINCIPAL
Michele received her Master of Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania and her Bachelor of Arts in Engineering from Lafayette College. Michele has a breadth of experience that is augmented by an in-depth understanding of Architecture, Planning, Interior Design and Graphic Design.
Michele is a LEED Accredited Professional and is committed to a practice of thoughtful, sustainable architecture, which includes figuring out how to minimize its implications on the environment. She is also adept at collaborating with individual clients as well as large, diverse client groups.
Since founding DxDempsey, now Layer X, in 2003, Michele has been recognized by the Northeast Pennsylvania Business Journal as one of the “Top 20 Professionals Under 40” and as one of the “Top 25 Women in Business.” Layer X Architecture has been recognized as “Small Business of the Year” and awarded for “Green Practices” by the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce.
Michele is very active in her community and serves on several local boards. In 2007 and 2013, she originated and helped organize “The Office Convention” and “The Office Wrap Party,” respectively, which brought the cast, along with thousands of fans, of the NBC show “The Office” to Scranton to celebrate the City and the show. Michele is very active in her community and is a founding member of Friends of Lackawanna, a grass-roots non-profit committed to protecting the health and safety of the local community, as well as the regional image and the environment.
Michele is co-host of the podcast, “Spark Me,” which explores the twists, turns, fresh starts and next chapters in women’s lives through candid conversations, humor, and heart. She also loves to travel, hike, and write. Always one to challenge herself, she has completed four marathons and holds a second degree black belt in Tang Soo Do, therefore, she is not afraid of anything…except turbulence…and skinny jeans.
AIA, LEED AP, CSI, CDT
PRINCIPAL
Driven by a passion for elegant design, sustainability, and the art of craftsmanship, Jeffrey Lew has led a wide range of prestigious academic, commercial, cultural, and residential projects over the past 30 years. His organizational and technical expertise make him exceptionally suited to the challenges of complex planning and building initiatives.
Jeffrey excels at seamlessly integrating client needs with design, planning, and construction efforts to achieve a unified vision. A CSI member and CDT-certified professional, he brings deep expertise in quality assurance, technical detailing and specification writing. He has also served on the Center for Architecture and the AIA Philadelphia Board of Directors.
He is also a trained furniture designer and craftsman, and this attention to detail and materials is apparent in the care he gives to each project.
AIA, LEED AP BD+C
PRINCIPAL
Wolfram’s energy and inclusive style infuse the design and construction processes with an enthusiasm and efficiency that make each project a pleasure. Originally working in the construction sector, Wolfram served as a project leader on a variety of projects.
He has over 25 years of broad experience in commercial, university, higher education, and cultural projects for a range of project types and circumstances. He has a thorough knowledge of design, technical management, and construction as well as an active interest in sustainable design.
Committed to addressing environmental issues, Wolfram has served as the chair for the GreenFaith Committee at his local church, serves on his neighborhood zoning committee, and participates with architecture student design reviews.
Senior Design Associate
Corey is a native of Williamsport, PA and studied architecture at Marywood University. His interest in the visual arts fed his desire to create “inhabited sculpture” in order to provoke and inspire. Corey has a passion for design and constantly strives to bring insight and originality into his work. His talent, attention to detail and professionalism are assets to every project.
In his free time, Corey participates in “The Pop Up Studio,” which creates temporary architectural installations that engages the public in a unique and participatory manner. Unable to sit still, he likes to stay active with hobbies such as wake boarding, skiing, and the visual arts. His love of the architectural profession has touched all aspects of his life, including naming his adorable Dalmatian Van der Rohe after the one and only Mies Van der Rohe!
Dom Maiorano
Design Associate
Dom is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Architecture at Drexel University through the accelerated 2+4 program, which combines four years of part-time study with full-time professional work experience, along with a minor in Construction Management. His interest in design began through hands-on experience in fine woodcraft, where he developed a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and material integrity.
Dom is particularly drawn to how thoughtful, well-executed design can positively influence human emotion and experience. He strives to create spaces that balance functionality and feeling, bringing creativity, precision, and attention to detail to every project.
Outside of architecture, Dom enjoys running, exercising, and cooking. His handmade pasta and breaded chicken parmesan have earned a reputation among friends as “to die for.”
Administrative Manager
Kim specializes in solving complex bookkeeping problems and streamlining administrative processes to keep the firm running smoothly.
Kim enjoys researching business topics. In her spare time she enjoys keeping up with pop culture, watching television and movies, and traveling with her family. She is an avid lifelong learner who is always working to improve her knowledge.