Washington, D.C. — February 2025 – Bitarchitects hosted a strategic retreat the last week of January 2025, bringing together the company’s advisory board for a series of impactful meetings, site visits, and strategic planning sessions. Led by Founder and Managing Partner Ms. Terry Bitar, the retreat was designed to reflect on the firm’s achievements of 2024 and outline its vision for 2025, in addition to highlighting Bitarchitects’ commitment to innovation, growth, and collaboration across diverse fields, while exploring key partnerships and project opportunities.
As part of its expanding vision, Bitarchitects engaged with key diplomatic figures during the retreat. On Tuesday, January 27th, 2025, Ms. Bitar, along with advisory board members C. Sills, C. Ingersoll, and Col. O’Neil, met with the Ambassador Zahran of Egypt to the United States. The discussion focused on potential collaboration in architectural and engineering projects, particularly in the areas of sustainable development. The meeting underscored Bitarchitects’ commitment to fostering partnerships and leveraging its expertise to support development initiatives on all scales.
On Friday January 31st, 2025, Ms. Bitar, alongside the advisory board— Col. O’Neil, Col. Littig, C. Sills, and B. Peiris—met with Armenia’s Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Makunts. The meeting centered around cultural heritage, investment opportunities, and potential collaboration with Bitarchitects. Ambassador Makunts, a highly respected leader with a background in cultural diplomacy and governance, shared her vision for the future of Armenia’s development. The hour-and-a-half discussion was an inspiring exchange of ideas, with the potential for Bitarchitects to play a role in various investment initiatives and projects in Armenia.
Ms. Bitar reflected on the experience: “Meeting with Ambassador Makunts was a tremendous positive boost. Her dedication to progress and her keen interest in bringing Armenians together made our discussion even more meaningful. We look forward to exploring opportunities for collaboration in the near future.”
Following the ambassador visit, Ms. Bitar and the advisory board arrived at Bitarchitects’ signature project on Neal Street. The construction site tour offered the board a firsthand look at the transformative project, which is turning a single-family townhouse into a spacious two-unit flat. The remodeled addition includes underpinning the basement to increase ceiling height and creating a separate two-bedroom apartment, while the upper floors feature a modern three-bedroom and a den duplex with contemporary design elements, a large kitchen, and an outdoor deck overlooking a landscaped backyard. This transformation, particularly the conversion into a two-unit flat, significantly increased the property’s square footage and, consequently, its market value, resulting in a higher return on investment for the client.
Ms. Bitar guided her advisory board through the construction site, emphasizing the innovative design solutions and means of egress. “The Neal Street project is a testament to the client’s vision and the team’s skillful execution,” said Col. Jack O’Neil. “The project demonstrates how carefully considered architectural designs can unlock new possibilities for expansion and utilization. Witnessing the realization of these designs is a truly exciting experience.”
The day included a tour of the U.S. Capitol, where the group held a meeting with various committees. The discussions revolved around upcoming infrastructure projects and how Bitarchitects can contribute to the evolving landscape of transportation and design in Washington, D.C. The group also took a commemorative photo on the inaugural stairs, symbolizing the firm’s commitment to progress and leadership in the architectural and engineering world.
The day was concluded with a celebratory dinner at Café Milano in Washington, D.C. Bitarchitects Team designed the event, adding their special touch to create a memorable experience for the advisors. Ms. Bitar and the advisory board toasted Bitarchitects’ achievements in 2024 and the promising year ahead. The evening was filled with camaraderie, and discussions about future projects, reflecting the strong bonds within the team.
Saturday February 1st, 2025, began with a meeting for the advisory board. The session acknowledged their contributions to Bitarchitects’ success in 2024 and their role in shaping the company’s future. “Bitarchitects’ commitment to innovation extends beyond aesthetics and functionality,” said C. Sills. “They’re pushing the boundaries of sustainable design, exploring new technologies and materials to create truly eco-friendly and impactful projects. It’s exciting to be a part of that journey.”
The advisory board participated in a strategy and planning session focused on setting goals for 2025. The discussion covered expanding Bitarchitects’ portfolio, forging new partnerships, and identifying emerging opportunities in both residential and commercial sectors. The board’s insights and recommendations will shape the firm’s roadmap for the year, ensuring continued excellence in design and execution.
“Bitarchitects’ performance in 2024 is a testament to the team’s dedication and the effectiveness of their strategic planning,” observed Ms. Ingersoll. “The firm’s commitment to innovation and excellence provides a solid foundation for their compelling plans for 2025.”
Bitarchitects’ 2025 advisory retreat set the stage for another year of growth, innovation, and impactful projects. With a focus on collaboration, community, and cutting-edge design, we remain dedicated to delivering architectural excellence across all its endeavors.