Christa Plaza

Christa Plaza has established herself and the Essenza Architecture team as recreation and civic facility design leaders. Her 26-year-long career began at Arizona State University, where she obtained her degree in Architecture. During this time, Christa served as head lifeguard at ASU, which has transpired into establishing her firm as a leader designing aquatic and fitness centers, competitive and recreational pools, and spas and wellness facilities. Christa understands the best practices for circulation, patron and staff experience, and integration of building systems. Christa and the Essenza team also designed other project types, including public works facilities, commercial office buildings, retail, tenant finish, and schools.

With a unique ability to translate client goals into a built facility, Christa leads owners and design teams in producing new facilities, additions, renovations, needs assessments, and master plans. Maintaining focus on client connection and good communication has been the primary focus of many successful projects. Christa believes that architectural design should enhance the experience of people living and working in the facility. She listens closely to clients during the building program development and creates a design influenced by how staff and patrons interact with the space. She creates sustainable spaces surpassing expectations by selecting products and developing meticulous detail. Christa's additional strengths include follow-through in the construction observation phase, where quality control is of the utmost importance.