Our Team

*

Our Team *

ASPEN THORSTENSON

Architect | Founder

Registrations: SD | ND | NE | IA

Aspen is a licensed architect and the founder of CREATE d+d Architects, bringing deep expertise in both architectural design and real estate development. Formerly the Managing Director of Design for a major commercial and multifamily development firm, she blends strategic vision with practical execution. Her approach balances the goals of developers, communities, and design teams to ensure aligned, successful outcomes. Aspen specializes in guiding projects through early concept, entitlement, and code strategy, with a sharp focus on feasibility and design excellence.
Expertise:

  • Development-Focused Design: Multifamily, Mixed-Use, and Commercial

  • Code Analysis & Zoning Strategy

  • Entitlements & Conceptual Design Leadership

aspen@create-designdevelop.com

JUSTIN OLESON

Architect | Partner

Registrations: SD | WY | MN

Justin brings nearly two decades of experience designing and delivering architectural projects in Sioux Falls and the surrounding region. As a licensed architect in South Dakota and Wyoming, and the current AIA SD president-elect, he has earned a reputation for reliability, design integrity, and technical rigor. His portfolio includes hundreds of successful projects, and he excels in leading projects from concept through construction with precision and care.
Expertise:

  • Full-Service Architectural Design & Documentation

  • Design-Bid-Build Delivery

  • Technical Specifications & Detailing

  • Construction Administration & Client Advocacy

justin@create-designdevelop.com

SHANEE MIKKELSON

Project Manager | Interior Designer

Shanee is an experienced project manager and interior designer with a sharp eye for spatial storytelling and functionality. She supports CREATE’s projects from concept through coordination, integrating interior design that aligns with project goals and enhances user experience. Shanee brings creative direction, project oversight, and a collaborative spirit to every engagement—bridging the gap between architecture, interiors, and branding.
Expertise:

  • Interior Design for Hospitality, Commercial & Residential Projects

  • Project Management & Client Coordination

  • Finish Selections, FF&E, and Material Sourcing

  • Brand & Identity Integration into Interior Environments

shanee@create-designdevelop.com

ELIZABETH BICHLER

Design Associate | Visualization

Elizabeth is a design associate, where she supports projects through detailed renderings, design development, and production documentation. With a strong background in architectural graphics and digital modeling, she helps translate conceptual ideas into clear, compelling visuals that guide decision-making for clients, stakeholders, and project teams. Elizabeth is also learning to prepare construction documents and assisting with coordination between disciplines to ensure design intent is fully realized.

Expertise:

  • 3D Renderings & Visualization

  • Schematic Design & Design Development Support

  • Construction Document Production

  • Digital Modeling & Graphic Communication