Our Team
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Our Team *
ASPEN THORSTENSON
Founder | Architect
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
Partner | Architect
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
Design Associate | Visualization
Mitch brings a steady hand and fresh perspective to CREATE d+d Architects as our Project Manager. A proud graduate of South Dakota State University, Mitch combines a strong design background with sharp organizational skills to keep projects running seamlessly from concept through completion.
At CREATE, he plays a key role in facilitating design development, coordinating with clients and consultants, and ensuring every detail moves forward on schedule. Mitch thrives on clear communication and problem-solving, helping our boutique firm deliver the personalized, hands-on experience we’re known for.
mitch@create-designdevelop.com
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