Celebrating Leadership Growth: Kristen Mara and Justin Gleason Promoted to Project Directors

Intentional growth and leadership development continue to shape the future of +Detail. We are proud to announce the promotions of Kristen Mara, IIDA, CHID, WELL AP, and Justin Gleason, AIA, MBA, to Project Directors.

This promotion reflects their extraordinary talent and shared commitment to advancing our vision through thoughtful leadership, technical expertise, and genuine care for others.

Both Kristen and Justin’s personal values seamlessly align with values at +Detail. Their tenacity, progressiveness, and diligence elevate our work, team, and culture putting the “+” in +Detail every day.

Kristen Mara: Precision, Leadership, and Values in Action

Kristen is known throughout the office for her clarity, organization, and ability to keep complex projects moving forward with purpose. Her leadership has been vital in various projects, initiatives, and systems that support our work, most notably her role in developing Follio®, a valuable internal and external resource.

Beyond the office, Kristen’s influence extends into the broader design community. She was named the 2024 IIDA Ohio Kentucky Chapter Member of the Year and played a key leadership role in helping the IIDA OHKY Chapter earn the 2024 IIDA Chapter Changemaker Award through her work launching the Enrich Education Fund. This recognition reflects her deep commitment to mentorship, continuous learning, and creating long-term impact.

Kristen has a passion for helping organizations express their values through the spaces they inhabit. She approaches design strategically and people-centered, supporting individuals, their purpose, and optimizing performance.

Alongside her professional growth, Kristen embraces life beyond work. She has welcomed her second child and is deeply committed to maintaining a full, balanced home life. Whether she’s focusing on physical wellbeing by training before sunrise or spending intentional time with her family, she leads with both discipline and balance, setting a powerful example for those around her.

Justin Gleason: Creative Problem-Solving and Optimized Care

Known affectionately as one of the office’s favorite comedians, Justin brings both humor and depth to his leadership. He has a unique talent for tackling some of +Detail’s most complex behavioral health projects and turning challenges into clear, creative, and client-focused solutions.

Justin excels at designing environments that serve patients, caregivers, and leadership teams. He consistently delivers innovative outcomes that balance care, safety, and operational excellence. His work reflects a deep understanding of how design can support dignity, functionality, and trust. He continues to serve as a trusted Owner’s Representative on several projects where he is the vital link between clients, consultants and project teams. His ability to understand client priorities and keep projects moving forward with clarity and purpose.

His leadership has been recognized beyond the firm with the Outstanding New Professional Award from the Kent State University Alumni Association. He continues to lead on the volleyball court as a coach at St. Edward High School, investing in the growth and success of younger generations to come.

At +Detail, Justin is committed to elevating the quality of our work while strengthening collaboration among team members. His commitment transcends life in the office as he recently celebrated a major personal life milestone, getting married. Whether on the volleyball court, at home, or at work, Justin’s unwavering devotion promises a bright future at +Detail.

Investing in People, Leading with Intention

Staying committed to creating an environment where people can expand their skills, lead with confidence, and continue evolving in their roles, allows us to better serve our clients and communities.

By providing flexibility, resources, and a culture that values both excellence and well-being, we create an environment where individuals and teams can thrive.

Success is defined not only by what we build, but by:

  • the strength of our leadership,

  • the depth of our client relationships, and

  • the lasting impact we make in our communities.

Kristen and Justin’s promotions represent growth and the kind of leadership we are proud to cultivate from within.

Please join us in congratulating them on this well-deserved next chapter.