Lori Ferriss

ABOUT LORI

Lori believes that the built environment shapes the world socially, culturally, and environmentally, and that design firms play a critical role in creating positive change at every scale. Her work as a consultant supports leading design firms in aligning their practices with that responsibility, helping them translate design excellence into lasting impact through how they operate, lead, and deliver work. 

As a licensed architect and professional engineer, Lori brings a practice‑grounded perspective to firm strategy shaped by deep technical training, award‑winning design work, and leadership in sustainability. She is known for designing processes and ways of working that reflect each firm’s culture, values, and ambitions, helping firms evolve intentionally rather than reactively. Her approach is grounded in close listening, practical insight, and a deep respect for the realities of practice. 

At CMG, Lori advises firms on project management, organizational structure, and strategic planning, with particular attention to how sustainability is integrated into everyday decision-making. She helps firms build future‑focused practices by aligning values, operations, and delivery models.  

A core focus of Lori’s work is supporting rising leaders as they move from leading projects to leading firms. She works with designers and technical leaders to strengthen their ability to lead teams, influence culture, and contribute meaningfully to the profession while advancing their firms’ goals. 

Lori brings a global, industry-wide lens to her client work through long-standing leadership roles with the American Institute of Architects, Climate Heritage Network, and the International Council of Monuments and Sites. She serves as an AIA Strategic Councilor, is a past chair of the AIA Committee on the Environment and is actively engaged in global built environment climate action efforts, helping firms understand where the profession is headed—and how to engage thoughtfully and credibly in shaping its future. 

Prior to joining CMG, Lori was a principal and practice area leader at Boston-based higher education firm Goody Clancy, where she also served as the firm’s first Director of Sustainability. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a Master of Engineering in High-Performance Structures from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.