Nicole Mirabelli

Nicole J. Mirabelli is a registered architect specializing in the planning and design of complex animal shelter facilities. As the Animal Welfare Architect with FMD Architects and Shelter Planners of America, she works with communities across the country to create innovative, operationally effective, and humane environments for animals, staff, volunteers, and visitors. Nicole is passionate about designing spaces that directly improve animal welfare outcomes while supporting the people who dedicate their lives to caring for some of society's most vulnerable animals. Her work combines operational analysis, evidence-based design, and a deep understanding of the animal perspective to create facilities that are both highly functional and compassionate. In addition to her architectural practice, Nicole is a lifelong learner who continually advances her studies and is captivated by the intersection of design, law, and healthcare. This interdisciplinary perspective and systems-level thinking inform her holistic approach to problem-solving and facility planning. Nicole is a LEED Accredited Professional, WELL Accredited Professional, Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification (EDAC) holder, and Fear Free Certified Professional. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with and caring for her special-needs sanctuary dogs.