effortlessdesign

About Us

A lot of people like to tease us, because design is hard work. However the more you develop rigorous know-how the project becomes effortless. We believe the construction industry is vital to the local economy and the goal is to produce projects that are good investments and create jobs. Sustainability is vital to our future. While practicing design at the community-level, we work with institutions and organizations to strengthen the community and bring about new projects. These include:

Boston Architectural College - Presently serving on the Practice Faculty. We have hired interns, taught workshops and curated exhibits Shelter & Beyond and Spirit Matters at the BAC.
University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, MA - Charter member of the Southeastern Massachusetts Council on Sustainability and collaborator with Office of Campus and Community Sustainability.
South End Business Association - Board member since 2007 working with other New Bedford small business owners to network, buy local, and physically improve the South End business district.
Theosophical Society in Boston - A place to meditate on group work including serving on the board since 2005. Provided renovations to meditation hall and insulating attic with recycled material. see photos

Carol Fisher, president, EIT

I have been practicing design at various scales for nearly twenty years. Much of my interest revolves around the ability of design to improve construction of various types. Often today construction proceeds without planning and design, and the result is generally a poor investment with missed opportunity that does not hold up overtime. In contrast the nineteenth century buildings around us were built by master builders understanding plan books with experienced craftsmen. Today the plan books have been replaced by a design education that can synthesize more systems and requirements, and this is what every property owner should want when undertaking a construction project. The basis of the process is engaged collaboration with the owners' needs and wishes, combined with creative curiosity. This is the motivation of my work.

James Melo, associate vice-president

James lives in the South End of New Bedford, and has been employed by effortlessdesign since 2009. Recently named a officer of the business, James has an extensive background as a carpenter & drywall hanger in commercial markets. He has numerous contacts within New Bedford's community of trades, and is a very cooperative and likable guy!

Our Past and Future

It's 2011 and a new website! In 2010, we experienced many changes and required an update. effortlessdesign, inc was founded in 2001 by Antonio Pina and Carol Fisher, and in 2010 Antonio Pina, AIA left the business. We wish Tony well, and his influence over the years shaped this business.

We have worked to expand our knowledge-base during the recession. We are interested in hearing about your project and being considered for the design/build of light-construction projects. Add us to your design/construction team.

We continue to partner with Thompson-Farland, Inc in New Bedford, and long-time associate LeBrasseur Engineering. Carol Fisher has a EIT (engineer in training) Certification, is a licensed Home Improvement Contractor (HIC# 1340158) and has completed EPA Repair, Renovation, and Painting Training.