OPERA is a boutique design firm which specializes in integrating the theoretical and the practical in modern design projects. Founded in 2006, OPERA develops unique solutions for each project through a process of research, development, and design. OPERA focuses on creating designs of the future: critical to the ever-changing conditions of climate, culture, technology, and environment.

Gregory Marx De Peña

Principal and Founder

As the principal designer of OPERA, Gregory Marx De Peña, leads with a passion for rigorous research and analysis on the cutting edge of the profession. Mr. De Peña studied vernacular architecture in the Dominican Republic and earned a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona. His thesis design for the primitive hut of the 21st century has been internationally published for applying fluid dynamics and NASA wind study models to architecture. He has experience with residential and commercial architecture while working with Ronchetti Design and Line & Space where he contributed his expertise to sustainable, environmentally conscious structures prior to founding OPERA. He has also served on the CCDC Advisory Board.

Kenneth L. Butts A.I.A.

Architect Collaborator

Following service as an Air Cadet during WWII, Kenn graduated from the University of Oregon in 1955 with a Bachelor’s of Architecture. With nearly 45 years of licensure under his belt, having held licenses in all 50 States and the District of Columbia [26 current licenses], and as the architect of more than 2500 retail stores across the US, Kenn’s client list reads like a Fortune 500 list of major brands and retailers. From Starbucks, to WetSeal, Burger King to Crabtree & Evelyn, GNC and Trader Joe’s, Kenn’s experience is an invaluable asset at OPERA.

Sarah Bianca Birkbeck

Project Manager

Sarah Bianca Birkbeck brings an enthusiasm for systems and the reconciliation of macro and micro scales. Her Master’s thesis, Terminal was an examination of motion through statics, and an insurrection of the airport as a public threshold through the historical evolution of the airport typology. In addition to urban planning, she brings experience in retail, laboratory and residential design from Manhattan to Jordan. With formal studies in Canada, the US, Denmark, England and Italy in addition to travels throughout Europe as well as North and Central America, Sarah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Design and Architectural History from NYU and a Master’s in Architecture from the NewSchool of Architecture and Design in San Diego.

Christian Santini

Design Intern

Diametric Harmonies best describes Christian Santini’s approach to design. He joins Opera fresh from l’Universidad Iberoamericana in Tijuana, Mexico with a bachelor’s in architecture. Christian is always testing and experimenting with forms and space and how they can coexist. His designs juxtapose seemingly chaotic elements, bringing them together in multifaceted compositions. He has residential experience while working for Estudio Santander’s where he collaborated as part of the design team for the AIA Award winning entry, Las Flores Residence. He brings a fresh eye to design, pushing it to new limits.

Michael Rocco Sablone

Digital Creative Director

Michael Rocco Sablone is OPERA’s digital creative adivisor. He is the digital heart and soul of OPERA. Currently he and Anthony Ronga own and operate Theta Interactive, Inc., a web solutions, developement, and ideas company. Theta and OPERA have collaborated on many web, video, architecture, and modeling projects over the years. OPERA calls on Michael and Anthony at Theta Interactive for any website, software aplications, or digital projects.