Our Team
Peter Niess - Principal
Born and raised in Maui, Peter spent his young adult summers on the construction sites, learning the trades of the construction and development industries. After diving into alternative options, he returned to architecture and the building industry, and graduated from ASU’s with a Degree in Urban Planning and a MA in Architecture. His more modern style, beachy island vibes and his experience from the southwest, brought a different level of design to the firm when he returned to work in Maui in 2007. Peters spends most days with his dog, the mascot of MAG, but loves to travel and catch the surf when he has some spare time.
Dennis Harmon - Project Architect
Dennis was born and raised on Maui and graduated from Lahainaluna High School in 1988 with honors. He attended University of Oregon, receiving his Bachelor’s of Architecture and a minor in Interior Design in 1994. Dennis was inspired to pursue architecture as a career his freshman year by a great professor and right out of college began working with GYA Architects, Inc. He continued to grow his experience with GYA Architects, Inc and Nishikawa Architects as well. In 2000, he established Harmon Architects, Inc. before finally joining MAG in April of 2017. Beyond architecture, Dennis has two daughters, Kaylee and Aliya with his wife Michelle and in his free time, enjoys coaching softball as President of the Maui Titans Fastpitch Organization.
Lori Yoshisato - Project Designer
Born and raised in Makawao, Lori started her career in graphic design at Maui Community College. She soon fell in love with triangles, physical design elements and began working in CAD, leading her to pursue structural, mechanical, and electrical drafting. With over 25 years of experience, Lori was drawn to the diversity that MAG presents and has traveled to South America on behalf of MAG partnership projects. Beyond her role as Project Designer, Loris enjoys sipping mate as a favorite pastime.
Marie Gaskin - Office Manager
A true Maui born and raised, Marie joined the firm when her Aunt Maile decided to retire. Since starting in 1998, she became the Office Manager, enjoying every minute in these twenty plus years along with the clients over the years. MAG feels like a family, Marie says, as most employees stay for a long time, “It’s nice to watch each other grow in respective fields and get to know each other’s spouses and children.” Her upcountry, north shore vibe brings a laid back warmth to the office environment, and her structured admin keeps the firm in order.
Nic Vander Lee - Architectural Engineering Consultant
Independent Consultant available for engineering concerns.
Margaret Sutrov - Architect
Maggie began working for MAG in the late 70's. She was drawn to the firm's enthusiasm for creativity in architecture, designing sculptures to live in. While raising a family she began working independently at home. Her relationship with MAG has stayed strong and her professional insight highly sought for numerous projects. As Maui evolved, so did the diversity of projects and styles, but with a collaborative ethic embracing everyone's input toward stronger design solutions.
James (Jim) Niess - O.G.
Arriving to Maui in the 70’s, Jim (James) Niess helped developed what is now the oldest architectural firm of the island. Well known for his restorations of many of Maui’s landmark buildings, Jim has been the president of the Maui Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, a retired member of the Maui County Cultural Resource Commission and a former trustee of the Maui Historical Society in addition to the long time President of MAG. He says his success with his company and career is “leading by example, you can’t push.”