
Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA
Upon receiving a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Virginia Tech, Helene followed a career path largely beyond the bounds of traditional architectural practice. She has worked in several not-for-profit settings such as The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, the American Institute of Architects, The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design, AIA Virginia, and the National Architectural Accrediting Board. This unique experience and exposure, in addition to her volunteer leadership positions, makes Helene a recognized expert in organizational transformation for design-related firms and small non-profits.
The Three Aspens, Ltd.
In early 2020, Helene launched a new business entity devoted to organizational transformation through change management, process innovation, leadership development, strategic planning, and ownership transition. The Three Aspens focuses on the culture of groups and entities, with a passion for elevating the vibrancy of design-related firms and small non-profits. Long interested in the ‘aspen analogy’ – the inter-connected nature of aspen trees – Helene uses this botanical model to inspire organizational vitality.
The Plum Studio, Ltd.
Helene has expanded the concept and reach of her long-standing architectural firm by moving toward a design + build approach, concentrated within her favored mountain settings of Virginia’s Shenandoah and Roanoke Valleys. Founded on her previous private practice ownership and prior construction experience, Helene enriches the daily lives of her clients through targeted, curated place/space making, with a dedication to remodeling projects and home additions.
The Fine·Nest Line
Since high school, Helene has enjoyed being a ‘maker’ – creating and selling her work as an artisan. Later in 2020, her enduring art and craft business will mature to include an enhanced line of retail products as well as a lifestyle blog … all with the intention of imparting more joy, beauty, connection, balance, and warmth to life.
For more information, contact: helene (at) theplumstudio.com