NewSchool Alum Promoted to Principal at San Diego Architecture and Design Firm

Sam Beard (M.Arch ‘12), a San Diego-based architect and proud alum of NewSchool of Architecture & Design, has been promoted to Principal at Delawie. 

Beard’s work at Delawie began shortly after graduating from NewSchool in 2012. After gaining valuable experience at the company and beyond, he returned to Delawie in 2021 and quickly rose through the ranks—earning the title of Associate in 2022. His recent promotion to Principal underscores his growing influence within the firm and San Diego’s architecture community. 

Throughout his career, Beard has played a pivotal role in several high-profile projects that have helped shape the built environment of Southern California. His portfolio includes the vibrant Moxy Hotel in Downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, the expansion of the iconic Pechanga Resort Casino, and the Qualcomm BA Tower—projects that exemplify both design innovation and technical execution. 

Most recently, Beard served as Project Manager for the Bower Coronado, a 39-room boutique hotel in the heart of Coronado. Beard oversaw all phases of development, from concept to construction, ensuring the hotel meets the firm’s standards for quality, functionality, and architectural character. 

As Beard steps into his new role as Principal, he is poised to shape not only the future of Delawie but also the next generation of landmark projects across the region. His career trajectory is a powerful example of how NewSchool alumni are making meaningful contributions to the applied field of architecture.