WHO ARE WE
PRE EMPT is the culmination of bringing together two diverse fields; criminology and architecture. Criminology is the study of crime; how and why it happens and the impact it has on society. Architecture is a dynamic play of textures, colors, rhythm, light, shadow, material and form. It is a creative profession with the added complexity of designing a space for use in the future. But how do you predict the future? At PRE EMPT, this is only one of the questions we try to address. We look to criminology theories and all areas of design to help answer “how can we design out crime”.
PRE EMPT looks at the built environment through the lens of both a designer and a theorist offering a critical analysis of the project. A thorough assessment of the project sheds light on areas that are potentially susceptible to criminal acts and offers a solution to mitigate criminal activity. At PRE EMPT we believe it is important to begin the dialogue of designing spaces to enhance everyone’s lives and offer them a safe and enjoyable space to use.
KRISTI MERDLER, MANAGING PARTNER
Ms. Merdler holds a BA in Criminology, a Masters in Architecture and a CPD (CPTED Professional Designation certificate). For the last 8 years she has gained significant professional experience in architecture working on both small custom residential projects and multi-million dollar commercial projects. Some of her experience includes k-12 educational design, financial institutions, commercial office buildings and FEMA funded projects. She has experience in code review / compliance, site analysis, developing construction documents, coordinating with engineers and project management.
Over the last year Ms. Merdler has been working on her CPD. This certificate brings together the fields of architecture, urban design, landscape architecture and law enforcement. By implementing CPTED (Crime Prevention Though Environmental Design) strategies, Ms. Merdler is able to look at all areas of design and address codes, zoning and planning issues while noting the possible areas of criminal activity.
