Suggestions
Dena Prastos
Focusing on resiliency, sustainability, and progressive responses to climate change at the water's edge.
Dena Prastos, AIA, is the founder and CEO of Indigo River, a women-owned transdisciplinary design firm specializing in progressive waterfront architecture, resiliency, and climate adaptation solutions.124 She is a licensed architect, civil engineer, futurist, and climate adaptation expert with over 12 years of experience.14
Born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, Dena developed a deep appreciation for nature and mankind's ability to create infrastructure in challenging conditions.12 This background inspired her passion for sustainability and resiliency, particularly in waterfront and flood-prone areas.3
Dena's educational background includes:
- Bachelor of Architecture from New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Graduate degree in Civil Engineering from New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Completion of Harvard Business School's "Leading Professional Service Firms" Executive Education program12
Her professional credentials include:
- Registered Architect in NY, NJ & CT
- AIA (American Institute of Architects)
- NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards)
- WEDG (Waterfront Edge Design Guidelines)
- LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional)5
Throughout her career, Dena has led projects worldwide in heavy civil construction, marine engineering, and waterfront architecture.12 She founded Indigo River to focus on waterfront consulting, specializing in resiliency, sustainability, and progressive responses to sea level rise.24
Dena resides in the New York metro area with her husband, Nick, where they enjoy restoring their 160-year-old riverfront home, playing tennis, and sailing the Hudson.12




