Our awesome team includes licensed architects, designers, and support staff. With a diversity of backgrounds and expertise, we are pleased to have assembled for our clients a well-balanced collaborative crew. Beyond our credentials, we’re a dynamic team made up of some pretty rad individuals. Get to know us a little better and feel free to contact us any time — we'd love to answer your architecture questions!
Having worked on hundreds of projects in 35 states, Matt knows a thing or two about problem solving. Since obtaining his master’s degree in Architecture from Montana State University, he has fine-tuned his leadership skills managing design teams throughout the U.S. He brings these strengths to the Cole Architects team, demonstrating how to transform raw ideas and ambitious objectives into feasible structures that are simultaneously functional and elegant. Additionally, he sees a project’s constraints as opportunities to “move beyond predictable design solutions.” And while Matt enjoys a good challenge, he also believes the simplest solution is usually the best one.
Through extensive travel, Matt has gained appreciation for the composition and aesthetic appeal of structures he’s seen around the world. This perspective informs his 27 years as an architect, and it guides our processes at Cole. One of his most rewarding projects was a university library renovation at a small liberal arts college in Colorado — for which his team won a national AIA design award for the expansion of a 40-year-old building and modernization of its systems and façade.
When Matt isn’t working or traveling, he’s typically on the trails (mountain biking) or the slopes (skiing). He might also be immersed in his latest obscure research project. If you should see him scooting around town on his Triumph Bobber, be sure to say hello.
Learn more about Matt — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
My overall focus is simplicity in design with the goal to avoid an overwhelming and unneeded number of visual elements. I always attempt to get across one strong idea instead of incorporating several — which requires having discipline to edit down any ideas that are not needed. Every successful concept will have an overriding story which will help center the entire design process to a single focus allowing all team members a solid wall to bounce the ideas from.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Modern, minimal, clean, edgy, industrial.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
I believe design should be purposeful and continue to be relevant over time — which leads one to simplicity. The underlying effort should be to have fun with a project and continue to push the limits of what is traditional and accepted.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I competed in two Division I collegiate sports (football and track) while attending architectural school.
In Kimberly’s 16 years as an architect, she has not slowed down — but rather, continues to be fascinated by all aspects of the design process. Architecture merges her favorite subjects, art, and science, and she continues to be inspired to research and sketch ideas for what she wants to create. Since she was offered the opportunity to study architecture at Portland Community College (for free) at age 16, she jumped at the chance and hasn’t looked back. Kimberly then received her Master of Architecture and Urban Planning from Andrews University. Her studies abroad — which primarily involved sketching and journaling to analyze the historic built environments and place-making — took Kimberly to Prague, Czech Republic; Vienna, Austria; and Italy (Rome, Vicenza, and Venice, Italy).
Today, Kimberly takes pride in transforming buildings (rather than razing them), and in this context, greatly enjoyed her work on the AAA Bend Service Center, as well as on Belle Fiore Winery, which she considers an unusual, ornate, and interesting subject.
Outside of work, Kimberly finds ways to stay involved in her community, like participating in the Architects in Schools program. She also spends her leisure time with her daughter, engaging in outdoor activities, theater and opera, and all kinds of art.
Learn more about Kimberly — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
Architecture, first and foremost, is for people. And the best architecture is functional so people enjoy using it, and beautiful so people care about preserving it. It balances art and science to be truly worthy of the resources we use to make it.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Balance, proportion, respect, sustainability.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
Every architectural style in history has merit and there are good and bad versions of each. I go into every project open-minded and eager to learn about the people and activities the building will house.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I worked at a veterinary hospital for seven years.
Ian is living proof that Legos aren’t just for four year olds. He credits these colorful building blocks with sparking his interest in architecture, and for contributing to his playful yet pragmatic approach. After graduating from the University of Oregon, Ian worked in the macro and micro aspects of urban planning and architecture and developed a special interest in sustainable and regenerative design. A true champion of the Northwest, he hopes to use his skills to add to Boise’s reputation as one of the nation’s most livable cities.
Outside of the office, Ian is happiest in the Idaho outdoors with his wife, son, and two Labradoodles, Charley and Ruby. (We also suspect he has a massive Lego collection he’s not telling us about.)
Learn more about Ian — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
I want to create places that have a positive impact on their surroundings — not just for the end user, but those walking, biking, and driving by. I want to design places that will last, will have minimal impact on the environment, and are aesthetically pleasing.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Intentional and sustainable.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
I think it differs on every project and with every client. I know what I like; sometimes just being able to express your opinion is the best that you can do.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I used to have dreadlocks…
From an early age, Tim was both an observer and an investigator of the world. He was interested in the inner workings of things (leading to the destruction of several toys), but also appreciated the outer beauty of his surroundings. His father suggested architecture as a potential fit, and he hasn’t looked back since. After high school and through college, Tim expanded his knowledge working in the construction industry and since graduating from the University of Idaho with a Master of Architecture degree he has gained experience in commercial, public works, residential, light industrial, and educational design. Today, he finds satisfaction in seeing his ideas “become part of a built reality that improves the quality of life for others.”
When he’s not at the office, Tim enjoys spending time with his wife and three kids, exploring the outdoors on his motorcycle, camping and fishing, and starting new projects around the house (even though he still hasn’t finished the last several he started).
Learn more about Tim — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
Design is solving problems, beautifully. Design should always leave things better than they were before and should never be more about the designer than the client.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Intelligent, efficient, simple, and subtle.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
I am always looking to reduce and simplify. I try to put myself in the shoes of the end user and imagine how they will exist in and interact with the spaces I am designing. I also try to put myself in the shoes of the contractors who will end up building the project and look for ways to make things more efficient for them.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I have been known to design and build my own furniture.
Jennifer always knew she wanted to be an architect, but her love of the outdoors prompted an interest in sustainable design. She graduated with her Masters of Architecture from the University of Tennessee in 2014, and for her master’s thesis, generated design guidelines that help promote carbon-neutral performance within a district or neighborhood — which showed promising potential for energy surpluses to be available in some situations. In other words, she’s already pioneering just the kind of design thinking that’s needed in our industry now and in the future.
Jennifer is a fan of pretty much any outdoor activity — whether it’s trail running, mountain biking, hiking, camping, or backpacking. But she enjoys these excursions the most when alongside her husband and their dog, Eddie.
Learn more about Jennifer — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
An architect should be constantly learning and evolving – always open to new ideas, methods, and technology.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Minimalist and functional.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
To create spaces and use materials in a simple, functional way and look for thoughtful solutions with given restrictions, limitations, or requirements.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I used to be a trip leader for wilderness and rock climbing trips.
Growing up in South America, Ian was aware that many of his friends did not have access to safe, comfortable, and equitable places to live and work. Ever since he has been determined to help people create these types of spaces, where people are delighted to spend their time. He believes that lives are enriched by having more “empathetic buildings.”
Through architecture, Ian enjoys the opportunity to create spaces that are thoughtful, meaningful, and responsive. He is passionate about helping create affordable housing and connecting people to these resources. Among Ian’s favorite projects in his career is the adaptive reuse of the 1943 Prineville High School – which transformed the old school building into affordable housing and community space. Over the last few years, Ian has served on several boards addressing housing affordability and livability in Central Oregon.
Ian studied architecture at Kansas State University, with stints in Denmark and Norway, and later received his master’s degree in construction management from the University of Washington. With a diverse background in the AEC industry, Ian is well versed in multi-family housing, senior living, all types of commercial construction, and project management.
When Ian is not working, he does not slow down. He is an accomplished pianist, practices jiu-jitsu, enjoys reading and cooking, and treks the Cascade Mountains.
Learn more about Ian — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
Good design is empathetic to the life the user is living.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Orderly, textured responses to context.
How does this aesthetic inform your work?
I love designing environments that integrate with and elevate people’s everyday lives.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I love teaching economics to teenagers.
Since he was able to hold a hammer, John has been practicing architecture — a worthwhile skill in his then-rapidly-developing hometown of Phoenix, Arizona. Growing up, he spent most weekends helping with construction projects (his father was a first-generation, Czech-descent architecture grad of the Illinois Institute of Technology and designed their family’s unique flat-roofed, glass-walled, modernist home). He recounts one of his earliest memories: his dad taking him to the construction site of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price House in Paradise Valley and saying, “This is architecture.” Such an upbringing cultivated in John a desire to design, build, and create — anything from bookshelves and room additions to entire houses.
After graduating from St. John’s College in Santa Fe as a Southwestern Scholar, he enrolled as a graduate student at the University of New Mexico’s Architecture Department, where he met his future wife, Kristina. They continued their studies with the University of Washington’s Master of Architecture program and later served as joint Fulbright Scholars in Rome, Italy. The couple relocated to Seattle, then emigrated to Australia with their then-six-month-old daughter, where John became an associate director of a large architectural firm and served as co-coordinator of the Building Conservation Programme at the University of Sydney. They eventually returned to the U.S. in 1986 to be closer to their extended families. To date, some of John’s favorite projects include Sydney’s Quarantine Station conservation plan; the Honolulu Zoo African Savanna buildings; AmeriTitle buildings throughout Oregon and Idaho; Tower Theatre in Bend, Oregon; St. Mary’s Chapel in Powell Butte, Oregon; and the Cove Aquatic Center at Sunriver Resort.
In his leisure time, John can be found modifying the urban garden spaces around his family’s home, adjusting rockeries, and taking in the wabi-sabi of his environment. For the better part of 45 years, he has kept a daily practice of qi gong, zazen, and Rosary. He and his wife also enjoy hiking and cross-country skiing in the Cascades, and traveling.
Learn more about John — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
The First Law of Design Relativity: for every correct design solution there is an equal and opposite correct design solution. There may be fifty or more correct design solutions and it is the design professional’s job to help the client (who is also inherently a creative person) select the solution that they (the client) feel best about. Also, everyone is born with a creative impulse and some have been blessed with an inability to not create stuff. So just get off your high horse about being “creative,” since everyone else is, too.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
It’s OK to create beautiful things (assuming OK is one word, and it’s OK to not count the adverb!).
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
I’m not afraid to use the word “beautiful” and I encourage colleagues, clients, and friends to use it, too.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I worked as a waiter in Seehotel Königsbad in Mondsee, Austria in 1968 and was in Vienna when the Soviet tanks rolled into Prague, crushing the Prague Spring; the Viennese thought they would not stop at the Czech border.
Allison developed a passion for design at an early age. As a child growing up in Moscow, Idaho, she spent many hours with her dad in his workshop, tinkering with scrap wood or helping him with projects. She also loved to draw and especially enjoyed creating blueprints for dream homes, schools, and cities. After obtaining her undergraduate degree in architecture from the University of Idaho, Allison attended a study-abroad program in Italy and eventually landed a gig as a teacher’s assistant. After returning stateside, she attended the University of Idaho Urban Design Center for her graduate degree.
Allison is pursuing her architecture license and has become a trusted member of the COLE team. When she's not focused on a work project, she enjoys hiking, reading, painting, playing volleyball, and cooking.
Learn more about Allison — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
My goal as an architect is to never be complacent and always be improving — not only through actively learning and working hard, but through the daily thrill of solving challenging design problems.
Describe your design aesthetic in five words or less.
Simple, functional, warm, intriguing.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
My work often focuses on light and comfort in spaces through the integration and manipulation of materials, form, lighting, and furniture.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I'm the second youngest of six sisters.
Since establishing Cole Architects in 1995, Stan hasn’t spent much time sitting still. Over his 40 years in architecture, he has attained licensure in 13 states — and his designs have won many local and regional awards. He was the past president of the Idaho Central Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, a past board member of the Idaho's architectural licensing board, and also contributes to civic organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County, Urban Land Institute, Ronald McDonald House, and BOMA.
Stan’s motivation is both creative — whether it’s through art, photography, engineering, or technology — and philanthropic. Architecture allows him to integrate these elements into a fulfilling profession. For us and for our clients, the feeling is mutual: Stan’s insight, diversity of experience, and altruistic mindset make him a tremendous asset to our team.
As Cole Architects continues to grow, Stan has been able to ease into semi-retirement. He remains an integral part of our firm, but now devotes more attention to his creative pursuits: sketching and playing his guitar, bass, or piano (he’s a self-proclaimed “wannabe rock star”). He also enjoys traveling, hiking, biking, and skiing.
Learn more about Stan — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
Design and creativity require a combination of learning from our clients and the integration of solutions that uniquely address their needs and wants.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Creative, modern, sustainable, and unique.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
Form follows function — the building has to be functional first and foremost. The aesthetic follows form and is framed by art, technology, and creativity.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I am an identical twin. Scary, but there are two of us… ?
Kiran grew up in Kathmandu, city of temples, loving the sculptural and spatial qualities of traditional Indian architecture. When she was in 7th grade, as the family was designing and building a new home, she experienced the design process close up. She helped her parents make many design decisions and loved being at the construction site. As an adult, Kiran wanted to create something of value that would bring people together — this inspired her to pursue architecture.
Kiran loves to travel and experience new places. After completing high school in Nepal, she decided to go abroad to see what the rest of world had to offer. She completed her BA in Architecture from University of New Mexico, learning lot about the unique Southwest architecture style as well as a brief study abroad in Oslo, Norway.
When not working, you can find Kiran on the road (driving—which she really loves). She also enjoys poetry, music, yoga, and a good cup of tea.
Learn more about Kiran — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
My design philosophy is all about space and people. I try to find a balance where both space created and people occupying can thrive together. I love to keep my design minimal and functional.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Modest, Minimal, Sustainable, Responsive, Influential
How does this aesthetic inform your work?
I believe in creating simple yet influential design. I believe that buildings and spaces can speak to people and inspire them. I strive to meet that with my design aesthetics. After all, it’s all for people.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I have broken my left arm three times as a kid. I was a restless kid, trying on new adventures.
Since he was young, Philip always loved sketching out floor plans. In high school, he decided to take an AutoCAD class through a technical college and, in that class, he designed a complete set of plans for his “dream house” (back then) and went on field trips to see and experience some of the finest homes in Sun Valley. This ignited his desire to make architecture his career. Philip’s deep fascination with architectural drawings has remained with him, which is evident in is his ongoing BIM modeling experience and talent. To this day, he often finds himself thumbing through floor plans of random buildings just to pass the time.
Philip is proud to be an Idaho Vandal. He gained his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Idaho attending both the Moscow and Boise campuses.
In his free time, Philip is usually busy with his wife and three kids going to baseball games and gymnastic classes or working on endless home projects and taking care of the garden. When time allows, Philip enjoys quiet evenings at home with his wife re-watching episodes of The Office (never gets old). And, if there is a Chicago Cubs game on, he’ll be watching!!
Learn more about Philip — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
I am a puzzle builder. I love working through complex problems and coming to a solution. To complete the puzzle, you have to dissect the problem first. Through the design process, I like to connect with and get to know the end user. I imagine I’m the one occupying the building and what would work and not work for me. It is important for me to work through the design solution with my teammates and consider their perspectives so there isn’t one stone left unturned.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Practical, Simple, Efficient, Creative
How does this aesthetic inform your work?
Designs need to have a purpose and align with the client’s expectations. Without the foundation of a good program or a well thought out process, the design becomes lost and incomplete. With a solid foundation, creativity can flourish.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I once played a pickup game of basketball with members from an Arena Football team in an NBA arena.
Kristi has been in the construction bookkeeping field for 25 years, with the last few years focusing on architecture. Her interest in architecture sparked when she sat down and designed her family’s home in 2006. She found it very rewarding to see the home that she designed come to life. Now, working in the architecture field, she is still enthralled watching the progression of a project.
Kristi loves that she gets to see the beautiful snow-capped Cascade Mountains every day. She is a (rare) native Bend Oregonian and has seen a lot of change and growth in this beautiful area. One of Kristi’s favorite things is “capturing the moment” through pictures and painting.
Kristi is consistently involved in giving back to her community. She volunteers at local elementary schools helping young children learn to read, and is often a foster mom for cats, dogs, and other pets. At one time, she had 9 cats (5 fosters), 3 dogs, and 4 chickens (2 fosters) living in her home!
Outside of work and volunteering, Kristi loves spending time with her college-aged son and daughter and her two Border Collies, Duke and Daisie. (Yep, she’s down to only two animals… until she fosters again!)
Since the fifth grade, Giovanni knew he wanted to be an architect. Intrigued by three-dimensional puzzles, and meticulous about detail — he found that architecture enabled him to problem-solve spaces and better the lives of the individuals for whom he’d be designing. After graduating from the University of Idaho with his Master of Architecture, Giovanni studied abroad, working for the university’s architectural research program, and eventually presenting his findings at an international conference in Lisbon, Portugal.
Giovanni’s favorite aspect of his work is the ability to transform thoughts and ideas into material objects and environments. To date, his favorite project involved working with local residents of the Nez Perce Tribe in Lapwai, Idaho — where he learned about their vision for the town and discovered how design can profoundly impact a community.
In his free time, Giovanni enjoys both playing and watching soccer with his friends, and mountain biking during the summer.
Learn more about Giovanni — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
To always use light and personal interaction of spaces in order to develop the overall atmosphere.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Linear, industrial, ornate, site-specific.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
Technical, organized, large use of section diagrams for spatial relationships, and connection to light and nature.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I did soccer and track and field for two years in the NCAA before pursuing architecture at the University of Idaho.
From the time she was young, Alex could constantly be found drawing floor plans for her dream home. Growing up she loved observing her parents’ home renovation projects and she later helped her mom in flipping and renovating homes. This grew into a passion. Her eyes still light up every time she sees a construction site!
Initially an engineering student at Boise State, Alex realized architecture was her true aspiration. She decided to pack up her bags and attend the University of Tennessee, where she received a bachelor’s degree in Architecture with a minor in Interior Architecture. She did a semester abroad at Aalto University in Helsinki Finland where she fell in love with Scandinavian architecture.
Alex loves hiking, swimming, skiing, traveling, and attending as many concerts as possible — anytime she can be outside, that’s where you will find her. But after a long day, don’t be surprised to find Alex enjoying downtime at home with her cat Zippity.
Learn more about Alex — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
My overall design philosophy is to create a space that leaves a positive impact on the community as a whole. I strive for simple, clean design that functions well and stands the test of time.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Simple, Modern, Chic, Industrial, Rustic.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
I try to create functional and thoughtful spaces that are rooted in simplicity. I believe that there’s beauty in conversations between design aesthetics. When they merge together something magical happens and that’s what I continue to work towards.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I used to live on a dairy and had a wide variety of strange pets from a rabbit all the way to a llama.
Sarah’s interest in architecture sparked from watching her dad hand-drawing building plans on his drafting table at their home in Argentina. She was always fascinated how these drawings turned into real buildings and loved to visit their construction sites and seeing new spaces come to life. When it came time to choose her field of study, architecture was the obvious choice. Sarah received her bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the University of Utah. Since then, she has applied her architectural education to marketing and design. Her goals are to provide current and future clients the best experience possible and share Cole Architects’ people, company, and process in the clearest way.
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys exploring the beautiful city of Boise, watching a great movie, and checking off her travel bucket list — usually accompanied by her husband and son.
Learn more about Sarah — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
I believe design should be clean and minimal without being boring. Places where people live, work, and spend their time should connect to the outdoors as much as possible through natural light and views of the surroundings.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Clean, simple, approachable, vibrant.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
I look to find simple solutions that communicate function and intent clearly. I apply these principles both to architecture and other design work. I hope to make it easy for people to experience space and to learn and become informed.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I was “Student of the Year in Mathematics” in 8th grade, which was the first year I lived in the United States. One of my most treasured awards.
Ben’s architectural training began on his family farm, where he learned from a young age that problems could be solved with lumber and nails. They were always in need of more space, better infrastructure, and buildings that would address the needs of animals and equipment, so, by ten years old, Ben had helped build several structures on the farm. This experience inspired him to pursue a career designing and building spaces that would help others solve their own problems. Ben completed his Bachelor of Science in Architecture at Portland State University in 2015, and in the coming years, ran a design consulting company, drafted for a structural engineer, and worked in architectural offices rendering and drafting commercial buildings.
In his leisure time, Ben enjoys a myriad of activities: hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, DIY home remodeling, cross country skiing, landscape photography, gardening, woodworking, and welding.
Learn more about Ben — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
I want to create spaces that encourage human interaction with buildings using authentic materials to tell a story.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Simple, rustic, and nature-focused.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
I like to create unique spaces that meet the needs of the client to create opportunities for meaningful interactions with architecture and nature through the use of natural light and authentic materials.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
Even though I am an Eagle Scout, I cannot tie a knot to save my life.
While Legos and Lincoln Logs were her earliest introduction to architecture, Ashley’s curiosity and creative bent cemented her place in the field. She attended Montana State University, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Design (with a Photography Minor) and Master of Architecture. Ashley then studied in Italy and traveled throughout Europe, which inspired her work on Rome 2092, a planning project for the city’s future.
Ashley is intrigued by the emotion behind — and psychological impact of — great architecture. She also finds excitement knowing that, by way of her drawings, she’ll be creating spaces for people to inhabit — believing the process to be “art come to life.”
In her free time, Ashley satiates her curiosity by traveling abroad (to date, she has visited 15 countries), reading, watching films, and exploring the outdoors with her camera in hand.
Learn more about Ashley — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
I heard once that architects — above all else — are problem seekers. I wish to create poetic solutions to these problems we seek, which result in beautiful, functional, and emotionally charged spaces that communicate story and leave a positive impact on their environment.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Sensitive, delicate, responsive, sustainable, considerate.
How does that aesthetic inform your work?
I create beautiful spaces through light and shadow (much like my photography) that has an over-arching concept — design that tells story. I strive to create spaces that respond sensitively to their environments and users. What does the land need? What do the users need? What is the plan for the future? Answering questions like these leads the design in differing ways depending on the collected knowledge.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I got locked into two separate gardens in Europe — Versailles and Park Güell. Somehow, I am here to tell the tale if you’re curious.
Amy’s interest in design and building became manifest at a young age. As a child, she was most likely to be found building forts and structures for mice and fairies, or creating custom dollhouses for her toys. Amy began taking drafting classes and designing small projects in high school; she even had summer stints working at a local hardware store and her city’s civil engineering department — all while helping her dad with repair projects around the house.
Amy studied architecture at the University of Detroit for two years, then transferred to the University of Colorado where she obtained her undergraduate degree in environmental design and skiing. After working for a year in an architectural firm, she acquired her Master of Architecture from the University of Oregon. One of her favorite projects to work on has been Powell’s bookstore in Portland.
Outside of work, you’ll usually find Amy outdoors — walking her dogs in the forest, doing yoga, riding her mountain bike, or snowboarding, rafting, camping, and practicing archery with her husband and daughters. When it’s time to return indoors, she also enjoys knitting, baking, drawing, and painting.
Learn more about Amy — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
Form and Function. I believe in creating spaces that feel good/peaceful and that serve the needs of the people and animals inhabiting the space. And in building for the long term — eco-friendly and low maintenance!
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Thoughtful, harmonious, alive, innate.
How does this aesthetic inform your work?
Architecture is very interrelated with its setting and users; making this relationship run smoothly and pleasantly with a natural flow and a pleasing bond is always my goal.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I have visited all the US states, except Alaska and North Dakota.
Henry’s architectural career path began in a setting one might not expect — a restaurant. He always had an interest in art and design, but it wasn’t until he helped design and build his own restaurant with his wife, an architect, that Henry realized his passion for architecture. The design process and witnessing people interact with the new space in unexpected ways was an experience he calls “the most challenging yet rewarding” of his life. He returned to college to obtain his master’s in architecture at the University of Illinois-Chicago.
Henry enjoys collaborating with his peers and seeing their varying life experiences inform the creative process. He believes a project’s most difficult challenges can be transformed into unique, often esoteric moments, which can become the most interesting aspects of a built space.
Henry spends his leisure time entertaining his young daughters, playing tennis, and restoring his 1979 Boston Whaler (fishing boat). He is also an avid musician and plays the guitar, drums, and piano. In his younger years, Henry toured with his band in Chicago and the Midwest, and now he is enjoying his most recent exploration — Boise’s vibrant music scene.
Learn more about Henry — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
I feel good design should reflect the complexity of modern life at every stage. There is as much aesthetic value in a museum as there is a strip mall and every era of architecture has its own unique strength. We should access the totality our lived experience in hopes to building truly evocative and humane spaces.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Simple, imperfect, and unexpected.
How does this aesthetic inform your work?
Designing a space always comes down to a few crucial decisions which don't have easy answers. Finding unorthodox solutions can make for the high point of a project. As much as we rely on technology and precision in our professions, it’s the unexpected, human moments that can make a building really connect with people.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
My wife and I were Colorado River guides for many years before moving to Chicago. The Utah desert is our happy place!
Margaret was inspired to go into finance because of her love for math. Growing up, she competed with fellow students on getting the best grades in math class. When it came time to choose a career, she considered becoming a neurologist before deciding finance was her passion. Margaret received a bachelor’s degree in Finance at Boise State University and then went on to obtain an MBA-Finance master’s degree at Southern Utah University.
“I love how I can use numbers to develop different strategies. I also enjoy problem solving and finding more efficient ways of managing finances.”
Margaret loves to snowboard, ice-skate, jet-ski, and spend time at the shooting range. She also enjoys hanging out with family and friends and trying out new activities. She recently discovered archery, and never thought it would be so much fun!
Khiseth’s path towards a career in architecture was paved with wooden toy blocks. His father worked in a furniture store during Khiseth’s childhood and would create blocks for Khiseth made from recycled scraps of furniture. Using the blocks, Khiseth began planning and building elaborate cities that spanned his family’s apartment.
After high school graduation, Khiseth used the funds he’d saved working a dishwashing gig to backpack throughout Europe. He briefly attended the Art Institute of Boston, then received his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Oregon while also minoring in metalsmithing and jewelry design.
Today, Khiseth is interested in architecture's role in fostering sustainable and equitable growth, and enjoys working with different clients, specialists, and communities. “I love that architecture sits on the confluence of art, science, politics, and economics,” he says. Having been raised in what he describes as “a low-income family with substandard housing,” Khiseth finds purpose in designing small, affordable residences. “I have experienced the effects of a gentrifying community and my work adding to the stock of affordable housing is particularly important to me.”
Outside of work, Khiseth spends his time cooking, tending to his small forest of indoor plants, reading science-fiction and fantasy, hiking, making and performing electronic music, and creating art.
Learn more about Khiseth — in his own words.
What is your design philosophy?
I take a holistic approach to design that balances the small moments that make up a user's experience with the broader context in which the building is situated.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Narrative-driven, eccentric, minimalism.
How does this aesthetic inform your work?
Using selective ornamentation, design can create and drive narrative. I enjoy harnessing expressive architectural elements to tell stories about how a building responds to its client, climate, and community.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I have over 50 plants in my bedroom alone.
You could say Claire was born (or at least raised) to be an architect. She hails from a family of creatives, who helped foster her early love for design. As a child, Claire could think in 3D and began building models and acquiring design experience in everything from woodcarving to fashion. She has always been compelled by the psychological impacts of good design, specifically how it makes people feel. Claire is also intrigued by how architecture is everywhere, yet still goes unnoticed to the untrained eye. “I feel like I’m a part of a secret club that knows about the incorrect uses of flooring tiles,” she says.
Claire recently completed her BA in Interior Architecture, and will be heading to Rome, Italy in fall 2022 to begin a year of fulfillment architecture courses, complete a minor in history preservation, and pursue her master’s in architecture.
In her free time, Claire can be found painting, crocheting, watching films, making stained glass, or discovering any number of new creative outlets. She also enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, traveling, skateboarding, and biking.
Learn more about Claire — in her own words.
What is your design philosophy?
I strongly believe that the best design is an effective design. Buildings have more than one life in them, so it is important to make informed design decisions so that the current life of the building is preserved for the future community or building owners.
In five words or less, describe your design aesthetic.
Lively, unique, sustainable, and responsive.
How does this aesthetic inform your work?
The communication between the client and design is just as important as the conversation between space and environment. I have found that looking at the surrounding context can help inform smaller design choices but putting focus on the relationship between the people and nature will help almost anything.
Share a little-known fact about yourself.
I have been a part of several sports including boxing, fencing, and aerial silks.
We are excited to be recognized as one of the Top Ten Places to Work in Idaho for 2020, 2021, and 2022!
COLE Architects has an amazing team and we couldn't be prouder!