I’ve always wanted to pursue excellence in my work—but not in a stiff and joyless way. When I interviewed at Neumann Monson, I heard the words, “We take our work seriously without taking ourselves too seriously.” This mantra perfectly articulated everything I was looking for in an architecture firm.
In the studio, I’ve witnessed this mantra come to life. We understand that quality and calculated design can have a transformative impact on people and their environment. We are rigorous in how we pursue, develop, and execute a project. But at the end of the day, we understand the value of a good happy hour.
What's an untapped passion you'd like to devote more time to?
It sounds like a cliché, but I’d have to say traveling. I particularly enjoy a good road trip. It’s the best way to experience a setting.
What do you appreciate about the architect-client relationship?
Clients offer the canvas for design. Without clients, architects’ ideas would be confined to sketchbooks and model shops. The constraints, budgets, and dreams of a client bring the design process to life. They transform a pen stroke into a complex and functional wall assembly.
What makes Iowa unique?
Maybe we have a bit of a chip on our shoulders, but we are exceptionally proud of the place we call home. Iowa may not seem like the most appealing place on the surface, but once you dig, you’ll find the state has so much to offer. People are drawn to Iowa for all sorts of reasons—family, Midwestern values, the landscape. Once you’ve found your connection, you’ll want to proclaim loudly and proudly what makes our state so great.
Education
Iowa State University (BArch)
