The process involves learning about the values, goals, aspirations, and challenges of every stakeholder and weaving these varied threads into a compelling story.
Growing up in small-town Nebraska, my passion for architecture took time to develop. High school industrial arts classes like wood shop, metals, and drafting, as well as art and math, piqued my interest, and when it came time to choose a career path, architecture seemed like the ideal fit—combining analytical thinking with art and making.
Initially, I found the field much different from my early drafting experience, but two mentors broadened my perspective. As they opened my eyes to the basics of architecture—order, sequence, scale, and rhythm—and the power of storytelling, I began to appreciate its emotive power.
I believe the best architecture springs from a compelling diagram that remains a clear, legible idea in the final built project. Design advances through iteration. Constant editing that responds to and strengthens the overall diagram leads to details that service the big picture.
What do you appreciate about the architect-client relationship?
Design requires patience, trust, and teamwork. The process involves learning about the values, goals, aspirations, and challenges of every stakeholder and weaving these varied threads into a compelling story. Meeting early and often to get feedback is vital to meeting the client’s needs. This constant back and forth—this push and pull—makes for the most rewarding work.
What do you do in your spare time?
I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands, so I try to take at least a week off every year to dig into a personal design and construction project. Usually, that time off translates into many additional nights and weekends trying to finish what I called a “small project.”
What’s your favorite place in Iowa?
My family and I love spending time outdoors. Maquoketa Caves and Codfish Hollow are some of our favorite places in the state, but we also enjoy our adventures at Ledges, Purple Martin Lake, and Tower Rock.
Education
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (MArch)
Contact
jbaker@neumannmonson.com
