LUX Spring 2018

38 1802LU12 K&A Architecture: Redefining OurWorld; One Building at a Time For over 17 years, K&A Architecture, Inc. has been involved in the building industry throughout the United States, working on a wide range of innovative projects. We caught up with Founders, Donald and Suzanne Kiley to learn more about the firm and explore the secrets behind the phenomenal success it has achieved. Founded in 2001, K&A has been privileged to work with many different clients locally, regionally, and nationally. The growth of the firm is a testament to true partnerships. Having met in architecture school over 30 years ago, Donald and Suzanne knew their connection was going to flourish not only personally, but also professionally. From that time, their goal has always been to own and operate their own firm. In the midst of starting their own family, Donald and Suzanne founded K&A Architecture in December of 200l. Suzanne states, “starting a family is demanding, but deciding to start our own firm was equally demanding on our lives, as it was our second family”. From the start, they have always treated K&A as a family. Each staff member of the firm, along with their own family, is part of the K&A family. This family oriented approach, is what has lead K&A to grow into a thriving company that has been privileged to work with some of the finest clients in the world. Each client is treated like a new member of the family. It is the trust of their clients that has enabled K&A to expand their reach, thus being able to influence architecture and the lives of others across the country. Drawing on these opportunities, K&A is best characterized by its founding philosophy “Redefining Our World, One Building at a Time”. This philosophy places the firm in a strong position to provide services which not only affect building construction, but establish how its clients operate their businesses. Architecture is no longer just the built environment, it must address all aspects of business development including financing, technology, and the ever-changing range of consumer needs. In order to assist its clients in this rapidly changing arena, K&A prides itself on possessing thorough knowledge of financing, zoning and building codes, industry standards, technologies, building materials and consumer opinion. Following this knowledge-based approach, the team are able to guide clients through the maze of issues and formulate an excellent design solution that will serve their needs, minimize their expenses and maximize their profits. Donald discusses how the firm applies this philosophy to ensure excellence for its clients. “In order to be true to our philosophy, K&A is committed to maintaining a balanced understanding of all the areas which our clients typically deal with on a construction and development project. This understanding enables us to assist our clients with many aspects of their company, including site selection, budgeting, programming, design, bidding, and construction. Our understanding and involvement in these practice areas helps ensure that our projects remain on budget and focused on the initial business intent. This market driven approach toward design and construction puts K&A at the forefront of architecture in retail and restaurant projects. Our retail specialty continues to be jewelery store design, including one of the industry