Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen

Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen Architects, which underwent a name change this year from Olson/Sundberg, has grown to 68 employees. Last year at this time there were 45 people. The firm has added an interior design component to the office to assist in the development of projects that do not involve outside interior designers. Challenges include finding qualified staff and space to accommodate the growing office.

The firm continues to work in four broad markets: residential projects (often for art collectors), museums and galleries, institutional buildings and religious buildings. There are currently projects in all corners of the United States and Canada, including Georgia, California, Utah, Idaho, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Texas, Florida, British Columbia and Washington.

Current projects include a new building for Whatcom Community College in Bellingham, Mission Hill Winery in Kelowna, B.C., and the Newman Center near the University of Washington campus.

The firm is cautiously optimistic about future business, according to business development director Matt Anderson. “We anticipate a general moderation, or downturn, in the demand for architectural services in the near future. However, our current project obligations remain strong through the next year. Institutional and commercial projects are becoming a larger portion of our work, and we expect that trend to continue to grow until it reaches parity with our residential projects. Environmentally sensitive design is fast becoming a standard for all of our work, as our clients are increasingly willing to integrate sustainable design ideas into their projects.”