Business Details
46 Years
experience
Trusted Architects in Milwaukee, WI
Founded in 1980, TKWA is a full-service architecture, planning, and interior design studio rooted in a philosophy of Wholeness, where the built environment harmonizes human activity, natural systems, and community needs. Our collaborative approach emphasizes sustainable design, regenerative practices, and stakeholder engagement through our proprietary Pattern Writing process. As the first Wisconsin design firm to become a Public Benefit Corporation, we prioritize social and environmental responsibility, evidenced by our AIA Firm Award and commitment to equity, diversity, and transparency via the JUST label.With offices in Milwaukee, Cedarburg, and Seattle, our team of AIA, LEED, and NCARB-accredited professionals delivers site-sensitive solutions across cultural, educational, religious, and workplace sectors. Our 40+ years of experience, combined with a focus on craft, collaboration, and innovation, position us as thought leaders advocating for architecture as an interdependent living system.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Sustainable Architecture
Urban Planning
Historic Preservation
Educational Facility Design
Religious Space Design
Public Realm Development
Pattern Writing Process
Consultation Services
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of experience in sustainable architecture and urban design.
- Our AIA Firm Award-winning practice prioritizes social and environmental responsibility.
- We pioneered the Pattern Writing process for collaborative, stakeholder-driven design.
- Our team includes AIA, LEED, and NCARB-accredited professionals with diverse expertise.
- We operate as a Wisconsin Public Benefit Corporation committed to transparency and equity.
Associations and certifications
- AIA Firm Award
Services
Architectural Design
TKWA creates site-sensitive architectural solutions that integrate human activity with natural systems. Our designs prioritize sustainability, durability, and community impact, serving diverse sectors including education, culture, and hospitality. With expertise in historic preservation and modern construction, we deliver spaces that evolve with their environments.
Pattern Writing Process
This proprietary method develops shared project narratives through stakeholder collaboration. By defining patterns that address specific challenges, we ensure designs reflect client needs while maintaining ecological balance. The process empowers clients to shape spaces that support both functional requirements and long-term adaptability.
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable approach embeds environmental responsibility into every project phase. We apply LEED standards, prioritize local materials, and design energy-efficient systems that reduce long-term operational impacts. This philosophy extends beyond buildings to create regenerative relationships between structures and their surrounding ecosystems.
Interior Design
TKWA's interior designs enhance functionality while reflecting organizational identity. We focus on creating adaptable, human-centric environments that promote well-being and productivity. Our solutions integrate natural light, ergonomic considerations, and material selections that align with overall sustainability goals.
Urban Planning
We shape public realms that foster community engagement and ecological health. Our planning considers transportation networks, green spaces, and mixed-use developments to create walkable, inclusive environments. Projects emphasize long-term resilience and equitable access to urban resources.
People
Tom Kubala
Co-Founder
With over 40 years of experience, Tom co-founded TKWA in 1980, establishing its Wholeness philosophy. He champions architecture as an interdependent system, guiding projects that balance human needs with environmental stewardship.
Allen Washatko
Co-Founder
Allen co-founded TKWA in 1980, shaping its collaborative design ethos. His work emphasizes meticulous attention to detail and reverence for natural contexts, influencing generations of architects through sustainable practice.
Vince Micha
Partner
As a partner, Vince leads projects that integrate TKWA's Wholeness principles. He focuses on advancing sustainable design strategies and fostering client relationships that align with the firm's regenerative mission.
Erik Hancock
Partner
Erik contributes expertise in equitable design and community engagement. His work bridges architectural innovation with social responsibility, ensuring projects meet both functional needs and broader societal goals.
Chris Socha
Partner
Chris leads design teams with a focus on craft and sustainability. His technical proficiency ensures high-quality execution of complex projects while maintaining alignment with TKWA's environmental commitments.
Questions
What services does TKWA offer?
TKWA provides architecture, interior design, urban planning, and sustainable design services, specializing in cultural, educational, religious, and workplace projects.
What makes TKWA's approach unique?
Our Pattern Writing process fosters collaborative design, integrating stakeholder input to create spaces that align with human needs and natural systems.
Where does TKWA operate?
We work locally in Wisconsin and nationally, with international projects in China and offices in Milwaukee, Cedarburg, and Seattle.
Is TKWA committed to sustainability?
Yes. We prioritize regenerative design and became Wisconsin's first Public Benefit Corporation architecture firm to formalize this commitment.
What recognitions has TKWA received?
We received the AIA Firm Award, the highest honor from Wisconsin's architectural professional organization, for our impactful design work.
