Business Details
28 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Sacramento
K12 Architects is a full-service architectural and master planning firm licensed in California and several other states. Our firm specializes in designing car washes, travel plazas, fuel systems, gas stations, convenience stores, and other roadside retail or service facilities. With over 25 years of combined experience, our team of licensed architects brings professionalism, technical expertise, and clear communication to every project. We have successfully completed hundreds of projects across Northern California, including industrial buildings, restaurants, hotel remodels, and historic restorations. Our approach emphasizes forging strong partnerships with local agencies and regulatory bodies to ensure project success.We maintain licenses in multiple states and hold specialized certifications in construction specifications and sustainable design. Our project management process includes comprehensive evaluation, site analysis, cost estimation, and construction observation to deliver high-quality results. We prioritize continuous client communication through regular meetings and milestone updates to ensure transparency and satisfaction. Our team has developed expertise in both above-ground and underground fueling systems, serving major fuel brands and retail chains. We remain committed to exceeding client expectations through integrity, quality, and technical excellence.
Services
Car Washes
Fueling Systems
Travel Plazas
Gas Stations
Convenience Stores
Fast Food
Churches
Schools
Municipal Buildings
Custom Homes
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of combined experience in architectural design and project management.
- Our team includes LEED-certified architects with expertise in sustainable design.
- We specialize in complex fueling systems and roadside retail facilities.
- We maintain continuous client communication through milestone updates and meetings.
- Our architects hold specialized certifications in construction specifications and planning.
Associations and certifications
- LEED Green Associate
- LEED AP
- Construction Specification Institute (CSI)
Services
Car Washes
We design specialized car wash facilities incorporating efficient vehicle flow, water reclamation systems, and durable materials. Our expertise includes both self-service and automated wash bays tailored to local zoning requirements. Clients benefit from optimized layouts that maximize throughput while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations.
Fueling Systems
Our fueling system designs include above-ground and underground storage solutions with integrated safety features. We handle permitting for tank installations, piping systems, and dispensing equipment. Clients receive comprehensive plans that address fire codes, environmental protections, and accessibility standards for both standalone stations and multi-use sites.
Travel Plazas
We create comprehensive travel plaza designs combining fueling, dining, and convenience retail spaces. Our plans incorporate truck parking configurations, pedestrian pathways, and lighting solutions. Clients receive layouts that balance commercial functionality with traveler amenities while meeting highway safety and accessibility requirements.
Churches
We design worship spaces with acoustical optimization, flexible seating arrangements, and accessible infrastructure. Our plans include administrative offices, educational spaces, and community areas. Clients benefit from our experience navigating religious zoning exemptions and historic preservation requirements for both new constructions and renovations.
Schools
Our school designs focus on modern learning environments with adaptable classroom layouts and safety features. We incorporate energy-efficient systems and technology-ready infrastructure. Clients receive specialized planning for multipurpose rooms, administrative areas, and outdoor learning spaces that meet current educational standards and accessibility codes.
People
Kurt P. Wagenknecht
Principal Architect
Licensed architect with 45+ years of experience, specializing in schools and municipal projects. Graduated from Cal Poly SLO in 1977 and founded K12 Architects in 1998 after working at major firms like DMJM.
Steven C. Elser
Principal Architect
LEED-certified architect specializing in fuel systems and commercial buildings. Graduated from Phoenix Institute of Technology in 1989 and co-founded K12 Architects. Expert in dual-branding fuel station designs for major brands.
Brian Cournoyer
Project Architect
28-year licensed architect with expertise in technical specifications and LEED-certified projects. Holds CSI membership for 27 years and specializes in forensic architecture and multi-disciplinary project coordination.
Questions
What types of architectural projects does K12 Architects specialize in?
We specialize in car washes, fueling systems, travel plazas, churches, schools, and municipal buildings with expertise in both commercial and public sector projects.
Are K12 Architects licensed in states outside California?
Our architects hold licenses in California, Nevada, and Oregon, allowing us to manage projects across multiple western states.
How does K12 Architects handle regulatory compliance for fuel systems?
We coordinate with local agencies, health departments, and planning administrators to ensure all fuel system designs meet environmental regulations and safety standards.
What LEED certification experience does your team have?
Our team includes LEED Green Associates and LEED AP-certified architects with experience in sustainable design for commercial and institutional projects.
Can you design multi-brand fuel stations with restaurant combinations?
Yes, we have extensive experience creating dual-branding fuel stations that integrate major restaurant chains like McDonald's and Jack in the Box.
