i am AL : : collaborator . problem solver . creator

bio  : :  Everyone calls me Al and I am a bilingual, food-loving, bike-riding Architect currently residing in Heidelberg, Germany. I graduated summa cum laude with a Master of Architecture from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, KS. Both in and out of the studio, I enjoy peanut butter and chocolate [especially when combined], graphic design, big words, tactile textures and alliterations, clever t-shirts, building and creating, as well as random bouts of dancing. Urban exploration and cycling are both passions of mine, as are well-executed architectural details and materials that engage the senses. I sketch, I stencil, draft and render. I photograph and bike, though not simultaneously. I lift heavy weights and I enjoy good design. I’m a bit of everything I suppose, never fitting neatly within one stereotype or any box, but I always yearn for greatness and a high quality product. I learn quickly, work hard, and play well with others.

philosophy  : :  The built environment surrounds us and affects the quality of our everyday lives. And although we cannot always choose it, it becomes part of who we are. From grand gestures and an imposing presence to subtle details and tactile textures - every brick, sheet of metal, neon sign and translucent pane of glass defines our experience. Our world. And every room, building, and public space is a part of its client and the people it serves. For me, design is about function, evolution, and customization. I believe architecture should be holistic and sustainable, both in its materiality and energy consumption as well as in its social responsibility. I also believe architecture never stands alone and therefore requires an entirely collaborative process.