KDA Architecture started with a single Architect with a vision. Since then it has grown, won numerous awards, and been recognized as a design leader in their region. However, it isn’t the awards that keep clients coming back. Clients return to KDA because they trust their three foundational principles; provide good quality design, have a positive impact on people’s lives, and be honest in everything that they do.
Who We Are
After receiving several design awards for projects in Seattle, and drawing inspiration from the work he had performed in Rome, Rod Knipper decided that it was time to open his own firm. In 1973, using his faith as a cornerstone, he set up his practice in Yakima Washington in order to bring his belief in the positive impact of design back to his home town. The idea was simple; provide good quality design, have a positive impact on people’s lives, and do everything with honesty.
With those principles as a foundation, Rod began with small design work and steadily grew into larger commercial, educational, and healthcare markets. Similarly, his firm grew from a one-man practice into a multi-partner firm. KDA’s current partners, Brian Andringa and Dennis Dean, have embraced Rod’s principles and brought an unwavering dedication to caring for clients. Their passion for design and thorough approach have built a list of repeat clients that believe in Rod’s vision and trust the knowledge and creativity of KDA’s design team. Carlos Olivares, the CEO of Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic said “The culture of the patients that we serve is clearly important to KDA Architecture, [and is] revealed by the way they help us design our facilities. They are an incredibly creative firm that takes the time to listen to our needs”.
Although working primarily in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, KDA’s commitment to making a difference in people’s lives has also taken them to Ethiopia, Haiti, Honduras, and Uganda where they have designed hospitals, clinics, and specialty care facilities that support women, children, and areas without an existing healthcare infrastructure. Mission and pro-bono projects allow KDA to use their knowledge to support humanitarian efforts, caregivers, and organizations that help those in need.
KDA Architecture started with a single Architect with a vision. Since then it has grown, won numerous awards, and been recognized as a design leader in their region. However, it isn’t the awards that keep clients coming back. Clients return to KDA because they trust their three foundational principles; provide good quality design, have a positive impact on people’s lives, and do everything with honesty.
What We Do
Established in 1973, KDA Architecture has flourished as an award-winning provider of professional design services. While the firm has been involved in projects around the world, we serve clients primarily throughout the Pacific Northwest. Our size allows us to handle multiple projects and be on track to meet your schedule requirements.
KDA Architecture embraces a client centered design approach that celebrates the identity and needs of each facility. We are convinced that well designed projects bring real value to our clients and their users. Our standard is to create architecture and interior environments that are inspiring and functional, and have a positive impact on the community.
Architecture
Our Architects, each with unique experience and specializations, work together using an explorative design process that weaves together the distinct characteristics of each site, program, and client. Through the values of hard work, a respect for human needs, and an enthusiasm for finding solutions, this results in original notable buildings that represent the client, their culture, and their community.
Interior Design
Our interior design staff is vital to our team. They are actively involved throughout the design process. The interior designers analyze the client’s needs and goals to generate design concepts, aid in space planning, and to select, specify, and coordinate furniture, art, and finishes that enhance the function and quality of the interior spaces. We believe that, both inside and out, the building needs to reflect the culture of our client.
Master Planning
We regard master planning as one of the most important and beneficial parts of the design process. Our team of experienced architects, interior designers, and consultants work together to develop a master plan that can be used for the future growth and success of every project. By combining our skills and expertise, we address the social, economic, and physical aspects of a project, address current needs and growth patterns, and provide a strategic framework for future development.
Our Team
We are more than just a team, we are family. We work hard, laugh often, and encourage creativity and individuality in all projects. Our firm is made up of multicultural individuals that bring refreshing and unique ideas to the table. We foster an environment of open communication and encourage collaboration as a part of every project. Our clients are at the center of all our work and play a vital role throughout the entire design process. We strive to bring their vision to life. With the help of our architects, interior designers, engineers, and specialty consultants, we are well suited to tackle your project goals and work with you to make your project successful.
Awards & Publications
KDA has a great mix of creative professionals that are known for their exemplary designs. Our projects serve as a reflection of our clients and communities as well as the value and integrity of our team. We are proud to share our accomplishments which give further validation to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration between various disciplines and our clients.