Business Details
Your Trusted Architectural Partner Since 1892
Since 1892, Design West Architects has been a trusted leader in architectural design, rooted in the legacy of founder Karl C. Schaub. Our firm combines European-trained expertise with deep regional knowledge to deliver quality architecture and service across Utah and beyond. Over 130 years, we've designed iconic landmarks including Utah State University's Romanesque structures, LDS Temple doors, and over 100 educational facilities. Our multidisciplinary team specializes in commercial, educational, and residential projects, maintaining Schaub's original commitment to excellence. With offices in Logan and Salt Lake City, we serve diverse sectors including education, healthcare, and municipal infrastructure.Our experience spans K-12 schools, university housing, and innovative learning environments, with over 50 elementary, middle, and high school projects completed. We maintain rigorous design standards through continuous staff development and technology integration, including BIM specialists and advanced architectural tools. Our team's collective expertise includes seismic retrofitting, sustainable design, and historic preservation. We uphold transparent communication and client collaboration as core principles, ensuring each project meets functional needs while achieving aesthetic distinction. This enduring commitment to quality has made us one of Utah's most respected architectural firms.
Services
Commercial Architecture
Landscape Architecture
Interior Design
Educational Facilities
Residential Projects
Municipal Buildings
Historic Preservation
Sustainable Design
BIM Services
Project Management
Highlights and features
- We offer 130+ years of architectural expertise in Utah's unique environments
- Our team includes specialized BIM architects and LEED-certified professionals
- We maintain ISO 9001 quality management standards for project execution
- Our portfolio includes over 100 educational facilities across Utah
- We combine historic preservation expertise with modern design innovation
Services
Commercial Architecture
We create functional, aesthetically distinctive commercial spaces tailored to client needs. Our expertise spans office buildings, retail centers, and mixed-use developments. With over 130 years of experience, we combine innovative design with practical functionality to deliver spaces that enhance business operations and community engagement.
Educational Facilities
Specializing in K-12 and higher education environments, we design inspiring learning spaces. Our portfolio includes over 100 schools, from elementary renovations to university innovation centers. We focus on creating flexible, technology-integrated spaces that support modern pedagogy while ensuring safety and accessibility standards.
Historic Preservation
We preserve architectural heritage through careful restoration of historic structures. Our work includes the Salt Lake City LDS Temple doors and Utah State University landmarks. We balance historical accuracy with modern functionality, employing specialized techniques to maintain original character while meeting current building codes.
Interior Design
Our interior design services create cohesive, functional environments for commercial and residential spaces. We focus on spatial optimization, material selection, and lighting design to enhance user experience. Our team works closely with architects to ensure seamless integration of interior elements with overall building design.
BIM Services
We utilize advanced BIM technology for precise project visualization and coordination. Our 15+ BIM specialists create detailed 3D models that improve construction accuracy and reduce costs. This digital approach enhances collaboration across disciplines and supports efficient project management throughout the building lifecycle.
People
Blake Wright
President, Landscape Architect
Leading the firm since 2015, Blake brings 25+ years of experience in sustainable design and landscape architecture. He oversees strategic direction while maintaining active project involvement.
Chris Knoles
Director of Marketing & Business Development
With 15 years in architectural marketing, Chris manages client relations and business growth strategies. He connects community needs with the firm's design capabilities to expand service opportunities.
Larry Hepworth
Vice President, Architect
A licensed architect with 30+ years' experience, Larry specializes in educational facility design. He leads complex school projects, ensuring compliance with evolving educational standards and safety requirements.
Adam Zetterquist
Principal, Architect
Adam focuses on historic preservation projects, combining technical expertise with artistic vision. His work maintains architectural heritage while integrating modern functionality for 21st-century use.
Kent Craven
Associate, Senior Project Manager
With 20+ years in project management, Kent ensures timely, budget-conscious delivery of commercial projects. He coordinates multidisciplinary teams to maintain design integrity throughout construction phases.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in commercial architecture, educational facilities, landscape design, interior spaces, and historic preservation projects across Utah.
How long has your firm been in business?
Design West Architects has provided architectural services since 1892, with continuous operation for over 130 years.
Do you work on historic building restoration projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience restoring historic structures including Utah State University landmarks and LDS Temple elements.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Northern Utah, including Cache Valley and Salt Lake City, with projects across the Wasatch Front region.
Can you handle large-scale educational facility projects?
We've completed over 100 educational projects including elementary schools, high schools, and university housing complexes.
Do you offer BIM and digital design services?
Yes, our team includes 15+ BIM specialists who utilize advanced modeling for precise project visualization and coordination.
