Business Details
46 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in Milwaukee
Founded in 1980, TKWA is a full-service architecture, planning, and interior design studio with offices in Milwaukee, Cedarburg, and Seattle. Our philosophy of Wholeness guides every project, emphasizing the harmonious union of human activity, nature, and built space. Over four decades, we have grown into a team of AIA, LEED, and Living Building-certified professionals dedicated to creating regenerative places that strengthen communities. We pioneered Wisconsin's first Public Benefit Corporation designation in 2018, reflecting our commitment to socially and environmentally responsible practice. Our work spans cultural, workplace, educational, and residential projects, with notable recognition including the AIA Firm Award.With a focus on equity, diversity, and wellness, we maintain a workplace culture that mirrors the wholeness we design into our projects. Our team of architects, designers, and advocates brings extensive expertise in sustainable design, historic preservation, and public realm development. We measure our success through the JUST label, a voluntary disclosure platform showcasing our internal practices. From single-family residences to large-scale educational facilities in China, our practice combines meticulous design with reverence for natural systems. As thought leaders, we advocate for architecture as part of interdependent living systems, addressing global climate challenges through regenerative design.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Sustainable Planning
Historic Preservation
Public Realm Development
Educational Facility Design
Residential Architecture
Commercial Renovation
Urban Masterplanning
Green Building Certification
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in sustainable architecture and urban design
- Our team includes AIA, LEED, and Living Building-certified professionals
- We pioneered Wisconsin's first Public Benefit Corporation designation for architecture
- We maintain a 95% client retention rate through personalized design solutions
- Our work has received the highest honor from the American Institute of Architects
Associations and certifications
- AIA Firm Award
- LEED AP
- Living Building Challenge
- WELL Building Standard
- NCARB
- ASID
- JUST Label
Services
Architectural Design
We create innovative architectural solutions that integrate with natural systems and community needs. Our approach combines technical expertise with artistic vision to deliver functional, sustainable spaces. From concept to completion, our team ensures every project reflects our clients' unique requirements while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Sustainable Planning
Our sustainable planning services focus on creating regenerative environments that minimize ecological impact. We employ cutting-edge techniques in energy efficiency, material selection, and site integration. Our expertise includes LEED certification and Living Building Challenge compliance, ensuring projects meet the highest environmental standards while enhancing occupant well-being.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in preserving architectural heritage while incorporating modern functionality. Our team combines historical research with contemporary design solutions to maintain structural integrity. Services include adaptive reuse, restoration of original features, and integration of modern systems while maintaining historical accuracy and regulatory compliance.
Public Realm Development
Our public realm projects create inclusive, accessible community spaces that foster social interaction. We design parks, plazas, and civic buildings that enhance urban environments. Our approach prioritizes accessibility, sustainability, and community engagement through participatory design processes and innovative spatial planning.
Educational Facility Design
We design learning environments that support educational outcomes and student well-being. Our facilities incorporate flexible spaces, natural lighting, and technology integration. Services include classroom design, campus masterplanning, and specialized learning environments that promote collaboration and creativity in educational settings.
People
Tom Kubala
Co-Founder
FAIA-certified architect with 40+ years of experience in sustainable design. Co-founded TKWA in 1980, establishing its philosophy of Wholeness. Recognized for pioneering regenerative architecture in Wisconsin. Mentored multiple generations of architects through the firm's leadership transition in 2016.
Allen Washatko
Co-Founder
AIA-certified architect who co-founded TKWA with Tom Kubala. Developed the firm's collaborative design approach. Instrumental in establishing Wisconsin's first Public Benefit Corporation for architecture. Retired from daily operations but continues to influence the firm's philosophical direction.
Vince Micha
Partner
AIA-certified partner leading the Milwaukee office. Specializes in urban revitalization projects. Oversees the firm's public realm initiatives and community engagement efforts. Advocates for equitable design practices through local policy work and professional leadership roles.
Erik Hancock
Partner
AIA and NOMA-certified partner focusing on educational facilities. Leads the Seattle office's international projects, including large-scale schools in China. Expert in culturally responsive design and sustainable building systems. Active in advancing diversity within the architecture profession.
Claire Hitchcock Tilton
Project Designer
Interior designer specializing in commercial and hospitality spaces. LEED Green Associate with expertise in material sustainability and occupant wellness. Contributes to the firm's JUST label compliance efforts and sustainable material selection processes.
Questions
What architectural services does TKWA offer?
We provide full-service architecture, interior design, and planning for cultural, educational, residential, and commercial projects with a focus on sustainability.
Where does TKWA operate?
We have offices in Milwaukee and Cedarburg, Wisconsin, and Seattle, Washington, serving clients nationally and internationally including projects in China.
What sustainability certifications does TKWA hold?
Our team includes LEED AP, Living Building, and WELL-certified professionals. We pioneered Wisconsin's first Public Benefit Corporation designation for architecture.
How does TKWA approach historic preservation?
We combine historical research with modern design to preserve architectural heritage while incorporating contemporary functionality and sustainability features.
What is TKWA's design philosophy?
Our Wholeness philosophy integrates human activity, natural systems, and built environments to create regenerative spaces that strengthen communities and address climate challenges.
Can TKWA handle international projects?
Yes, we've completed projects in China including large-scale educational facilities while maintaining our Wisconsin-based design excellence and sustainability standards.
