Business Details
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Iowa City
At Horizon Architecture, we believe in a collaborative design and build environment that creates delightful and durable solutions. Our team brings extensive experience in diverse architectural projects, from commercial and residential to historic preservation. Founded by Mike Nolan, a licensed architect and Air Force veteran, we combine global perspectives with local expertise to deliver high-performance buildings that stand the test of time. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our LEED accreditations and innovative approaches like 3D printed homes. We prioritize client satisfaction through transparent communication and a design philosophy rooted in integrity, functionality, and aesthetic excellence.Our team includes professionals with advanced degrees and certifications in architecture, historic preservation, and sustainable design. We actively contribute to community initiatives, serving on local boards and advocating for equitable housing solutions. Our process begins with understanding client needs and evolves through iterative collaboration to transform ideas into reality. With registrations in multiple states and partnerships across industries, we deliver tailored solutions that balance technical precision with creative vision. Our work has been recognized for its emphasis on energy efficiency, durability, and harmonious integration with historic contexts.
Services
Architecture
High Performance Building Design
Construction Project Management
Historic Preservation
Sustainable Design
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of combined experience in diverse architectural projects
- Our team includes LEED-accredited professionals and certified passive house consultants
- We implement a patented process for sustainable building system integration
- Our veteran-owned firm combines global expertise with local community knowledge
- We provide transparent project management from concept to completion
Associations and certifications
- LEED AP
- Certified Passive House Consultant (PHIUS)
- Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
- State of Iowa Targeted Small Business (TSB)
- Registered Architect - Iowa, Illinois, Colorado and Massachusetts
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services combine technical precision with creative innovation to create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. We specialize in custom solutions for commercial, residential, and institutional projects, emphasizing durability and long-term value. Our team works closely with clients throughout the design process to ensure projects meet both practical needs and visionary goals.
High Performance Building Design
We design energy-efficient buildings that minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant comfort. Our approach integrates advanced building systems, passive design strategies, and life-cycle analysis to create structures that perform optimally over time. This includes expertise in net-zero energy design and materials selection for long-term sustainability.
Historic Preservation
Our historic preservation services maintain architectural integrity while meeting modern functionality requirements. We specialize in adaptive reuse projects that extend building lifespans while respecting original design elements. This includes compliance with Secretary of the Interior's standards and careful integration of new additions with historic structures.
Construction Project Management
We provide comprehensive project management from concept through completion, ensuring timely delivery and budget adherence. Our team coordinates all aspects of construction while maintaining design integrity. This includes quality control, contractor coordination, and regular progress monitoring to ensure successful project outcomes.
Feasibility Studies
Our feasibility studies evaluate project viability through technical, financial, and regulatory assessments. We analyze site conditions, zoning requirements, and construction costs to identify potential challenges early in the process. This helps clients make informed decisions before committing significant resources to development projects.
People
Mike Nolan
Principal Architect
A licensed architect and Air Force veteran with 10+ years of combat aviation experience, Mike brings technical precision and leadership to Horizon Architecture. He founded the firm to combine global design perspectives with community-focused solutions, holding multiple professional certifications including LEED AP and CPHC.
Lena Michalek
LEED Accredited Architect
Specializing in sustainable design, Lena holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Kansas with historic preservation certification. Her New Mexico roots influence her environmentally conscious approach, focusing on creating buildings that serve both users and communities through innovative, eco-friendly solutions.
David Houston
Design Consultant
With 25+ years in architecture, David specializes in commercial and residential projects with a focus on historical preservation. He founded the nonprofit Homes 4 My Peeps to address housing challenges in underserved communities, applying his expertise to sustainable urban development initiatives.
Scott McDonough
Project Manager
A former builder with 20+ years of construction experience, Scott bridges design and implementation. His background in sustainable homebuilding informs his project management approach, ensuring practical solutions that maintain design integrity while meeting budget and timeline requirements.
Rawya Osman
Architecture Designer
Originally from Sudan, Rawya brings international design perspectives to her work. With a Master of Science in Architecture from the University of Khartoum, she is pursuing advanced studies at Iowa State University while contributing culturally informed, innovative designs to Horizon's projects.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in commercial, residential, and historic preservation projects with a focus on sustainable, high-performance building design.
How does your design process work?
Our collaborative process begins with understanding client needs, followed by iterative design development and technical refinement to create tailored solutions.
Do you handle both design and construction management?
Yes, we offer full-service architecture including construction project management to ensure design integrity throughout the building process.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Iowa City, Muscatine, and surrounding areas but collaborate on projects across multiple states.
Are you LEED certified?
Yes, our team includes LEED Accredited Professionals and Certified Passive House Consultants.
