Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Milwaukee, WI
Founded in 1980, TKWA has dedicated over four decades to creating regenerative architectural spaces that harmonize human activity, natural systems, and built environments. Our philosophy of Wholeness guides every project, emphasizing sustainability, collaboration, and community enrichment. As Wisconsin's first Public Benefit Corporation in design, we integrate socially responsible practices with innovative Pattern Writing methodologies to ensure client-driven outcomes. Our team of AIA, LEED, and WELL-certified professionals delivers expertise across cultural, educational, residential, and commercial sectors. With studios in Milwaukee, Cedarburg, and Seattle, we combine local context with global thought leadership in architecture. Our commitment to equity, transparency, and measurable practices through the JUST label fosters a workplace culture where staff thrive personally and professionally.Recognized with the AIA Firm Award, we prioritize craft, durability, and maintenance considerations in every design. Collaborating directly with clients as integral team members, we empower stakeholders to shape spaces that serve both immediate needs and future generations. Our 2016 leadership transition to five partners ensured continuity of our founding vision while expanding our impact locally and internationally. From single-family residences to large-scale educational facilities in China, our work reflects a living process that evolves with the communities we serve.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Sustainable Design
Urban Planning
Pattern Writing
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in regenerative architectural design.
- Our team includes AIA, LEED, and WELL-certified professionals.
- We pioneered Pattern Writing for client-driven design consensus.
- We operate as Wisconsin's first Public Benefit Corporation in design.
- Our JUST label participation ensures transparent workplace practices.
Associations and certifications
- AIA Firm Award
- LEED
- Living Building
- WELL
- NCARB
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services create spaces that harmonize human needs with environmental sustainability. We specialize in culturally significant buildings, educational facilities, and commercial structures that prioritize durability and community impact. Our approach integrates client collaboration through Pattern Writing to ensure designs reflect both functional requirements and ecological responsibility.
Sustainable Design
Sustainable design principles are embedded in every project through our Wholeness philosophy. We focus on energy efficiency, material longevity, and ecosystem integration while maintaining aesthetic excellence. Our expertise includes LEED-certified projects and regenerative design strategies that reduce environmental footprints across building lifecycles.
Pattern Writing
Pattern Writing establishes shared design understanding between architects and clients. This collaborative process creates tailored solutions by documenting project-specific challenges and outcomes. It empowers stakeholders to shape spaces that balance practical needs with visionary goals while maintaining alignment with our Wholeness principles.
Interior Design
Our interior design services optimize spatial functionality while maintaining architectural integrity. We create environments that enhance user experience through thoughtful material selection, lighting design, and ergonomic considerations. Projects range from corporate offices to cultural institutions, always prioritizing human well-being and operational efficiency.
Urban Planning
Urban planning initiatives focus on creating inclusive public spaces that strengthen community connections. We design walkable neighborhoods, mixed-use developments, and civic spaces that promote social interaction while addressing climate resilience. Our work in Milwaukee's Walker's Point demonstrates commitment to equitable urban transformation.
People
Tom Kubala
Co-Founder
With 40+ years of architectural experience, Tom co-founded TKWA in 1980. His design philosophy emphasizing Wholeness has shaped the firm's approach to regenerative architecture and community engagement.
Allen Washatko
Co-Founder
Allen has guided TKWA's collaborative design process since its founding. His commitment to integrating natural systems with built environments remains central to the firm's sustainable practices and educational initiatives.
Vince Micha
Partner
As an AIA-certified partner, Vince leads complex architectural projects while maintaining TKWA's Wholeness principles. He contributes expertise in large-scale educational facilities and sustainable design implementation.
Ariel Steuer
Interior Designer
Ariel brings ASID and NCIDQ certifications to interior design projects, focusing on human-centered spaces that balance aesthetics with functional excellence across commercial and cultural sectors.
Erik Hancock
Partner
Erik's architectural expertise spans AIA and NOMA-certified projects. He leads design teams in creating regenerative spaces that address both client needs and broader environmental responsibilities.
Questions
What architectural services does TKWA offer?
We provide full-service architecture, interior design, urban planning, and sustainable design solutions tailored to each project's unique requirements.
How does Pattern Writing benefit design projects?
Pattern Writing establishes clear communication between architects and clients, ensuring design decisions align with documented needs and community goals.
Are you experienced in sustainable architecture?
Yes, our Wholeness philosophy integrates sustainability into every project, including LEED-certified buildings and regenerative design strategies.
Do you work outside Wisconsin?
While based in Wisconsin, we complete projects nationally and internationally, including educational facilities in China.
How do you involve clients in design?
Clients join our design team through collaborative Pattern Writing workshops that shape every aspect of the project development.
