Wald Ruhnke & Dost Architects

WHO WE ARE

Wald Ruhnke & Dost Architects, LLP stands as the largest and most actively engaged architectural firm in Monterey County. We are deeply committed to designing socially impactful projects that enhance our community. Since our establishment in 1963, our firm has brought to life over 2,000 projects throughout the Monterey Bay region, leaving a lasting mark on the landscape with many beloved local landmarks. We pride ourselves on fostering an environment where the community's most talented and dedicated architects can thrive, using their expertise to design functional and aesthetically pleasing buildings and interiors that support both public and private ventures. Those who collaborate with us recognize our unwavering reputation for integrity, professionalism, trustworthiness, and unyielding excellence.

OUR HISTORY

The story of WRD Architects is deeply intertwined with the landscape and history of the Monterey Peninsula. It all began with Don Wald, a man whose affection for this region blossomed during his late teenage years while serving at the former Fort Ord U.S. Army base. Upon his honorable discharge as a Staff Sergeant, Don returned to his home state and pursued his passion for architecture at the University of Illinois. Even with his studies briefly interrupted by his service in the Korean War, Don's determination led him to complete his bachelor's degree at U of I. After graduation, Don revolutionized the construction industry by developing innovative methods for locally built modular churches, hundreds of which found their place across the United States. During an assignment as a field superintendent in California, Don and his wife Cynthia made the decision to settle permanently on the stunning Monterey Peninsula.

Don Wald & Associates, founded in November 1963 in Pacific Grove, quickly gained recognition for designing a host of beloved local landmarks, including the Gateway Center, the Sally Griffin Senior Center, and an addition to Pacific Grove's Natural History Museum. Don also showcased his architectural vision by designing a sprawling "Super Home" spanning 20,000 square feet, which at the time held the distinction of being the second largest home in California, second only to Bob Hope's. In 1970, Don relocated his office to Downtown Monterey, where he spearheaded the design of over 2,000 projects across the Central Coast.

THE SUCCESSOR GENERATION

Upon Don's retirement in 1994, he entrusted Henry Ruhnke and Frank Dost, trusted members of his team, with the leadership of the firm. Within a decade, these visionary principals propelled WRD Architects to become one of the largest and most successful firms in Northern California. To accommodate the firm's burgeoning growth, Henry and Frank established WRD Architects' current headquarters at 2340 Garden Road in 2005, a strategic location near the Monterey Airport and Ryan Ranch, a thriving commercial business park district. A testament to Henry's design prowess, this location now boasts 19 buildings designed by him. Reflecting a growing focus on public projects, WRD embarked on the design of numerous significant civic facilities on the Monterey Peninsula, including the Monterey County Health Department and Tynan Village. Driven by a forward-thinking approach, Henry launched an ambitious plan in 2010 to revitalize Downtown Monterey, spearheading the guiding principles of the Downtown Specific Plan. Simultaneously, he began to envision the future of the firm, naming Christopher Barlow as fellow principal when Frank.