Press Release
COLE Architects Opens Bend, Oregon Office
BOISE, Idaho, May 2021 — COLE Architects has finalized a merger with Bend-based DKA Architecture and Design, which was founded in 2000 by architects Phil Doza and John Kvapil. The move will expand both firms’ service capabilities and allow them to better meet the needs of their clients. Both locations will retain their existing personnel and will operate as COLE Architects under one ownership team.
“These are two exceptional groups of individuals and the merging of abilities promises an exciting new chapter for all of us,” says Matt Huffield, President and Managing Partner at COLE Architects. “Our goal is that everyone in our firm finds satisfaction in their work and continues to stretch their abilities.”
The partnership will be mutually beneficial for both firms, which share a similar portfolio, industry experience, and culture. “DKA’s principals share a personal commitment to creating architecture that embodies the unique qualities of a given urban and regional context,” explains DKA Cofounder and Principal John Kvapil. “And because COLE Architects is nearly identical to DKA in qualifications, design horsepower, and aesthetic approach to architecture, we see this as a positive development in that it affords us greater flexibility to focus on what we do best.”
In 2020, COLE Architects celebrated 25 years in business. Over the years, the firm has attracted a diversity of talent, backgrounds, and expertise that lends itself to a collaborative environment and well-balanced work. Its personnel of 18 is comprised of 10 licensed architects, an interior design team, marketing director, administrative staff, and architectural interns — several of whom sit on local design boards and regional service boards.
Moving forward, Huffield envisions COLE Architects “maintaining our local and regional influence and focusing on doing what’s right — whether that means being true to design and materials, creating a harmonious work environment for our employees, or focusing on important sustainability and environmental issues.”
About COLE Architects
Since 1995, COLE Architects has become known for its trend-setting and award-winning designs, sustainability, community-centric work, and diverse portfolio. This portfolio includes education, governmental, office, light industrial, medical, retail, hospitality, adaptive reuse, resort facilities, churches, breweries, wineries, automobile dealerships, single- and multi-family residential buildings, and mixed-use developments. The firm has been recognized by AIA Idaho, AIA Washington, Sunset Magazine, Intermountain Contractor, Idaho Historic Preservation Council, Central Oregon Realtors Association, COBA Excellence Award, City of Boise Building Excellence Awards, Idaho Smart Growth, and Best Places to Work in Idaho.
