Runberg Architecture Group (www.runberg.com), a Seattle-based firm specializing in urban mixed-use, housing and adaptive reuse projects, has promoted Kristen Johnson, Architect, LEED® AP BD+C, to senior associate.
A veteran architect with nearly a decade and a half of experience, Johnson believes in the importance of maintaining the historic and cultural integrity of each neighborhood – a philosophy that shines through in her work. She currently serves as project manager for design of Little Saigon Family Housing, a 69-unit low-income housing development in Seattle’s Little Saigon neighborhood.
“Kristen’s professional experience encompasses a variety of project types with a focus on environmentally conscious design,” said Brian Runberg, AIA, partner and founder of the firm. “Her focus on affordable housing, renovation and adaptive reuse projects make her an incredible asset to our team. We’re thrilled to announce Kristen as our newest senior associate.”
Johnson was previously project architect for design and construction of The Marion West, a 49-unit low-income housing development and food bank recently recognized with two Gold Nugget Grand Awards for Residential Housing Project of the Year and Affordable Housing Community. She was also the project architect for the adaptive reuse of the award-winning Supply Laundry Building, a 35,000 square-foot national historic landmark building, as part of the mixed-use Stack House apartments project.
“I’ve found my way into two main areas of focus, low-income housing and historic preservation, and both feel particularly important at this moment when our city is experiencing such dramatic growth,” Johnson said. “I love learning about the Seattleites who inhabited our oldest buildings and get great satisfaction from designing efficient spaces for current residents who might otherwise be pushed out of the city.”
Before joining Runberg in January 2010, Johnson spent four years at Cook + Fox Architects in New York City. Her project experience included 148 Lafayette and Historic Front Street in New York’s South Street Seaport district.
Johnson holds a Master of Architecture from Yale School of Architecture and Bachelor of Arts from Dartmouth College. Outside the studio, she currently serves as a member of Seattle’s Landmark Preservation Board.
About Runberg Architecture Group
Since its founding in 1998, Runberg Architecture Group has earned a name for thoughtful architectural design that balances the unique social, economic and environmental interests of each project. Runberg designs sustainable mixed-use urban environments where people want to be – vibrant, engaging places that create high and enduring value for its clients and communities. The firm understands that quality of life is highest in places where social, economic and environmental interests are in harmony. Runberg’s mission is to design places that achieve this harmony for its clients and communities by honoring the distinct needs and opportunities of each project.
