Feature + Opportunity at Karin Payson Architecture + Design

“Brisbane, California got a brand-new library last fall, one that acts more like a living room. Designed, in a one-off collaboration, by Siegel & Strain Architects and Karin Payson Architecture + Design, it is a layered communal space that balances apparent contradictions: It fits into its context and stands out at the same time. It brings the outdoors inside and draws the indoors out. It even allows visitors to be alone, in public—to sit in a space that feels private, but with the possibility of having chance encounters.” - Metropolis

Karin Payson proudly shared this Metropolis feature and added, "We at KPa+d are very proud of our recently-completed library for the city of Brisbane, CA.  Public libraries are a very special part of our very diverse practice, which includes an array of projects for private and non-profit clients. And further still: We’re Hiring!"

Excellent Career Opportunity for Advanced - Intermediate Architect

KPa+d is an award-winning San Francisco architecture firm, looking for an advanced intern or recently licensed architect who seeks an unusual opportunity. It is a 5-person firm in the North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, with a disciplined approach to design and a very wide array of projects in architecture and interior architecture. KPa+d has been in business for over 30 years and is looking for a next generation colleague to step into a role that could, in time, lead to partnership.

If you ultimately want to run your own practice and are looking to develop the understanding and gather the skills and experience to do so, KPa+d is eager to speak with you. KPa+d currently has an exciting mix of commercial, public and private sector work in all stages of development from conceptual design, construction documentation, and contract negotiation to construction administration. Current project values range from $2.5 - $10 Million.

The KPa+d design approach is focused less on stylistic dogma and more on strong planning principles, the integration of natural light and landscape and meticulous detailing. The office engages in a variety of architectural and interiors projects, from single-family homes to public buildings to larger, urban-scaled housing and office buildings.  They have completed numerous high-end private residences, several public libraries and custom commercial and institutional interiors throughout Northern California, as well as projects in New York State and Wyoming. Our work has been published in California Home and Design, PLAIN Magazine, Library Journal, Architectural Digest, California Homes, Sunset Magazine, and the local newspapers.

The Job: In this small office each individual has a variety of responsibilities and opportunities; your role will evolve according to your relative strengths. You will work closely with the Principal to provide design and presentation support in early project stages. You will organize and coordinate construction documents under direction of the Project Manager in some cases and you will personally manage selected projects in others.

KPa+d is looking for an accomplished architect with solid technical skills, a strong spatial thinker able to visualize spaces before they exist, with a great eye and a well-honed design sensibility.

Candidates should have terrific social skills and able to appreciate and develop the fine details while remaining focused on the big picture. The successful candidate will be a well-educated, self-motivated architect who enjoys doing interior architecture and is comfortable in a small-firm environment. You are well organized, have good work habits and computer skills and have worked for at least 5 years, (ideally 7 – 10) in the United States since receiving your professional degree. At minimum, a B.Arch is required, M.Arch is preferred. Skill in Revit is required. Skill and experience in Vectorworks and AutoCAD are a plus. Talented sketchers are always appreciated. Also required are fluency in English, both spoken and written, as well as legal status to work in the US, (no visa seekers, please).

Salary and benefits are competitive. KPa+d values and strives for optimal work/life balance and structure, taking alternate Fridays off, year-round. The office culture reflects the KPa+d commitment to nurturing a career while protecting your creative spirit. The firm insists that people take time off and encourage everyone to work hard but use your personal time. KPa+d cultivates whole lives. People are empowered to step up to opportunities, to interact with clients and to grow.

If you value a small firm structure with limited hierarchy offering unlimited opportunity in a firm that already has GREAT momentum, and if you think this might be the right career move for you, please send your resume to admin@kpad.com.