by Brian Libby

Since Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen Architects was founded, the Seattle firm has sought to integrate contemporary architectural forms into the natural settings of the Pacific Northwest, employing a combination of sensitivity and efficiency that can be recognized as sustainable design.

Jim Olson established the firm in 1971 on two principles that continue to inform its work today: that buildings can serve as a bridge between nature and culture, and that inspiring surroundings have a positive effect on people's lives.

Olson's success in growing a firm that creates works of exceptional form and texture has been recognized by the American Institute of Architects with its 2009 AIA Architecture Firm Award.

The AIA's highest honor for a firm recognizes a practice that has consistently produced distinguished architecture for at least ten years. Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen joins such other recipients as KieranTimberlake, Miller Hull, Gensler, Gwathmey Siegel, and Roche-Dinkeloo.

Craft at Any Scale

With just under 90 people on staff, Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen is big enough to compete for large-scale commissions and small enough to continue designing outstanding single-family homes.   >>>

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The mixed-use Pike & Virginia Building (1978) in Seattle is just across from Pike Place Public Market. Photo: Dick Busher Extra Large Image Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen Architects received the 2009 AIA Architecture Firm Award. Photo: Courtesy Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen Extra Large Image   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.