After 16 years of business, Nelson Architects is pleased to announce our two newest shareholders: our very own Tyson Kraft and Andrew Stucker!

Tyson Kraft, Project Architect, joined Nelson Architects in May 2009 working as an intern during college breaks. In 2012, after graduating college, Tyson became full time working as an Architect in Training (AIT). When asked about what it was like working for Nelson Architects in the company’s formative years, his response was, “We worked in Dale’s basement! He lined a project out for me on my first day of work and then left for a week’s vacation to celebrate summer break with his wife. I guess it was trial by fire.” Tyson brings high quality work that meets our client expectations while simultaneously keeping projects on schedule and under budget to our team. His commitment to designing for the human experience has led to countless projects successfully being constructed for years to come. Tyson will lead Nelson Architects into their next chapter with the goal of improving upon the company’s existing strengths.

Andrew Stucker, Project Architect, has been a part of our team since May 2015. Andrew started with Nelson Architects as an Architect in Training (AIT) a week after finishing his graduate degree from Montana State University. He has spent the last 6 years with Nelson Architects honing his design skills and expanding his knowledge of the construction industry. Andrew has dedicated his time to designing efficient and cost-effective projects that meet the needs of the clientele while celebrating their business through intricate design elements entwined throughout the project. He values the “we” over “me” in each task and this process has developed his reputation for being detail-oriented and client driven. This philosophy is exhibited in his dedication to teamwork and collaboration within the office and the field, ensuring his clients that he wants their projects to succeed as much as they do. Andrew plans to continue to foster and grow his relationships throughout the Montana communities and looks forward to being a part of Nelson Architects’ future.

In honor of this celebratory event, we sat down with both Andrew and Tyson and asked them to share their insights on the creative process, the unexpected importance of influences, and some sound advice about the field of Architecture.

Andrew Stucker, Project Architect/ Shareholder

NA: What is one thing that can be both a challenge and benefit of working in architecture and construction?
AS: Coordination. Coordination at all levels of a project can make or break it entirely. A lack thereof can cause a multitude of issues. On the other hand, if everyone’s objectives and directives are aligned and communication is clear and concise, the project can achieve completion efficiently and effectively.
NA: Where do you first start when beginning a new construction project/ production design/ architecture project? 
AS: I find I achieve the most success with my work when I outline the who, what and how first. If I can understand who the space is being designed for, what the space is being used for and how the who and what utilize the space then I can begin to understand the foundation of the design of the space and let my creativity flow from there.
NA: Who in the industry do you particularly admire? Why?
AS: I have always been an admirer of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s work. I enjoy the simplicity and elegance of his work; the materials and their natural appearance give his designs a dynamism without any of the extra clutter that comes with a lot of what we currently are accustomed to due to the nature of our society.
NA: Where do you often find inspiration if you feel stuck?
AS: At home with my friends and family. I find that if I disconnect myself from work and allow my mind to reset, I come back invigorated and excited to continue or begin projects.
NA: What projects are you working on or have recently completed?
AS: I am currently in the construction administration phase on Great Falls College MSU Dental Clinic and Big Iron Truck Wash. I have a few other projects in the works but must wait to reveal them until they are further along. So stay tuned!
NA: What is your dream project?
AS: A professional sports arena of any type.
NA: What is some advice you can share with others about architecture?
AS: As an Architect, I consider myself an extension of my client. I have your best interest in mind and want to ensure it is your dream we are creating.

Tyson Kraft, Project Architect/ Shareholder

NA: What is one thing that can be both a challenge and benefit of working in construction/ architecture/ production?
TK: Always creating new home projects to take on (laughs)! All kidding aside, what jumps out at me that is both challenging and intriguing is that the profession is always evolving. No matter what you know, there is a continuous learning process for everything. Architecture is a field that is always trying to improve the way a building looks either by reducing the material and energy impact of a building, or even completely altering the way someone feels inside a space.
NA: Where do you first start when beginning a new construction project/ production design/ architecture project? 
TK: I start by examining the scope and fully understanding the project. The better I can understand my client, the smoother and more successful the project will be.
NA: Who in the industry do you particularly admire? Why?
TK: I like Olson Kundig. Their projects always do a good job interacting with the site, enhancing the look/feeling in and around the space, and have a dynamic expression through their choice of materials.
NA: Where do you often find inspiration if you feel stuck?
TK: I cannot say it is just one place. I reference past projects, consult coworkers, study precedents… I could come back to it another day and go a completely different direction. I think it is that diversity that helps me get through most of the obstacles I come against.
NA: What projects are you working on or have recently completed?
TK: I recently constructed a pergola in my back yard. I feel having hands-on construction experience is critical for a designer and the design improvement to the patio turned out great!
On the business side of things: we are getting close to finishing HUB Insurance’s new office headquarters here in Great Falls. Located in an industrial area right off a Burlington-Northern rail spur, this office building was inspired by the industrial feel of the area. I am also in the final stages of construction on a critical access hospital renovation that required to be designed and constructed in 10 weeks! This schedule has forced us to think outside the box on both the design and construction side!
NA: What is your dream project?
TK: A little cliche since every architect has said this, but I have always wanted to take a stab at designing my own home. It would not be some grandiose design, but will be well thought out, concise, have attention to all the little details, and would be integrated into the site. I just have to convince my wife we can do it! (laughs)
NA: What is some advice you can share with others about architecture?
TK: I guess in general terms it would be that everything is a process. Just like with most things in life, there is so much more behind the scenes that goes into completing a project. It is not just about a quick floor plan to get something in the ground – it is putting the due diligence in designing something all-encompassing, creating a design that exceeds the desires of the client, and a design that functions well for the long term.