Black and white portrait of a man wearing glasses and a patterned button-up shirt, smiling at the camera.

Kristian Irving

Solutions Designer

Top Ice Cream Flavor:

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Top Read:

The Giver Series

Top Five Strengths:

Context

Empathy

Developer

Learner

Relator

Get To Know Me

Kristian was born in Manchester, England, where early exposure to architecture came from watching his mom work in the field. After moving to Indiana at a young age, he discovered a passion for design through building Legos, drawing, and playing design games. That creative curiosity sparked an interest in architecture that deepened at Ball State University, where Kristian became fascinated by how people experience and are affected by the built environment. That curiosity continues to fuel Kristian’s love for design, especially as playful elements and creative thinking come together to shape meaningful spaces.

Inclusive design is at the heart of Kristian’s work. As someone with dwarfism, Kristian brings firsthand insight into the inequities of physical spaces and is committed to creating environments that welcome and uplift everyone. He thrives in the studio’s collaborative culture, flourishing in the iterative process of uncovering the “big idea” behind each project and translating it into details that enhance everyday life. Kristian’s favorite way to build connections with clients is by learning their stories, interests, and aspirations, so together, they can create spaces that foster lasting memories and positive change.

Outside of work, Kristian finds inspiration in hiking with his fiancé, enjoying coffee at Kismet Coffee & Bloom, cooking, and spending time with friends. He also volunteers at The Arc of East Central Iowa, serving individuals with disabilities—a cause close to his heart. This commitment reflects Kristian’s compassionate approach and dedication to creating impact beyond design. Whether in the studio or the community, Kristian strives to combine creativity with empathy, ensuring that every space tells a story and every interaction leaves a lasting impression.

Fun Fact

Kristian is an avid music lover with an ever-growing vinyl record collection of over 100 artists. Bands like Led Zeppelin, Sammy Rae and The Friends, The Beatles, and Silk Sonic are always on the turn-table!

Places That Inspire

Black and white photo of a mid-century modern house

THE MILLER HOUSE

EERO SAARINEN

Black and white image of a contemporary addition to a museum in Canada

ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM

DANIEL LIBESKIND

Black and white photo of the interior of a nondenominational chapel in Japan

SAYAMA FOREST CHAPEL

HIROSHI NAKAMURA