Fun, Cooperative, Rewarding - Designer Byrens Kim Design Employee Review

BK is a high tech, highly engaged Architecture firm built on a solid foundation that is on the edge of transitioning from a small to a medium sized practice. BK does not suffer from the anxiety that many small firms may have to endure because of it's excellent reputation with it's return clientele and long history of successfully developing a diverse array of projects in the Bay Area and surrounding region. You should anticipate rolling up your sleeves and jumping right in here. You will be involved in every aspect of projects while assuming ownership - an invaluable opportunity not always structured-in at larger practices. Another excellent attribute is collaboration - we take time to share concept development ideas as a team. We are encouraged to share ideas, resources, and skill assets and do so freely. This fosters a non-egotistical, community environment that many designers require to develop and thrive. BK is more advanced technologically than most firms: we create and refine our projects utilizing hybrid 2D and 3D software, and engage in server-based, work-sharing environment. We convey and refine project information with our clients using the most advanced, adaptive and efficient means possible. We provide services that most others do not have the experience and/or technological capabilities to execute, such as complex building systems analysis and upgrades. Other bread and butter projects include ADA upgrades, Feasibility Analysis, and various tenant improvements such as Interior Architecture makeovers. Add to this a diverse blend of community development, new schools, health clinics and other creative endeavors. Every day is a new challenge with continuous opportunity for professional growth.

Nothing I can think of.

This was my first job in the field of architecture. I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to work for a company that placed so much emphasis on mentorship and inclusion. On day one my boss, the president of the company, took it upon himself to see that I was documenting IDP hours, studying for the ARE's, and being exposed to all aspects of the profession. I was able to participate in and learn about all of the phases of a project, from initial client meetings to final punchwalks. I also learned what it meant to be a representative of the firm in dealing with clients, contractors, and consultants. The design process at Byrens Kim Design Works is a very collaborative one. Designs and ideas with merit are valued regardless of whether they were submitted by the president, project manager, or designer. On several occasions office-wide charrettes would be held as a means of getting a fresh perspective on a design challenge. Above all, there is an undeniable sense of being valued as not just an employee but as a person.

This is a small family owned architecture firm with finite resources and because of this there is a limit on the scale and scope of a project that they can responsibly take on. There will be work to do that is not always flashy and exciting. If you aren’t able to maintain a consistent passion and design approach regardless of the apparent project “significance” then this firm is not for you.