I love residential architecture because of the intense personal relationship that we develop with our clients. It turns a project from a "house" into a "home". I don't have a single style I prefer, I always say, "Don't start with a style, end with one". One of my passions in designing homes is how they perform over time, and that covers a LOT of issues: from maintenance to energy use and material impact, to how our clients are able to age in the home. I resist the label "green" - what does it really mean, it's too easy to slap on the box. We're here to stay, Sandpoint is our home, and as Archibald Tuttle once said, "We're all in it together, kid". Quality of design and construction * Meeting the budget * Creating a fun, exciting place to call home Vitruvius knew it 600 years ago: "Firmness, Commodity and Delight"
Upon graduating in 2005 from Washington State University, I went to work in Spokane Washington with a passion for creative design and sustainable construction solutions. I have been involved in the design and execution of various civic/recreational projects for Gonzaga University, Eastern Washington University and the YMCA of the Inland Northwest. During this time I also gained experience working within the Assisted Living and Housing industry within the region. In 2007 I designed my own custom home in Chattaroy, WA and acted as General Contractor for the completion of the project. This began my passion for residential design and the ability to positively influence people's lives. In 2010 I made the move to the architecture community of Sandpoint, Idaho. We are currently working on custom residential / vacation properties throughout the Pacific Northwest. My experience has led me to be a part of various projects ranging in size and scope. I have a genuine enthusiasm for creative Architecture / construction solutions and how people can be influenced on a daily basis.
Lance spent four years in the US Coast Guard as a Cutter Rescue Swimmer and Engineer before studying architecture at the B.A.C. He had the unique opportunity to work on award winning and historic projects in the Greater Boston Area as a drafter, architectural designer and Job Captain. He also worked in the A&E department of the Massachusetts Port Authority and Logan International Airport as an intern Architect concentrating on airport structures, bridges and port buildings. Lance has managed lumber yards and construction supply companies in Florida, Georgia and Texas providing building materials for some of the country’s largest home builders. He Joined SOK Design Studios in 2017 and lives in the Sandpoint area with his wife and three sons.
John has been designing custom projects for more than 20 years. He studied architecture, wood construction and design, and graduated from the U of I in 1995. John spent many years drawing log and conventionally framed homes, as well as engineered trusses before joining SOK in 2019. He enjoys helping clients integrate creativity, uniqueness and functionality in their projects. John lives in Bonners Ferry, ID with his wife and two daughters. In his spare time, he enjoys working on projects in his shop, traveling and spending time with his family.
As a child, Rob Wiese dreamed of racing cars. However, his mom wasn't too thrilled about the ambitious idea. So, when he showed interest and talent in drawing and architecture, she fully embraced the idea and began checking out Frank Lloyd Wright books at the library.
His passion for creating buildings led Rob to Washington State University, where he received an undergrad and graduate degree in architecture. As a licensed architect with 17 years of industry experience, Rob is excited to join the SOK design studio team.
Rob spent most of his career working on large-scale projects, including higher education, K-12 schools, and government buildings worldwide. He’ll now use his unique skill set to create dream homes for clients around the Pacific Northwest.
When he's not at work, Rob enjoys spending time with his wife, Lisa, and their beautiful baby girl, Darla.
As a child, Zach Hanson vividly remembers being drawn to architecture and how space affected his feelings. His dad was a manufacturing engineer, so he moved a lot and experienced a variety of homes and spaces. This unique childhood inspired his passion for architecture.
A few years ago, Zach received a degree in Architecture Technology. Now, Zach is an Architectural Technologist with SOK design studio. Zach brings design ideas to life through several architecture design computer programs. This process allows clients to virtually see and walk through their custom home before the foundation is poured.
Zach’s favorite part of the job is being creative and helping clients envision their dream homes. When he’s not at work, you’ll find Zach shredding on his snowboard at Schweitzer Mountain, fishing, camping, and spending time with friends and family.
After retiring from architecture in 2015, Jon and his wife, Karen, moved south to warmer weather. Jon now spends his days molding clay, welding sculptures, and studying materials and methods. During a recent art show, his work quickly sold out. After 40 years of designing homes for clients, Jon appreciates making art simply for himself. Jon and Karen make the trek to North Idaho a few times a year to visit grandkids and the SOK office. Jon describes retirement as a wonderful life, where every day is Saturday.
Annie is an Emmy award-winning storyteller with a passion for promoting our work both regionally and globally. Annie joins SOK after spending more than 15 years in the TV news business as a reporter and anchor across the Pacific Northwest, including in Spokane and Anchorage, AK. When she’s not working, you’ll find her remodeling her own home with her husband, who is an architect, and spending time with her three beautiful and energetic kids.
Bryan works part time for SOK doing graphic design and maintaining the website. In his day job he is the Director of Design & Development at a local Spokane company, Virtual Education Software, inc. When he is not at a computer, he likes to get outside with his wife and two daughters.