Business Details
42 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architecture & Engineering Solutions
Founded in 1984, JKAE has established itself as a leading architectural and engineering firm with 40 years of expertise in architecture, interior design, and engineering. Our team operates across Auburn, Truckee-Tahoe, Reno, and San Jose, delivering personalized, hands-on services rooted in a philosophy of 'People + Purpose + Design + Innovation.' We specialize in creating inclusive environments that enrich the human experience through our core process of Imagine, Design, and Build. Our work spans public and private sectors, with a focus on community-based planning, sustainable design, and high-altitude engineering. Recognized nationally with awards such as the Design-Build Architect of the Year and multiple DBIA accolades, we combine cutting-edge technology with a client-centric approach.Our multidisciplinary team collaborates seamlessly across architecture, civil engineering, structural engineering, and surveying to deliver turnkey solutions. We prioritize stakeholder engagement, environmental responsibility, and technical excellence in every project, from educational facilities to resort developments. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our use of advanced tools like BIM, 3D scanning, and aerial drones to ensure precision and safety. With a legacy of over 160 awards, we continue to push boundaries while maintaining the personal, passionate service that defines our firm.
Services
Architecture
Civil Engineering
Interior Design
Surveying
Design-Build
Structural Engineering
Community Planning
Sustainable Design
High-Altitude Engineering
Graphic Communication
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of experience in architecture and engineering with a hands-on approach.
- Our DBIA-certified professionals deliver cost-effective, on-schedule design-build projects.
- We specialize in high-altitude and wildfire-resistant design for challenging environments.
- Our team uses cutting-edge technology like BIM and 3D scanning for precision and safety.
- We hold 160+ national awards for architectural excellence and community impact.
Associations and certifications
- Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA)
Services
Architecture
JKAE's architecture services focus on creating inclusive environments that enrich human experiences. We combine 40+ years of expertise with a hands-on approach to deliver innovative solutions for educational, civic, and private sectors. Our work emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic excellence across diverse projects from schools to resort developments.
Civil Engineering
Our civil engineering division specializes in land entitlement and high-altitude engineering solutions. With decades of experience in the Sierra region, we provide site planning, stormwater management, and environmental compliance services. Our team excels in navigating complex permitting processes while prioritizing sustainability and community needs.
Design-Build
As DBIA-certified professionals, we deliver integrated design-build solutions that streamline project delivery. Our approach ensures cost efficiency, schedule adherence, and added-value solutions through collaboration with quality builders. This method guarantees cohesive execution from concept to completion for educational, civic, and private sector clients.
Surveying
JKAE's surveying services utilize cutting-edge technology for accurate site data collection. Our team employs 3D scanning, drones, and GPS systems to support informed decision-making and risk mitigation. We provide boundary analysis, topographic mapping, and construction layout services that enhance project safety and workflow efficiency.
Community Planning
With 40 years of experience in community-based planning, we create environments that reflect local values and needs. Our process emphasizes stakeholder engagement to develop sustainable master plans, resort destinations, and educational campuses that enhance quality of life while balancing environmental considerations.
People
Derek Labrecque
Partner
Derek Labrecque brings decades of architectural expertise to JKAE, leading innovative design projects that reflect the firm's commitment to quality and community impact.
Chris Vicencio
Partner
Chris Vicencio contributes extensive experience in engineering solutions, focusing on structural integrity and innovative design approaches that align with JKAE's vision of enriching human experiences through architecture.
Ken Anderson
Partner
Ken Anderson specializes in sustainable design practices, bringing technical expertise and creative problem-solving to JKAE's projects while maintaining the firm's commitment to environmental responsibility.
Jordan Knighton
Principal
Jordan Knighton leads architectural initiatives with a focus on community engagement, ensuring designs reflect both client needs and the cultural context of project locations.
Carla Sammis
Principal, Senior Civil Engineer
Carla Sammis directs civil engineering projects with expertise in land development and environmental compliance, ensuring technical excellence while maintaining JKAE's client-centric approach to community planning.
Questions
What types of projects does JKAE specialize in?
We specialize in architecture, civil engineering, and design-build projects for educational facilities, civic spaces, resorts, and sustainable developments in high-altitude environments.
How long has JKAE been in business?
JKAE has been delivering architectural and engineering solutions since 1984, with 40+ years of experience in the industry.
What makes JKAE different from other firms?
Our hands-on approach, DBIA certification, expertise in high-altitude design, and commitment to using cutting-edge technology set us apart in delivering client-focused solutions.
Do you work outside California and Nevada?
While we focus on California and Northern Nevada, our expertise in high-altitude design allows us to tackle projects in similar environments beyond our primary service areas.
What awards has JKAE received?
We've earned 160+ national awards including Design-Build Architect of the Year and multiple DBIA accolades for our architectural excellence and community impact.
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