KQ Architects

Firm Profile: Origins and Philosophy

KQ Architects was established in 1978 by Hugh Knoell, AIA and Phillip Quidort, AIA with a vision to create architecture sensitive to people and place, transcending stylistic trends. In 1997, Sandra Evans Seward, ASID, joined as a principal, expanding the firm's offerings to include interior design. Terri Hanshew and Crystal Luong, AIA Associate, became partners in 2016, and Jack Leonard, AIA, joined as a partner in 2019. The firm's size is deliberately maintained to foster opportunity, learning, and accomplishment while staying effective.

At KQ Architects, our philosophy revolves around our clients being involved, invested, and expecting our collaboration to help them succeed. We aim to enhance their properties and the surrounding environment. Every project is unique and tailored to its specific context. We draw inspiration from natural settings, climate, and landscape. In urban or campus environments, we seek a suitable identity that reinforces the fabric. For existing structures, we emphasize their finest qualities and adapt them for new purposes. Our designs are contemporary in spirit while respecting the lessons of the past.

Key Principles: Sustainability and Community

Sustainability is a crucial aspect of our work. We believe in designing harmoniously with the climate and topography, minimizing site disturbance, promoting regional materials, conserving water resources, and creating healthy interiors with natural light and views. We see designing with the climate as more than just energy efficiency; it enriches architecture, providing a higher quality of life and a deeper enjoyment of place.

We take pride in our reputation for integrity and professionalism within the community and among planning, zoning, and building officials. Our commitment to community involvement includes active participation in AIA Arizona, the City of Phoenix, Arizona State University's architecture program, Habitat for Humanity, and Local First Arizona.

Services: Residential, Commercial, and Healthcare

KQ Architects specializes in custom residential and healthcare design, providing a range of services from planning and designing spaces to problem-solving with our clients. We create homes, offices, and buildings that are sensitive to the needs of the people who use them and the environments in which they are built.

In our Residential Projects, we design homes that are in tune with the people who inhabit them and the places they reside. We understand that a home is more than just a structure - it's a sanctuary, a place of comfort, and a reflection of one's personality and lifestyle.

Our Healthcare Projects focus on creating healing environments that cater to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of patients and staff. We design healthcare facilities that are functional, comfortable, and efficient, while also fostering a sense of calm and security.

In our Commercial Projects, we create buildings that are sensitive to the needs of the people who use them and the communities they serve. We design spaces that are functional, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing, promoting productivity and well-being.

At KQ Architects, we are passionate about creating architecture that is sensitive to people and place. We invite you to join us in this endeavor, as we look forward to working together to bring your vision to life.