Exciting New Beginnings for DRAW Architecture in Kansas City
Kansas City is buzzing with news today as local architecture and design firm DRAW Architecture + Urban Design LLC has unveiled some exciting changes. The firm’s founder, Dominique Davison, recently made a compelling addition to her executive team by bringing on her husband, Robert Riccardi, as a new principal. This move is not just about enhancing leadership; it’s also a reflection of personal and professional growth for their family.
While enjoying a family beach vacation, Dominique found herself brainstorming ways to bolster her team. That’s when she realized the perfect candidate was right next to her. Robert Riccardi, who previously worked as a principal at the national design firm Multistudio for nearly two decades, has transitioned to DRAW this month and is ready for a fresh start. “We were looking at some of the bigger holes that we had in our team,” Dominique shared. “We needed some more business development and team leadership, and I said, ‘Hey, I know a guy who fits this bill.’”
The Entrepreneurial Spirit at DRAW
Step into DRAW, and you’ll find it’s a place buzzing with enthusiasm and the desire to craft something unique. Robert describes his move to DRAW as a chance to embrace a more “entrepreneurial” atmosphere. After years of leading a 150-person firm across multiple locations, Riccardi is excited about the challenge of working in a smaller, more agile setup. “It’s exciting for me to join a team that’s a little bit smaller, a little more nimble, and it’s growing,” he stated.
This transition coincides with a significant change for DRAW as well—using their entrepreneurial spirit to move into a new home. Dominique and Robert recently purchased a 25,000-square-foot building located at 1400 W. 13th St. in the vibrant West Bottoms area of Kansas City. After a yearlong renovation process, they have finally moved DRAW’s team onto the third floor of the historic structure.
Building a Community
Previously located in the Crossroads Arts District, where the firm spent seven years, the change of scenery has inspired new possibilities. Dominique and Robert have big plans for the new space. They’ve already secured two tenants for the building: a spa run by close friends and business partners on the first floor, and a photography studio set to occupy the second floor. “I’d love to see another artist studio or office space tenant fill out the remaining 5,000 square feet,” Davison shared with excitement.
Owning the new building not only serves as a physical expansion of DRAW’s workspace but also provides a new revenue generator for the firm. “It’s a great way to ensure sustainable growth,” Dominique explained, as the new space allows them to potentially double their team from 13 to 24 employees.
Embracing the Past While Looking to the Future
As the firm settles into its new space, they are keen on embracing the building’s history. Constructed in 1892, this former buggy factory has seen many transformations throughout its life. Instead of masking its history with modern finishes, DRAW has made a conscious effort to retain the building’s original features, including the gorgeous flooring. They are also planning to equip the roof with solar panels to enhance energy efficiency.
“We really believe in bringing new life to the existing, beautiful, historic architecture of Kansas City,” said Dominique. “That’s the greenest thing you can do is reuse an existing building.”
A Vision for Community Engagement
Beyond just a workspace, DRAW is looking to create a community hub where clients and local architects can come together. They are thrilled to host the American Institute of Architects Kansas City Cocktails & Conversations event in October. “Bringing in our client partners and being able to socialize is something we weren’t able to do in our former space,” remarked Riccardi.
With two dynamic leaders at the helm and a commitment to revitalizing their new home, DRAW Architecture + Urban Design LLC is not just shaping the skyline of Kansas City; they are cultivating a vibrant community spirit. The future looks bright for DRAW and the West Bottoms, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
