Area native returns home and joins ka

Cleveland, OH (August 3, 2005) Equipped with a formula for success consisting of communication, teamwork, and a good set of drawings, Joseph Richvalsky joins ka as a senior project designer and considers himself "home."

After spending almost 15 years living and working in New York City, Richvalsky decided to come back to Cleveland, the city where he grew up.  Before leaving the city that never sleeps, Richvalsky worked at a handful of design and architecture firms, including Rockwellgroup and, most recently, Helpern Architects.  Upon his arrival back in Cleveland, Richvalsky spent some time at Design Collective, Inc.

Throughout his career, he has worked on many levels from production staff to designer.  Some notable projects Richvalsky has been involved with include the award-winning W Hotel on Lexington Avenue in New York City, Columbia University's Dean and administrative offices, and Mohegan Sun Casino and retail mall in Uncasville, Connecticut.  His impressive project list also includes restaurants, high-end residential and condominiums, and corporate offices.  

"It feels good to be back in Cleveland doing what I love," Richvalsky says.  "This city has a lot to offer and I'm proud to be part of it and working at ka will offer me the opportunities to continue to work on a variety of project types."

In his new role, Richvalsky will work towards the successful execution of project design, co-managing projects through design development along with the studio leader.  At the root of all his work will be his skills in communicating design intent through hand drawings and perspective sketches and his understanding of project management and construction administration.

Prior to launching his career, Richvalsky earned his bachelor's of arts degree in architecture from the University of Cincinnati.  He has devoted his time and energy to Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital's Gingerbread House Event and is also a member of The Avon Historical Society.

About ka

ka is a national, award-winning design firm providing architecture, planning, landscape architecture, environmental graphics, and interior design services to commercial developers and corporate clients. For more than four decades, the firm has brought a holistic, client-centric focus to projects in the built environment, resulting in enduring architecture. To learn more, visit www.kainc.com.