Architect / Project Manager / Designer
Karin was originally drawn to architecture for its seemingly broad scope in understanding systems and synergy at both a macro and micro level. She is fascinated by the patterns of relationships, behaviors, influences and motivations within the social, political, environmental and individual landscape and how these hinder, enhance or generally contribute towards an outcome. Ideologically, she is inspired by the many writings of futurist, architect and inventor, Buckminster Fuller.
A natural seeker, Karin was born asking “why.” Beyond just challenging the status quo she sought deeper understanding of self, others and community. From a young age, she was particularly adept at creating spaces and projects using found, recycled and natural objects. She appreciates design solutions that are original, playful, innovative, resourceful and responsible.
Karin is inspired daily by the enthusiasm, curiosity and playful spirit of her almost 7 year old son. These days, she is discovering a growing interest in urban homesteading with backyard chickens and gardening. When she is not spending time adventuring with her husband and son, she loves learning and embodying the mysteries and magic of the seen and unseen universe. Most recently she is fascinated by learning Bio Geometry, in addition to continued studies in astrology.
A natural seeker, Karin was born asking “why.” Beyond just challenging the status quo she sought deeper understanding of self, others and community. From a young age, she was particularly adept at creating spaces and projects using found, recycled and natural objects. She appreciates design solutions that are original, playful, innovative, resourceful and responsible.
Karin is inspired daily by the enthusiasm, curiosity and playful spirit of her almost 7 year old son. These days, she is discovering a growing interest in urban homesteading with backyard chickens and gardening. When she is not spending time adventuring with her husband and son, she loves learning and embodying the mysteries and magic of the seen and unseen universe. Most recently she is fascinated by learning Bio Geometry, in addition to continued studies in astrology.
All Staff
In 2003, we decided to fulfill a shared life’s dream and build a house together. As a couple, we, like many, are similar and different. My husband is practical, traditional and focused. I am creative, more risk oriented and flexible. We sought architectural partners who could relate to and manage our differences, as well as guide us, since we were new to building.
We found our architects in Kurt Reinkens, Managing Partner and Kristi Thompson, Architect at MBA. They listened carefully to our ideas, our architectural style preferences and to our lifestyle needs. They guided us regarding realistic expectations for our project. Then, they jointly conceived of and designed the prototype of our dream home.
At that juncture, project leadership, plans, and working drawings fell to Kristi.
For the 18 months it took to build our home, she ably interfaced with our builder, countless subcontractors and other interior, and landscape designers. She was aware of her role, patient, responsive and strong. She listened when appropriate, kept us informed and guided, when appropriate. She impressed us with her quiet interpersonal strength and was kind and sensitive when the job (as building a house always does) took its toll on our nerves.
I particularly appreciated her kindness in helping me with the project during a year when we both lost our fathers find our teenage son posed some challenges. She also encouraged his involvement in the design of “his” spaces.
Kristi combines rare creativity and practical management skills. She knows when to lead and when to step back and listen. She is also a fine person.
She is very talented. We recommend her highly.
-- Tom and Cathy Van Berkem
We found our architects in Kurt Reinkens, Managing Partner and Kristi Thompson, Architect at MBA. They listened carefully to our ideas, our architectural style preferences and to our lifestyle needs. They guided us regarding realistic expectations for our project. Then, they jointly conceived of and designed the prototype of our dream home.
At that juncture, project leadership, plans, and working drawings fell to Kristi.
For the 18 months it took to build our home, she ably interfaced with our builder, countless subcontractors and other interior, and landscape designers. She was aware of her role, patient, responsive and strong. She listened when appropriate, kept us informed and guided, when appropriate. She impressed us with her quiet interpersonal strength and was kind and sensitive when the job (as building a house always does) took its toll on our nerves.
I particularly appreciated her kindness in helping me with the project during a year when we both lost our fathers find our teenage son posed some challenges. She also encouraged his involvement in the design of “his” spaces.
Kristi combines rare creativity and practical management skills. She knows when to lead and when to step back and listen. She is also a fine person.
She is very talented. We recommend her highly.
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