Business Details
15 Years
experience
Award-Winning Residential Architects in Kansas City
Forward Design Architecture is a collaborative architectural practice based in Kansas City, dedicated to residential projects encompassing new construction and the restoration of mid-century modern homes with contemporary enhancements. Founded in 2011 by architect Christopher Fein, our team of design professionals is committed to delivering architecture of the highest quality, precision, and service. We approach each project by prioritizing the unique needs of clients, users, and locations, leveraging the distinctiveness of every situation to drive innovative design solutions. Our work has earned national recognition, appearing in publications such as Dwell, Architectural Digest, and Atomic Ranch.Beyond architectural design, we offer specialized services including life safety surveys, interior design, and furniture design. Our deep engagement with academic institutions as educators and critics enriches our practice with a research-driven ethos, fostering innovation while contributing to the development of future architects. We collaborate closely with clients to ensure their visions are realized through meticulous attention to detail and a culture of informed problem-solving.
Services
Residential Architecture
New Construction
Mid-Century Modern Restoration
Interior Design
Furniture Design
Building Assessments
Planning Services
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We offer over a decade of experience in residential architecture.
- Our award-winning designs are featured in national publications.
- We provide comprehensive services including interior and furniture design.
- Our team includes AIA and LEED-certified professionals.
- We maintain strong ties with leading architecture schools.
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- LEED AP
Services
Residential Architecture
Forward Design Architecture specializes in creating custom residential spaces that balance aesthetic innovation with functional living needs. Our approach emphasizes site-specific solutions, material integrity, and spatial harmony to craft homes that reflect each client's unique lifestyle while adhering to rigorous architectural standards.
Mid-Century Modern Restoration
We specialize in restoring mid-century modern homes, blending historical accuracy with contemporary upgrades. Our process involves meticulous research, material sourcing, and adaptive design to preserve architectural heritage while enhancing modern comfort and sustainability through energy-efficient systems and updated layouts.
Interior Design
Our interior design services focus on creating cohesive, functional environments that complement architectural intent. We integrate lighting, finishes, and custom furniture to enhance spatial flow and user experience, ensuring every detail aligns with the project's overall design philosophy and client requirements.
Furniture Design
Forward Design offers bespoke furniture solutions that extend architectural principles into functional art. Our designs prioritize ergonomic form, material authenticity, and craftsmanship, creating pieces that harmonize with the built environment while addressing specific client needs for residential or commercial spaces.
Building Assessments
We conduct comprehensive evaluations of existing structures to identify maintenance needs, safety compliance, and renovation potential. Our assessments include material condition reviews, code adherence checks, and life-safety surveys, providing actionable insights for preservation or adaptive reuse projects.
People
Christopher Fein
Founding Principal
Christopher Fein, AIA, LEED AP, founded Forward Design Architecture in 2011 after leading projects at renowned firms like Hammond Beeby Rupert Ainge. He teaches at Kansas State University and Yale, focusing on modernist preservation and furniture design. His expertise spans academic collaborations and award-winning residential projects nationwide.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We focus on residential architecture, including new construction, mid-century modern restoration, interior design, and custom furniture design.
Do you work on projects outside Kansas City?
Yes, while based in Kansas City, we've completed projects across the United States, including university commissions and private residences.
Are your architects certified professionals?
Our team includes AIA members and LEED-certified professionals with extensive academic and industry experience.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We integrate energy-efficient systems, material reuse strategies, and passive design principles to create environmentally responsible solutions tailored to each project's needs.
Can you assist with historic preservation projects?
Yes, we specialize in mid-century modern preservation and have conducted research grants for historic architecture surveys in collaboration with preservation organizations.
