KAI is proud to announce the appointment of Blaik Ritchie as Principal of Architecture at its Dallas-Fort Worth, TX office.
In his new role as Architectural Principal, Ritchie will be instrumental in shaping the future of KAI’s design practice, culture and business management. KAI’s Studio Leaders, Architectural CA/QA-QC and Senior Project Managers will report to Ritchie in this executive leadership role.
“Blaik Ritchie joining our KAI Design business as Principal of Architecture has quickly proven to be an impactful hire creating immediate positive results,” said KAI Managing Partner Brad Simmons, FAIA. “Blaik brings a well-rounded business background with a terrific balance of operations management, project management, technical knowledge and industry understanding. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of KAI’s design practice. I look forward to working closely with Blaik in this holistic national role as he drives our practice, culture and operations during this exciting growth evolution.”
An award-winning architect with over 30 years of experience, Ritchie has led projects throughout the United States, with a primary focus in Texas, as well as in Africa, Europe and South America. With extensive experience in business research, marketing and pursuit strategy, client engagement, relationship building, and project and studio leadership, Ritchie delivers exceptional value to clients through all phases of a project. His career has focused on civic, commercial, corporate and education project types.
“I am excited to join such a talented and dedicated group of individuals,” said Ritchie. “KAI’s mission of Transforming Communities not only aligns with my own personal values, but it represents the best and most rewarding aspect of what mindful design can achieve.”
Most recently, Ritchie was a Vice President at NELSON Worldwide, overseeing its mixed-use practice where he directed multiple studios across six offices nationwide. Prior to that, he focused on K-12 education projects as a Principal with Huckabee. As the Director of Operations at th+a Architects, he oversaw the firm’s education, retail, healthcare and commercial projects.
Ritchie’s extensive portfolio features several notable projects, including:
- Jerry R. Walker Middle School – Little Elm, TX
- Carroll Senior High Music Center – Southlake, TX
- Goodwater Montessori Charter School – Georgetown, TX
- Gateway Park Mixed Use – Jackson, MS
- Steam Theory Brewery – Dallas, TX
- Northwood Country Club – Dallas, TX
- Juanita Craft Recreation Center – Dallas, TX
- Lucerte Family Children’s Zoo – Dallas, TX
- Lancaster Fire Station No. 2 – Lancaster, TX
Ritchie has a Bachelor of Architecture in Design from Texas Tech University and he is a registered architect in Texas.