In his new role, Lawrence is set to elevate the architectural studio to greater heights where he will manage the team of architects and designers; provide leadership and direction on projects; and collaborate with team members to ensure design projects are completed on time and within budget.
With more than 30 years of project management expertise in retail, mixed-use, multi-family residential, government, corporate, and transportation sectors, Lawrence has successfully navigated all phases of the project lifecycle from pre-design to construction administration. His proficiency extends to coordinating diverse consultant teams, and he possesses extensive skills in Building Information Modeling and Cloud Computing Systems.
Before joining KAI, Lawrence held the role of Senior Project Manager at MEL/ARCH Architectural Studio and served as a Senior Project Leader for GFF Architecture & Planning, both located in Fort Worth, Texas.
Among his diverse project portfolio, Lawrence contributed as both Project Manager and Project Architect for notable developments, including The Solomon mixed-use, multi-family development in Austin, Texas; The Ferro multi-family development in Plano, Texas; and the Arlington Life Shelter renovation and expansion in Arlington, Texas.
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“We are so pleased to have James to assume this pivotal next level leadership position for our KAI Design practice in our DFW operation. James has consistently proven his management skills, industry knowledge, and passion for a collaborative architecture and interiors studio environment,” KAI Managing Partner Brad Simmons said. “His balance of technical skills, design acumen, and culture development with his team have been best of class. KAI is fortunate to have a terrific internal talent base to promote people like James from within our ranks.”
Lawrence, who holds a Bachelor of Science in architecture from the University of Texas at Arlington, is an advocate of Public Interest Design and sustainable design practices through his membership in the Social Economic Environmental Design Network. He has served as Committee Chair for the American Institute of Architects Fort Worth Affordable Housing Committee, contributed 25 years as a volunteer Project Manager with Trinity Habitat for Humanity, and is a member of Strong Towns. Lawrence is also a LEED Accredited Professional and a registered Architect in Texas and Washington.
KAI Enterprises is a national design and build firm providing delivery-oriented building solutions with a diverse portfolio of experience, in-house multi-discipline professionals, and expertise in both design and construction delivery. Founded in 1980, KAI has grown into one of the largest minority-owned firms in the AEC industry. For more than 40 years, KAI has transformed communities through its expertise in residential, commercial, K-12, higher education, health care, science and technology, aviation, mobility, sports and entertainment, government, water, and community-focused projects. KAI Enterprises is comprised of four distinct business units — KAI Design, KAI Engineering, KAI Build, and KAI 360 Construction Services.
