Our
TEAM
WAI
TEAM
WAI
TEAM
WAI is a mid-size architectural firm located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Our project breadth ranges from small renovations to large scale construction projects. Big or small, we provide design solutions authentic to the client's goals with opportunites for creative, sustainable and pleasing environments.
WHO WE ARE
The history of WAI begins in 1987 when Julie Wellner founded the firm. Since then she has has been certified as WBE/DBE with Kansas City and the state of Missouri.
JULIE WELLNER
PRINCIPAL, AIA, NCARB
Julie has been the fearless leader of WAI for 27 years. She oversees all projects to keep the schedule & goals on course and our client's needs in mind. Her background consists of architecture, engineering and environmental design which is conducive when coordinating and designing projects as a whole.
Oh! And did someone mention WINE? Cabernet? Chardonnay? Yes, she'll have one........or maybe two.
Oh! And did someone mention WINE? Cabernet? Chardonnay? Yes, she'll have one........or maybe two.
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MARGARET SMITH
JASON BARKER
ANN PLAUTZ
MIKE BERRYMAN
ARCHITECT, LEED AP
If we don't feel like walking the 20 feet to our code book reference library, we just ask Margaret! Our walking encyclopedia has been practicing architecture for nearly 30 years and excels at details, coordination and joke telling. The next time you see her, ask her to tell the joke about moth balls.
ARCHITECT, AIA, LEED AP
Jason wears many hats in our office. If you need design ideas, technical support, construction details or Kansas City facts, he's your guy! And if he’s not at his desk, look for him near the WAI server where he’s finding solutions for questions like “why isn’t the internet working?” or “what happened to that email?”.
ARCHITECT, LEED AP
Ann is her name and construction management is her game. When she's not on a project site you might find her checking off criteria on a LEED checklist. If you happen to be visiting our office and suddenly hear high-pitched chipmunk voices, don’t run, it’s just Ann’s ringtone and it will be over shortly!
ARCHITECT, AIA
There have been several long periods of time where Mike's office was located at the airport helping with all of our KCI projects. His knowledge of our local complex terminals and baggage systems is unsurpassed. Is this why he has the cleanest and most organized desk in the office? Maybe so!
ARCHITECT, LEED AP
Wondering if Kansas City International Airport will ever get a new terminal? Matt has been participating on the planning team for a LONG time. Hopefully someday it will come to fruition. In the meantime, this Wildcat makes sure his purple stands out in the sea of Jayhawks in our office.
INTERIOR DESIGNER
Just ask our color specialist about what hue is best for your project. After she clears off her desk (or the adjacent one) filled with hundreds of material samples, she'll tell you! When Alissa's not practicing interior design she might be volunteering at the animal shelter or caring for one of her many pets & foster animals.
INTERN ARCHITECT, LEED AP
We have deemed Tony our quiet intellect. From obscure historical facts, beer making tutorials, to Revit how-to's, he's got an answer for nearly everything, you just have to ask! His knowledge of industry programs and design details is well-rounded and beneficial to our team.
INTERN ARCHITECT, LEED AP
There's one in every group, the sarcastic comic. That's Lindsey, and when she's not lightening the mood in our office she's making sure our Revit work habits are done correctly and properly. Currently she's studying for her next architectural exam so she can soon be licensed.
INTERN ARCHITECT
Brent is our small project specialist. He has designed for clients ranging from the KC Zoo, to Sporting KC. When Brent isn't working on designing a soccer related facility here in the office, you might find him riding his motorcycle to watch his teenage son play soccer on the field.
INTERN ARCHITECT
Shahad is the newest and youngest member of WAI. She's got a spark for thinking outside the box and is ready to tackle any project. Her excitement for all things design is contagious and we love that!
BUSINESS & MARKETING
Questions about marketing, health insurance or why our elevator isn't working AGAIN? Just ask Debbie! She's been keeping the behind the scenes tasks in order for 15 years. Our resident "birthday fairy" always makes sure we have the cake of our choosing on our special day. POOF! Enjoy those calories!
ADMINISTRATIVE ASST.
Who's that helpful & friendly smile when you walk in our door? It's Lori! When she's not busy greeting visitors she's usually helping us with specifications or making sure we all have our favorite pens. Don't make her made because she's the one who makes sure our bottomless M&M bowl is always filled!
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